By Preeta Agarwal in New Delhi
Yash Agarwal is the creative force behind renowned Indian jeweller Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas, and his love for uncut diamonds has inspired yet another stunning kundan polki collection called Aks - The Reflection of Time.
As time moves on, the memories of intriguing tales are diluted and slowly fade in our recollections. Aks was conceived by Agarwal to rekindle the memories of India's grandiose past with techniques like engraving, etching, combining pavé-set diamonds with kundan polki and many others.
The expression "Aks" means reflection, and this jewellery range is a wonderful contemplation of the past and its significance, capturing the spirit of various cultures of bygone eras. Engraved text on gold brings back the majesty of imperial dynasties and civilisations, while the stunning kundan polki work evokes memories of the flamboyant Mughal and Rajput eras. Some creations are inspired by vintage coins, which have played the role of harbingers of messages India's past.
The collection boasts beaded sapphires, rubies, pearls, emeralds and large sizes of polkis (uncut diamonds) studded in necklaces, chandelier earrings, cocktail rings, hathphool (hand ornaments), hair accessories and brooches. Square medallion pendants, talisman motifs - believed to protect the wearer - and peacocks, the royal bird of India, were all featured in a catwalk show held in Mumbai last July.
One of the stunners on the ramp was the heavy coin Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas bangle, which was inspired by the ancient coin jewellery of medieval India. Created in yellow gold, the bangle is lavishly covered with flat and full-cut diamonds and emerald beads together with delicate filigree work to highlight its beauty. Glittering collars flowed into bibs that almost touched the waist, while tiny jhumkis (tassels) dangled seductively on necklaces, earrings and armlets.
Recently launched at the India International Jewellery Week 2014, in a setting decorated with intricate mosaic arches, Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas' new Aks jewels transport the audience to an era of beauty and grandeur, brought forward into the 21st century by Indian film actress Parineeti Chopra.
