Jewellery outsets as an adornment and becomes a necessary possession. But gradually, it becomes more than that. The jewellery one owns becomes an extension of his emotions. Jewellery is a treasured token commemorating the events, experiences and relationships of one’s life. And ones that make these memories and feelings even more striking are the jewellery designers who with their artistic ways and skilled craftsmanship shape the beautiful pieces which define individuality. One such designer is S. Ahalya, who co-founded the couture jewellery gallery, Rasvihar in South India’s reputed metropolis, Chennai. She not only believes that jewellery designing is an extension of human emotions but bases her designs on people’s personalities and their journey of life. “People are my inspiration,” says Ahalya, “Therefore I see no contradiction between my artistic urges and my clients’ needs. All my jewellery is designed with a specific person in mind – not necessarily someone I’ve met. Many times, I’d make jewellery that was inspired by a particular person, and soon enough that same person would walk in and claim the piece as her own.” This makes her every design personal, close to heart and very individualistic. %% When quizzed about her foray into the world of jewellery and gems, she reminisces, “During my brother’s wedding, I couldn’t find the jewellery I had in mind, so I decided to design it myself. Even though I come from a family of doctors and academicians, I graduated in Psychology and decided to complete a course in diamond grading at the International Gemological Institute before entering the profession.” A deep understanding of human psyche coupled with the gemological studies, Ahalya unearthed most exotic designs, which gave a new meaning to jewellery and style.%% She started with the Rasvihar store in 2007 with a profound knowledge of art and life which many will agree is a necessity in this business. At IIJW 2011 edition in Grand Hyatt, she showcased her collections that were highly appreciated. Taking inspiration from nature, she presented the show in three segments — Lace, Leaf and Navaratna. Rasvihar was also the associate sponsor of L'Oréal Paris Femina Women Awards 2012, which honoured 19 women of extraordinary talent in India across different fields. “As the designs we have are largely contemporary and meant for modern women, whose roots are still traditional, the platform of L'Oréal Paris Femina Women Awards was ideal. It was a wonderful experience for us,” shares Ahalya.%%

Ahalya is a modern Chennai woman whose roots are customary. She is aware of the city’s traditions and lifestyle; its needs and likes. While talking about Chennai and its women’s preferences in jewellery, she says, “I craft designs that appeal to the sensibilities of the modern Chennai woman, even though I believe that the city is beginning to draw the line between jewels that serve as status symbols as those that stand out as pleasing to the eye. Traditionally, women in the city have opted for jewels that are noticeable and significantly large. While jewellery worn simply on account of its status symbol is always bound to exist, there is also a growing market for elegant and subtle jewellery that has a personal touch to it. This trend, I believe, is here to stay.”But when it comes to personal style, Ahalya promptly shares that she prefers Kanjeevaram silk sarees with jewellery from Rasvihar. Simple and elegant is her style secret that sure highlights her arty personality.%% Most Indian jewellery designers are inspired by India in its complete glory of colours, languages; varied dressing sense and its eclectic mix of intriguing people but not all can convert this inspiration as just a guideline and interpret it in an individual way. Ahalya, too is completely desi when it comes to sensibilities but what takes the spotlight is her modish approach. She is rooted in tradition, but she’s not bound by it. “Classical Indian music, dance, art … all have well-defined structures which lend themselves to endless experimentation,” she says. A look at her jhumka designs and you know her statement stand true. A simple, straight-lined, clutter-free design reminiscing about the classic art deco architecture, the jhumkas tell a story of their own. One of the most intriguing designs is a pair of gold and silver jhumkas embellished with precious blue gem stones that can complement any ensemble. %% Ahalya uses her all-embracing knowledge of Indian jewellery as the onset for her designs, which is startlingly original and entirely attuned to evolving global aesthetics. She works within a precise set of rules but she feels it liberates her to innovate in a way that resonates with changing times. This can be vouched for by her contemporary gold necklace that echoes a very modish and western sensibility. A very simple approach of using circles in an aligned way gave birth to a piece that can give a high-end luxury brand a run for its money, when it comes to style and class. It can add an outlandish charm to a cocktail dress yet can lend grace to a saree. The Navratna Necklace designed by her is an ode to India with its beautiful colours. A note-worthy element in this design is that each ‘ratna’ or gemstone has been highlighted in an equal way making the necklace a synonym to regality. %%

