Heirloom jewels, celeb style

Jewellery designer Farah Khan, with roots in Bollywood, talks to Abhilasha Ojha about her new collection inspired by nature

Your new collection was launched recently. What was the idea behind it?
Recession. The economic slowdown has resulted in a setback in jewellery buying. So, this time, I have created pieces where the prices start at Rs 50,000. This is a stark contrast to my earlier collections where the cost started from Rs 2 lakh.

The theme of this collection is is nature. Do you really see jewellery in nature?
If I see anything beautiful, I get inspired by it. When I see a flower, I immediately start imagining diamonds and gemstones around it. Snakes, for example, also have a fascinating and interesting form. I thought of how it can inspire jewellery pieces and that’s why I tried to do this in my collection this time. Designing jewellery is not a profession, it’s a passion. In fact, I find it so hard to part with my collections that I invariably end up keeping a piece or two for myself! Just the thought that jewellery is handed down generations and outlives the wearer is amazing.

Which piece of jewellery is your absolute favourite?
It has to be my wedding set in diamonds and exquisite pearls. It’s reminiscent of the Mughal era. In fact, in my childhood days I was a complete tomboy and couldn’t tell a ruby from an emerald. I still remember the times when my mother used to bring out her sets and show them to me and my sister Suzanne, and very sweetly remark, Farah, this set is for you, and Suzanne, this one is for you. I didn’t understand the fuss about jewellery back then but today, when I look at my personal collection, there are so many emotions attached to it. Each piece of jewellery is a celebration of a precious moment.

What’s your personal style while wearing jewellery?
I like bigger pieces but instead of wearing a complete ensemble I prefer to wear either earrings or just a neck piece.

Is it tough to look after heirloom jewellery?
You must keep jewellery in a suede box, get it serviced once a year from your jeweller, clean with toothpaste and old brush. Never spray perfume after wearing jewellery.