Ahilya – For The Woman Of Today

For the bohemian look, I styled this lotus motif silver haar (long necklace) centered with a hand-painted motif, surrounded with red and green glass work over a black ensemble. Available on Velvetcase.com

A rainy afternoon in Mumbai, but work never stops for Mumbaikars. I caught up with Kajal Jain, Founder and Creative Head of Ahilya Jewels who also happens to showcase her jewellery on Velvetcase. Rain, coffee and a stimulating discussion about jewellery, I must say it was an afternoon well spent.

For the woman who loves to wear kurtas, here’s a bold silver tribal necklace styled with a plain white hand embroidered lucknowi kurta. Available on Velvetcase.com

StylePrer (SP) : What is the significance of the name ‘Ahilya’ ?
Kajal Jain (KJ) : Ahilya means “perfect” in Sanskrit.

In one line she would describe her collection as soaked in tradition with a contemporary twist.
Despite being married to a diamantaire, Kajal decided to make her mark in silver jewellery, simply because of her love for the metal. While she was pursuing high school and university, she would enjoy wearing silver jewellery and often would not get the variety and designs that catered to her taste. That was the inception of “Ahilya” so she could venture into making beautiful pieces herself.

Pink, blue and white enamel earrings with pearl drops for my occasion or work wear look. Available on Velvetcase.com

SP : What are the various product categories in Ahilya?
KJ : In all there are 11 product categories. Besides the usual pendant, earring, necklace, ring; we will be adding a range of baju bandhs, anklets, maangteeka too.

For the corporate look, I chose a lotus motif necklace along with two filigree rings over a black shirt, black pants and a white jacket. Jewelry available on Velvetcase.com

PM : What are the inspirations for your collection?
KJ :  There are many collections under Ahilya, one of them being a range inspired from the architecture and design elements of southern India. Another collection being inspired from paintings and centered with handpainted motifs. Next up is the Coin collection, based on the coins of olden days.

An interesting idea indeed! Besides these, Kajal also has a collections inspired from glass and mother of pearl. I found the Filigree collection very impressive. It draws inspiration from the spanish, south mediterranean and central european design aesthetics. Kajal’s product range has been a beautiful confluence of art from different parts of the world.

I often wear ethic, to style my look I chose layers of silver bangles and kadas that are gold plated and studded with gemstones, contrasting the look with a silver ring. Jewelry available on Velvetcase.com

SP: Do you cater jewellery for men?
KJ : We have products ranging from a Trishul kada, unisex bracelets and also Ganesha rings. And of course the popular categories being chains and bracelets.

It was a pleasant surprise to know that she has a high number of footfall and interest shown by men in silver jewellery as men India are hesitant to wear jewellery.

Gold plated silver earrings centered with a coin and filigree from the coin collection. Available on Velvetcase.com

SP: What made you go the E-commerce way?
KJ: For approaching large audience, digital media is a must. It ensures a wide reach and has enabled us to connect with target customers not only across India but globally. Although the online space is riddled with challenges, it is worth the effort.

All work and no play makes me a dull girl. Playing my my boho look with a silver knuckle ring along with a spiral filigree ring. Available on Velvetcase.com

SP: Tell about the philosophy behind the brand name ‘Ahilya’ ?
KJ: The brand name personifies a woman who is very sure of herself, super confident, well-travelled and a fusion of Indian ethos and modernity. 

Quality is paramount to Kajal. According to her, they provide the highest purity in silver. She further states that, Ahilya is the only brand that hallmarks every piece and gives authenticity certification.

In conversation with Mrs Kajal Jain, adorning our favourite hand painted and colored glass haar (long necklace) with traditional indian motifs. Jewellery available on Velvetcase.com

SP: What made you list your jewellery on Velvetcase?
KJ: Being present on Velvetcase was a part of my plan for an online presence. It is a very good market place, has great visuals and Velvetcase caters to the same target audience as Ahilya. I am very happy to partner with Velvetcase.

StylePrer feels, when we think jewellery – we immediately think about diamond, gold or jadau jewellery. However people like Kajal are bringing out the lost charm of silver jewellery in the most creative manner. So people, there is another viable addition to your jewellery and accessory casket! Silver is back and how! Ahilya jewellery is available on Ahilya On Velvetcase