From new materials and lightweight designs to emerging suppliers, wider sourcing and stronger seasonal relevance, COUTURE India 2026 showed how the format has evolved, discovers Preeti Kulkarni

Mini Diamonds’ wholly owned subsidiary Namra Jewels has introduced a men’s jewellery collection featuring lab-grown diamonds, with a phased festive-season rollout across online and offline channels.

he Bureau of Indian Standards has raised the hallmarking fee for gold jewellery to Rs 75 per article from Rs 45, increasing the compliance cost for jewellers while retaining the silver fee at Rs 35.

Dassani Brothers’ new Polki capsule blends traditional elephant symbolism with uncut diamonds, emeralds, pearls and vibrant colourstones.

The campaign positions 925 sterling silver as a versatile choice for festive dressing, everyday style and meaningful gifting.

Organized jewellers are expanding cash-for-gold programmes ahead of the festive season as elevated bullion prices affect fresh demand and retailers seek greater access to recycled gold.

India’s gold market is showing signs of recovery in August as prices rebound, jewellery demand improves and retailers rebuild inventories ahead of the festive season, World Gold Council says

Indriya from Aditya Birla Jewellery has appointed actor Krithi Shetty as brand ambassador for Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka, launching its Varalakshmi campaign ahead of the festive season.

IIJS 2026 ended with healthy buyer attendance and active enquiries, while retailers remained selective on quantities, focusing on immediate demand, inventory rotation and festive requirements.

Jos Alukkas has announced its Onam campaign from August 8 to 26 across Kerala showrooms, combining offers on gold, diamonds and platinum with a consumer engagement initiative.

R.R. Jewellers celebrated its 16th anniversary in Hyderabad on July 27, 2026 with the launch of its Festival Collection, highlighting its retail growth, customer reach and affordable gold jewellery strategy.

Senco Gold & Diamonds inaugurated its 6,500 sq. ft. flagship Janpath store in Bhubaneswar on July 20 with actor Rakul Preet Singh, ahead of Odisha's festive and wedding shopping season.

VBJ, Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers has launched its month-long Amazing Aadi Sale until August 16, 2026, offering discounts across jewellery categories at its Anna Salai and Anna Nagar showrooms during the festive season.

Platinum Guild International’s Q4 2025 review highlights regional market shifts, with platinum gaining share across China, India, Japan, and the US as record gold prices influence consumer demand patterns.