A myriad colours, is also a trademark which can be witnessed in her earrings and bracelet designs. The bright pop of hues makes her designs very alluring to all classes and ages. The accurate use of coloured precious stones such as rubies, corals and the right inclusion of pears make the earrings designed by Ahalya is a winner in this season’s trend as citrusy shades have been ruling the global runways. Her ruby bracelet too has a stately charm which showcases finesse and craftsmanship. But, when asked about her favourite design Ahalya opines, “Each piece is unique and individual. Design is all about marrying form with function.”%% Ahalya values her intuition, which guides her to explore uncharted artistic terrain. Taking the path less trodden has proved fruitful for her as it has made her one of the most-sought after name in the industry. All her jewellery designs are proudly hand-made by master craftsmen who also are trained to understand the changing needs and evolution of latest technologies. The hard work of her and her team’s is appreciated by all especially by the younger consumers who are highly attracted to her contemporary designs that give the overdone ‘bling’, a rightful miss. Sketching designs, meeting with clients and the team, ideating on new creations and preparing to come up with a new collection in every three months is a typical S. Ahalya day where she also finds time to indulge in her hobbies such as fine art and dance.%% Her latest collection is the Lace Collection which highlights the intricacies and softness of design and emotions depicted in the lace-patterned jewellery. This collection has garnered immense support as it is not only traditionally rooted and applicable to modern times but it also pays homage to the era where jewellery making was a art which now has a become a business. Rasvihar’s latest collection has started with the premise that jewellery-making is high art.%% Rasvihar is a gallery that curates art conceived and crafted in precious metals and stones and upholds the similar admiration for art and the artist that was the seal of India's golden yesteryears. S. Ahalya with her distinct style and art is sure to make this gallery a leading name in the jewellery industry of India.%%

Jewellery outsets as an adornment and becomes a necessary possession. But gradually, it becomes more than that. The jewellery one owns becomes an extension of his emotions. Jewellery is a treasured token commemorating the events, experiences and relationships of one’s life. And ones that make these memories and feelings even more striking are the jewellery designers who with their artistic ways and skilled craftsmanship shape the beautiful pieces which define individuality. One such designer is S. Ahalya, who co-founded the couture jewellery gallery, Rasvihar in South India’s reputed metropolis, Chennai. She not only believes that jewellery designing is an extension of human emotions but bases her designs on people’s personalities and their journey of life. “People are my inspiration,” says Ahalya, “Therefore I see no contradiction between my artistic urges and my clients’ needs. All my jewellery is designed with a specific person in mind – not necessarily someone I’ve met. Many times, I’d make jewellery that was inspired by a particular person, and soon enough that same person would walk in and claim the piece as her own.” This makes her every design personal, close to heart and very individualistic. %% When quizzed about her foray into the world of jewellery and gems, she reminisces, “During my brother’s wedding, I couldn’t find the jewellery I had in mind, so I decided to design it myself. Even though I come from a family of doctors and academicians, I graduated in Psychology and decided to complete a course in diamond grading at the International Gemological Institute before entering the profession.” A deep understanding of human psyche coupled with the gemological studies, Ahalya unearthed most exotic designs, which gave a new meaning to jewellery and style.%% She started with the Rasvihar store in 2007 with a profound knowledge of art and life which many will agree is a necessity in this business. At IIJW 2011 edition in Grand Hyatt, she showcased her collections that were highly appreciated. Taking inspiration from nature, she presented the show in three segments — Lace, Leaf and Navaratna. Rasvihar was also the associate sponsor of L'Oréal Paris Femina Women Awards 2012, which honoured 19 women of extraordinary talent in India across different fields. “As the designs we have are largely contemporary and meant for modern women, whose roots are still traditional, the platform of L'Oréal Paris Femina Women Awards was ideal. It was a wonderful experience for us,” shares Ahalya.%%

