Galleria 2004

Heralding seven women who are changing the face of jewellery design in India. Forget your babus these are the babes with baubles!

Queenie Dhody
Starting up: “I am into jewellery designing simply because I’ve always been passionate about it,” fires off Queenie. Though her transition as a professional jewellery designer occurred only in September 2003, Queenie has been designing unique pieces for the last 16-17 years. “Since I had already done a professional course in gemmology, it was easy for me to communicate to the karigars the exact patterns that I was looking for,” explains the lady. Her line called ‘Jewels of Queenie’ therefore came at a time when she felt that she had enough time to devote to her job. “It all fell into my lap at the right time,” she says. “I’ve worked all my life...from being a model to becoming a home-manager to starting a business...all of it happened very naturally,” claims Queenie.

Career highlights: “Since my collection is very new, I wouldn’t say I have had any major milestones as such. But I have done a few exhibitions,” the ‘Page 3’ favourite humbly declares. Queenie’s first show took place in October last year in Mumbai followed by one in Delhi. She displayed her range in Los Angeles, and is also is in the process of starting a “small place” to showcase her work in Delhi very soon.

Signature look: “My look projects different moods of versatile personalities,” she clarifies. Ranging from conservative wear to fun and funky pieces, Queenie’s collection is varied. However, her classic look would be that of a ruby and rose-cut diamonds.

Price range: Rs. 20,000 onwards.

Season’s must-haves: Jewellery is still not minimalist if you go by current trends. Long earrings and big rings are in and pink is reigning this season. However, Queenie makes it a point to mention that one must never over-do where it comes to wearing jewellery. “If too much of it is worn, it mars the significance of what you’re wearing. Instead it’s always better to wear a single piece which merits attention and will stand out”.

Timeless buy: Diamond solitaires or emerald neckwear is timeless according to her.

Golden words: When one is going jewellery shopping, the budget must be kept in mind according to Queenie. In case of high-end purchase, one should always go for a timeless artefact but if the budget is economical, then it should be invested in trendy jewellery.

- Aindrila Mitra