This Diwali, jewellery embraces a fresh perspective — focusing more on expression than excess. From elephant-inspired earrings and lotus statement hand chokers to adaptable designs that transition from heavy to light, the season highlights individuality and purpose. We consulted four top designers and jewellers to uncover the standout trends and smart styling tips shaping the 2025 Diwali jewellery scene.
The Brooch, Choker, and Mathapati
Jewellery is transcending tradition to become a genuine style statement. Shoppers are opting for pieces that blend artistry and intent — like lightweight jadau chokers crafted on silver bases with a gold finish, to heirloom-inspired Basra pearl necklaces and uncut diamond sets edged with emeralds.
Brooches, chokers, and mathapatis are leading this trend, adding a regal yet wearable charm to festive attire. Designer Manish Malhotra observes, “I admire how today’s buyers boldly make jewellery the centerpiece of their ensemble. Men’s jewellery is evolving too, becoming more expressive and sophisticated… I see men enjoying the styling process, experimenting with textures, layers, and designs.” This Diwali, it’s about bold styling, not just the quantity of gold.
The Heirloom Passdown
Jewellery that narrates a story takes the spotlight. Families are unveiling grandmothers’ ancestral kundan chokers, polki bangles, and vintage meenakari pieces, revitalizing them with modern craftsmanship. Nilofar Jacques of Anayah Jewellery, a UK brand, shares, “There’s a strong trend towards individuality. People desire pieces that feel deeply personal and tell a story.” From reimagined uncut diamonds to refreshed antique gold, the focus is on designs that honor heritage yet seamlessly fit into contemporary celebrations.
Convertible Necklaces and Pendants
This Diwali, shoppers are embracing clever, convertible designs that effortlessly shift from grand festive statements to everyday elegance. A long haar transforming into a choker, detachable pendants doubling as brooches or mathapatis, and necklaces with removable layers redefine fine jewellery wear. Brands like Tanishq Rivaah, Anita Dongre Pinkcity, and Khanna Jewellers lead with innovative clasps, interchangeable mounts, and adaptable gemstone settings, allowing one piece to suit multiple moods.
Head designer at Meena Jewellers advises, “Invest in versatile designs like diamond chokers transforming into layered necklaces, statement jhumkas with detachable drops, or bangles. Prioritize craftsmanship, proportion, and comfort — pieces should feel as beautiful as they look.” A navratna pendant dazzling at a Diwali dinner can later subtly adorn a gold chain for a quiet evening. This season, modern buyers seek jewellery that evolves with them — from heavy to light, from occasion to everyday.
The Hand Choker Revival
This Diwali, the focus is literally on the hands. Traditional haath phool and paanch-patti designs make a striking comeback, reimagined as modern “hand chokers” elegantly draping across fingers and wrists like jewellery armor. Crafted in gold, uncut diamonds, or meenakari work, these intricate pieces wrap around the hand with fluid grace, connecting rings to wrist cuffs through delicate chains or gem-studded lattices. They’re regal yet contemporary, nodding to India’s royal past with a distinctly fashion-forward twist. Ideal for festive soirées, these statement hand pieces pair beautifully with manicured nails, minimalist bangles, or even a clutch. Founder and designer Fatima Ali Al Dhaheri of Amwaj Jewellery adds, “Look for pieces carrying cultural significance yet can also become heirlooms, something you’ll cherish and perhaps pass down.”
Big Rocks — Diamonds and Emeralds
The allure of a single, striking gemstone dominates. Whether a radiant diamond solitaire or a deep green emerald, the emphasis is on one statement piece commanding attention. Big rocks offer effortless glamour — needing no layers or embellishments to make an impact. Modern buyers choose size and clarity over quantity, letting a single stone define the entire look. From oversized emerald studs to bold diamond drops, these pieces embody festive opulence. Styling tip: pair your stone with sleek hair or minimalist silhouettes to let the gem take center stage — the bigger the rock, the simpler the styling.
Statement Jhumkas, Sculptural Danglers
This Diwali, maximalism confidently returns through oversized, shoulder-grazing earrings that frame the face. Think exaggerated chandbalis layered with pearls, long sculptural danglers in fluid gold forms, and tiered jhumkas cascading with movement. Silhouettes become bolder and experimental — circular, teardrop, and asymmetrical shapes draw inspiration from architecture and temple artistry. Manish Malhotra captures the sentiment perfectly, saying, “There’s a love for statement pieces. The diamond earcuff, for instance, has become a beautiful new-age heirloom. It’s bold, intricate, and harmonizes beautifully with traditional looks. Earrings are no longer delicate; they’re sculptural, almost architectural.”
wknd@khaleejtimes.com
