Kishandas & Co. take us through what makes jewellery into heirlooms and more...
Jewellery is more than just another piece you adorn to complement your ensemble. Often it is an emotion, a long-forgotten memory; more than anything, it is an invaluable keepsake. This defines heirlooms—something Kishan Das & Co. has been known for for many decades.
With their roots in Hyderabad that date back 150 years, Kishandas and Co. have had a solid roster of clients since they began their journey. This roster included the Nizams and today the brand has attuned itself to fit the demands and changing times.
In a conversation ahead with Pratiksha Prashant, Creative Director, Kishandas & Co she talks about her dedication towards making jewellery that is synonymous with quality and honours the traditional Indian jewellery-making techniques.
Manifest: How did you become a jeweller?
Pratiksha Prashant: Kishan Das and Co. is our family business, passed down through generations from father to son, and has always extended beyond just selling jewellery. Today, even the women in our family are actively involved in running the business.
M: And who are the women who wear your jewellery like?
PP: The woman who wears our jewellery is surely well-versed in the world of art. She is someone who understands the value of an heirloom, seeks perfection in design and at the same time believes in the beauty of jewellery. She wants to wear a traditional piece, even with modern ensembles yet cherishes history and heritage.
M: If you had to invest in one heirloom piece what would it be?
PP: If I had to invest in one heirloom piece, it would undoubtedly be a Satlada. It is a traditional seven-layered necklace that epitomises opulence, heritage, and timeless beauty. Investing in a Satladaa means embracing a piece of history. Created with precision, it features seven strands of pearls, gold, and precious gemstones. This intricate jewellery reflects the grandeur and rich cultural heritage of Indian royalty, tracing its origins back to the lavish taste of the Nizams of Hyderabad.
M: What makes your jewellery so precious that they often turn into heirlooms?
PP: Our dedication to heritage techniques, such as the exclusive and timeless pieces made in Jadau or Pacchi settings is what makes the difference. We also continuously choose to experiment with uncut diamonds in open settings, ensuring that each piece is crafted with traditional methods and premium materials.
This commitment to quality not only enhances the beauty of our jewellery but also imbues it with cultural and familial significance. As a result, our pieces are cherished for their beauty and the stories they carry…naturally becoming heirlooms passed down through generations.
M: What are you looking forward to at the FDCI Manifest Wedding Weekend?
PP: I’m excited to offer our carefully chosen line of classic bridal and wedding jewellery at FDCI Manifest Wedding Weekend as a heritage jewellery business. Engaging with brides-to-be and their families and offering them individualised consultations and professional support to help them find jewellery that not only makes a lasting addition to their special day but also becomes treasured heirlooms excites me. This occasion is the ideal venue for showcasing our heritage of producing elegant, yet culturally-rich, contemporary works. We hope each client discovers jewellery that speaks to their unique story and represents our unwavering commitment.
M: Lastly, who would you love to see wear one of your pieces?
PP: “I would love to see our pieces on Maharani Radhika Raje Gaekwad of Baroda, Waheeda Rehman, Tripti Dimri, Sudha Reddy and Sonal Mansingh.”
Kishandas and Co. is going to showcase at the FDCI Manifest Wedding Weekend. It’s an invite-only event which will be held at the Taj Palace, New Delhi, on August 3-4, 2024. For an invitation, register here or reach out at fmww@rpsg.in
With five years of experience in both print and digital mediums, Shambhavi is the Features Editor covering luxury, jewellery, fashion and beauty. When not writing, you'll find her grooving to music or feeding cats. View Profile
