Silver is the new gold

After drawing inspiration from the Ottaman and Cyprus, couture and revivalist jeweller Roopa Vohra has turned to Mughal architecture. In her recent collection, lattice work with uncut diamonds, spinal rubies and antique pearl drops combine to recreate the splendour of Mughal architecture. Roopa’s exotic couture collection is in the city to enthral jewellery connoisseurs. From stunning bridal couture sets to chandelier earrings and heavily embellished neckpieces, Vohra’s jewellery is a riot of colours, glitter and sparkle. These tradition-inspired jewels feature designs that work for women of all age groups, Vohra says. “Jewellery is contemporary - a synthesis of the old and new with an innovative touch,” she asserts.Though Vohra’s collection employs precious stones and gold in a big way, she believes silver is the new gold. “Silver is picking up quickly now. In fact, we have an exclusive silver line for youngsters.”With such variety in her oeuvre it is little wonder that celebrities, both in India and abroad, often flaunt her jewellery at red carpet events. The stunning designs may burn quite a big hole in your pocket, but as Vohra says, “Most of my pieces are handmade and take anywhere between eight months and two-and-a-half years to create. The price you pay is for the effort put in by the artisans.”Her collection stands out for the use of precious stones, unique textures and contemporary motifs. “We experiment and create new designs from ancient art forms. For instance, we have introduced jali work with uncut diamonds. It’s a one-of-a-kind creation and we have tried replicating fine filigree designs on gold sheet with uncut diamonds on it. It took nearly five years to create 15 pieces in this line.”In her Thewa collection, each piece has a story to tell. The collection is a unique mix of gold and kundan to create bird and animal forms. Vohra usually embellishes her jewellery with a variety of precious stones like sapphire, rubies and corals. Her personal favourites, though, are compressed gems and diamonds. Roopa Vohra’s collection is being showcased in the city today at Taj Connemara, from 11 am.