Ahalya is a modern Chennai woman whose roots are customary. She is aware of the city’s traditions and lifestyle; its needs and likes. While talking about Chennai and its women’s preferences in jewellery, she says, “I craft designs that appeal to the sensibilities of the modern Chennai woman, even though I believe that the city is beginning to draw the line between jewels that serve as status symbols as those that stand out as pleasing to the eye. Traditionally, women in the city have opted for jewels that are noticeable and significantly large. While jewellery worn simply on account of its status symbol is always bound to exist, there is also a growing market for elegant and subtle jewellery that has a personal touch to it. This trend, I believe, is here to stay.”But when it comes to personal style, Ahalya promptly shares that she prefers Kanjeevaram silk sarees with jewellery from Rasvihar. Simple and elegant is her style secret that sure highlights her arty personality.%% Most Indian jewellery designers are inspired by India in its complete glory of colours, languages; varied dressing sense and its eclectic mix of intriguing people but not all can convert this inspiration as just a guideline and interpret it in an individual way. Ahalya, too is completely desi when it comes to sensibilities but what takes the spotlight is her modish approach. She is rooted in tradition, but she’s not bound by it. “Classical Indian music, dance, art … all have well-defined structures which lend themselves to endless experimentation,” she says. A look at her jhumka designs and you know her statement stand true. A simple, straight-lined, clutter-free design reminiscing about the classic art deco architecture, the jhumkas tell a story of their own. One of the most intriguing designs is a pair of gold and silver jhumkas embellished with precious blue gem stones that can complement any ensemble. %% Ahalya uses her all-embracing knowledge of Indian jewellery as the onset for her designs, which is startlingly original and entirely attuned to evolving global aesthetics. She works within a precise set of rules but she feels it liberates her to innovate in a way that resonates with changing times. This can be vouched for by her contemporary gold necklace that echoes a very modish and western sensibility. A very simple approach of using circles in an aligned way gave birth to a piece that can give a high-end luxury brand a run for its money, when it comes to style and class. It can add an outlandish charm to a cocktail dress yet can lend grace to a saree. The Navratna Necklace designed by her is an ode to India with its beautiful colours. A note-worthy element in this design is that each ‘ratna’ or gemstone has been highlighted in an equal way making the necklace a synonym to regality. %%

A myriad colours, is also a trademark which can be witnessed in her earrings and bracelet designs. The bright pop of hues makes her designs very alluring to all classes and ages. The accurate use of coloured precious stones such as rubies, corals and the right inclusion of pears make the earrings designed by Ahalya is a winner in this season’s trend as citrusy shades have been ruling the global runways. Her ruby bracelet too has a stately charm which showcases finesse and craftsmanship. But, when asked about her favourite design Ahalya opines, “Each piece is unique and individual. Design is all about marrying form with function.”%% Ahalya values her intuition, which guides her to explore uncharted artistic terrain. Taking the path less trodden has proved fruitful for her as it has made her one of the most-sought after name in the industry. All her jewellery designs are proudly hand-made by master craftsmen who also are trained to understand the changing needs and evolution of latest technologies. The hard work of her and her team’s is appreciated by all especially by the younger consumers who are highly attracted to her contemporary designs that give the overdone ‘bling’, a rightful miss. Sketching designs, meeting with clients and the team, ideating on new creations and preparing to come up with a new collection in every three months is a typical S. Ahalya day where she also finds time to indulge in her hobbies such as fine art and dance.%% Her latest collection is the Lace Collection which highlights the intricacies and softness of design and emotions depicted in the lace-patterned jewellery. This collection has garnered immense support as it is not only traditionally rooted and applicable to modern times but it also pays homage to the era where jewellery making was a art which now has a become a business. Rasvihar’s latest collection has started with the premise that jewellery-making is high art.%% Rasvihar is a gallery that curates art conceived and crafted in precious metals and stones and upholds the similar admiration for art and the artist that was the seal of India's golden yesteryears. S. Ahalya with her distinct style and art is sure to make this gallery a leading name in the jewellery industry of India.%%

Jewellery outsets as an adornment and becomes a necessary possession. But gradually, it becomes more than that. The jewellery one owns becomes an extension of his emotions. Jewellery is a treasured token commemorating the events, experiences and relationships of one’s life. And ones that make these memories and feelings even more striking are the jewellery designers who with their artistic ways and skilled craftsmanship shape the beautiful pieces which define individuality. One such designer is S. Ahalya, who co-founded the couture jewellery gallery, Rasvihar in South India’s reputed metropolis, Chennai. She not only believes that jewellery designing is an extension of human emotions but bases her designs on people’s personalities and their journey of life. “People are my inspiration,” says Ahalya, “Therefore I see no contradiction between my artistic urges and my clients’ needs. All my jewellery is designed with a specific person in mind – not necessarily someone I’ve met. Many times, I’d make jewellery that was inspired by a particular person, and soon enough that same person would walk in and claim the piece as her own.” This makes her every design personal, close to heart and very individualistic. %% When quizzed about her foray into the world of jewellery and gems, she reminisces, “During my brother’s wedding, I couldn’t find the jewellery I had in mind, so I decided to design it myself. Even though I come from a family of doctors and academicians, I graduated in Psychology and decided to complete a course in diamond grading at the International Gemological Institute before entering the profession.” A deep understanding of human psyche coupled with the gemological studies, Ahalya unearthed most exotic designs, which gave a new meaning to jewellery and style.%% She started with the Rasvihar store in 2007 with a profound knowledge of art and life which many will agree is a necessity in this business. At IIJW 2011 edition in Grand Hyatt, she showcased her collections that were highly appreciated. Taking inspiration from nature, she presented the show in three segments — Lace, Leaf and Navaratna. Rasvihar was also the associate sponsor of L'Oréal Paris Femina Women Awards 2012, which honoured 19 women of extraordinary talent in India across different fields. “As the designs we have are largely contemporary and meant for modern women, whose roots are still traditional, the platform of L'Oréal Paris Femina Women Awards was ideal. It was a wonderful experience for us,” shares Ahalya.%%

