Sawansukha Indian Institute of Jewellery (SIIJ) has conducted a sustainable design competition titled ‘From Scrap to Treasure’, aimed at encouraging students to reimagine discarded materials into finished jewellery pieces.

The initiative required participants to create designs exclusively from scrap and waste materials, including metal remnants, broken accessories and other reusable components. The objective was to introduce students to circular design principles and responsible material usage within the jewellery manufacturing ecosystem.

According to the institute, the competition was structured to push students beyond conventional sourcing methods and encourage experimentation with alternative materials. Entries were evaluated on creativity, technical execution and the effective transformation of waste into commercially viable design concepts.

The initiative aligns with the broader industry shift toward sustainability, as manufacturers and retailers increasingly assess environmental impact, material traceability and responsible sourcing. By integrating such challenges within its curriculum, SIIJ aims to prepare emerging designers to respond to evolving market expectations.

For the trade, the competition reflects how jewellery education is adapting to global sustainability priorities, fostering early awareness of resource optimisation and design efficiency. As sustainability becomes a stronger purchase driver across markets, such academic-led interventions may influence future product development and brand positioning strategies.

Source: GJEPC