Jewellery specialist, journalist, blogger, stylist, consultant – these are just some of the titles that this year’s blog award winner, Preeta Agarwal holds! As well as being an award-winning jewellery blogger, Preeta also hosts jewellery trips for students and young entrepreneurs and has written 5 books. We caught up with the Preeta to discuss her incredible career, her inspiration and her jewellery predictions for 2020.
How did you get started in the jewellery industry?
I started as jewellery designer way back in 2007 after graduating from one of the top design colleges in India- National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). The plan was to design jewellery for a few leading jewellers for a couple of years, gain experience and eventually start out on my own. But, I think destiny had something else planned for me.
What made you want to write about jewellery?
While designing for a leading jeweller in New Delhi, I also got a chance to work in their public relations department and help in content writing for the brand. That is when I realised that I was good at it and can pursue it professionally. However, in 2010, there wasn’t anyone in India who was writing exclusively about fine jewellery. Most magazine still have fashion journalists write about jewellery also. Realising this situation early on, I starting contacting the editors of various international magazines and that’s when I got in touch with Maria Doulton of The Jewellery Editor and she gave me my first international jewellery story. And there has been no looking back since then.
Who is your favourite designer/brand?
While the list of my favourite brands is endless but Boucheron and Van Cleef & Arpels are truly magical!
What are your trend predictions for 2020?
The biggest trends for the year 2020 will be extreme opposites… while some would appreciate geometry and clean looks, many would also love intricate vintage pieces. While large chunky gemstones in all colours, shapes and sizes would be a big hit, all diamond classics would still be bridal favourites.
What is on your Christmas list?
A Van Cleef & Arpels ballerina clip, a Tomasz Donocik edgy ring and a Faberge egg pendant.
Which celebrity would you like to style?
If given a chance I would love to get my hands on some British royal jewellery and style the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine, for a state dinner.
Which is your most treasured piece of jewellery in your jewellery box?
It would not just be a piece; it is a whole box full of bejewelled brooches/ clips that I collect from all over the world, when I travel.
Who has been your greatest inspiration and why?
One person who I really look up to is Vivienne Becker. When I started writing about jewellery, there weren’t many those who specialised in the subject. She was and still is one of the best on the industry and I am big follower of her work and her knowledge.
What is your favourite memory during your time as a jewellery blogger/social media influencer?
This year has been extremely great for my work. I had a lot of firsts but the four days spent in Paris during the Haute Couture Week in July were superb. I got to see and hold so many extremely rare jewels in the palm of my hands.
When did your love of jewellery begin?
It was during my first job at a brand called Ganjam in Bengaluru, India. I had finished my education in jewellery design by then but it was at Ganjam that I truly fell in love with all things about jewellery… diamonds, gemstones, design, techniques and even jewellery photography!
What is the proudest moment in your jewellery career?
The proudest moment of my career is the prestigious title of ‘Blogger of the Year 2019’, awarded to me at the International Jewellery London Show this year. It just made me feel, like all those years of hard work finally got an acknowledgement on a global platform. A big thanks to the entire IJL team for appreciating my work!
The 2019 Jewellery Blogger of the Year award was sponsored by the NAJ, the UK’s leading jewellery trade association and event sponsor for International Jewellery London.