Ahalya is a modern Chennai woman whose roots are customary. She is aware of the city’s traditions and lifestyle; its needs and likes. While talking about Chennai and its women’s preferences in jewellery, she says, “I craft designs that appeal to the sensibilities of the modern Chennai woman, even though I believe that the city is beginning to draw the line between jewels that serve as status symbols as those that stand out as pleasing to the eye. Traditionally, women in the city have opted for jewels that are noticeable and significantly large. While jewellery worn simply on account of its status symbol is always bound to exist, there is also a growing market for elegant and subtle jewellery that has a personal touch to it. This trend, I believe, is here to stay.”But when it comes to personal style, Ahalya promptly shares that she prefers Kanjeevaram silk sarees with jewellery from Rasvihar. Simple and elegant is her style secret that sure highlights her arty personality.%% Most Indian jewellery designers are inspired by India in its complete glory of colours, languages; varied dressing sense and its eclectic mix of intriguing people but not all can convert this inspiration as just a guideline and interpret it in an individual way. Ahalya, too is completely desi when it comes to sensibilities but what takes the spotlight is her modish approach. She is rooted in tradition, but she’s not bound by it. “Classical Indian music, dance, art … all have well-defined structures which lend themselves to endless experimentation,” she says. A look at her jhumka designs and you know her statement stand true. A simple, straight-lined, clutter-free design reminiscing about the classic art deco architecture, the jhumkas tell a story of their own. One of the most intriguing designs is a pair of gold and silver jhumkas embellished with precious blue gem stones that can complement any ensemble. %% Ahalya uses her all-embracing knowledge of Indian jewellery as the onset for her designs, which is startlingly original and entirely attuned to evolving global aesthetics. She works within a precise set of rules but she feels it liberates her to innovate in a way that resonates with changing times. This can be vouched for by her contemporary gold necklace that echoes a very modish and western sensibility. A very simple approach of using circles in an aligned way gave birth to a piece that can give a high-end luxury brand a run for its money, when it comes to style and class. It can add an outlandish charm to a cocktail dress yet can lend grace to a saree. The Navratna Necklace designed by her is an ode to India with its beautiful colours. A note-worthy element in this design is that each ‘ratna’ or gemstone has been highlighted in an equal way making the necklace a synonym to regality. %%

A myriad colours, is also a trademark which can be witnessed in her earrings and bracelet designs. The bright pop of hues makes her designs very alluring to all classes and ages. The accurate use of coloured precious stones such as rubies, corals and the right inclusion of pears make the earrings designed by Ahalya is a winner in this season’s trend as citrusy shades have been ruling the global runways. Her ruby bracelet too has a stately charm which showcases finesse and craftsmanship. But, when asked about her favourite design Ahalya opines, “Each piece is unique and individual. Design is all about marrying form with function.”%% Ahalya values her intuition, which guides her to explore uncharted artistic terrain. Taking the path less trodden has proved fruitful for her as it has made her one of the most-sought after name in the industry. All her jewellery designs are proudly hand-made by master craftsmen who also are trained to understand the changing needs and evolution of latest technologies. The hard work of her and her team’s is appreciated by all especially by the younger consumers who are highly attracted to her contemporary designs that give the overdone ‘bling’, a rightful miss. Sketching designs, meeting with clients and the team, ideating on new creations and preparing to come up with a new collection in every three months is a typical S. Ahalya day where she also finds time to indulge in her hobbies such as fine art and dance.%% Her latest collection is the Lace Collection which highlights the intricacies and softness of design and emotions depicted in the lace-patterned jewellery. This collection has garnered immense support as it is not only traditionally rooted and applicable to modern times but it also pays homage to the era where jewellery making was a art which now has a become a business. Rasvihar’s latest collection has started with the premise that jewellery-making is high art.%% Rasvihar is a gallery that curates art conceived and crafted in precious metals and stones and upholds the similar admiration for art and the artist that was the seal of India's golden yesteryears. S. Ahalya with her distinct style and art is sure to make this gallery a leading name in the jewellery industry of India.%%