Stunning and statement-y. Amrapali Jaipur’s jewellery reminds one of the famous line from a TV commercial — ‘neighbour’s envy owner’s pride’. Tarang Arora, creative director, Amrapali Jewels, tells us the secret behind the blend of the heritage and the modern that creates magical drama.

In this four-decade journey, Amrapali has redefined heritage jewellery for the contemporary woman. What is pure heritage in Amrapali’s casket?

At Amrapali we have always believed in keeping the traditions alive in our jewellery. We have redefined jewellery in a manner which represents the traditions and heritage of our country.

Why will heritage jewellery always be a classic?

It will always be a classic because heritage jewellery represents the traditions, the tangible and intangible aspects of our culture. It is something which will remain with us forever and also have recall value.

Can you take us back in time when Amrapali started. What did the initial designs draw inspirations from?

Amrapali was started by my dad and uncle (Rajiv Arora and Rajesh Ajmera) and back then they use to travel across the country for inspiration, so our main source of inspiration would be the different tribes of India.

What have been the go-to in terms of inspiration? What is the research like?

Our inspiration has always been the rich cultural land of India, the flora and fauna, the art and architecture and also from the different tribes of India.
We also have a museum, called the Amrapali Museum. It is private collection of Indian tribal jewellery collected by the founders of the brand, so now Amrapali Museum is our go-to place for inspiration, it is where our research begins.

Personally, do you have a favourite era when the design movement flourished in India or across the world?

The Mughal era in India, they have popularised kundan jewellery. Meenakari (enamelling) also flourished during the same era, the intricate floral meenakari was done on both the sides of the piece; it is something that we all are still amazed to look at.

What have been the iconic designs over the years?

For us, it’s the Amrapali Lotus collection. Lotus is a timeless symbol of beauty and eternity. As a symbol in Indian culture and mythology, the lotus is found throughout Hindu scriptures. The iconic Lotus is a signature form used by Amrapali in its jewellery. With rubies, diamonds, gold and silver — this collection has been inspired from our unique and special brand mark and carries the true essence of Amrapali.

What would you pin the versatility of heritage jewellery on?

It is the craft! Heritage jewellery is crafted in such a way that it looks equally good with a T-shirt or a sari. It is rooted in culture yet has a modern outlook, which makes these pieces versatile and timeless.

Heritage jewellery is crafted in such a way that it looks equally good with a T-shirt or a sari. It is rooted in culture yet has a modern outlook, which makes these pieces versatile and timeless

Tarang Arora, creative director, Amrapali Jewels

What kind of design interventions have been made to render it a modern language?

Jewels from the house of Amrapali shaped in elegant constituents personify the heritage of India with a modern eclectic twist. We are making multifunctional, detachable pieces so people can wear the whole thing together or use the same in different versions for other occasions.

What kind of heritage jewels are great for a modern wedding?

I think a fusion of jadau jewellery in contemporary styles would be great for a modern wedding, as it would have the heritage feel as well as the modern fusion twist.

What are timeless heritage pieces to possess?

A classic pearl and diamond choker. A nice diamond cuff or a gold bangle and statement earrings like chaandbalis or jhumkis.