The world discovers the brilliance of India – highlights from IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026

Magic – that is the one word I would use to sum up my visit to IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 in Mumbai. From 5–10 August 2026, the 42nd edition of India’s most important jewellery trade show and the world’s second-largest B2B event for the glittering industry took place. But the success of IIJS is not just about scale – it is also about mastering the art of creating experiences. I felt completely immersed in the beauty of India’s culture and traditions, as well as in the stories of the region’s jewellery makers. And the jewellery at IIJS was simply fabulous.

This year, the show celebrated the 25th year anniversary of “IIJS Excellence” – a quarter of a century of history, with IIJS playing an invaluable role in promoting and developing India’s jewellery scene internationally. My feeling that the August edition had truly broken records when it came to attendance was confirmed by the numbers: more than 56,970 visitors made their way through the halls of the Jio World Convention Centre and Bombay Exhibition Centre, including more than 5,000 international visitors from over 80 countries. More than 2,100 exhibitors took part, with over 3,600 booths. The theme running through every element of the show – from the programme and scenography to brand collections and the designers’ competition – was the music of India. Music was everywhere: evening performances, smaller live shows throughout the day, traditional instruments, contemporary singers – all of it came together to create an incredible energy and atmosphere. Exhibitors outdid themselves, showing how the country’s musical heritage can fuel sparkling creativity.

India’s jewellery – a global phenomenon

India’s jewellery scene is truly unique, and the mission of IIJS Premiere is to showcase its diversity, craftsmanship, richness and originality to the international community. Brilliant Bharat Gallery, a presentation of jewellery inspired by this year’s theme, was an expression of imagination, goldsmithing talent and cultural awareness. Miniature musical instruments adorned with colourful gemstones and intricate detailing looked like sculptures, tiny works of art. During my visits to the booths and collection previews – especially at The Select Club, my favourite section dedicated to high-end jewellery – I was struck by how boldly brands and designers are moving beyond stereotypes. Indian jewellery is often associated with opulence and spectacular scale, yet at IIJS Premiere I saw plenty of dazzling designs made for everyday wear. I love the way designers combine inspiration drawn from India’s traditions and culture with contemporary composition and aesthetics. From my conversations with designers, including Golecha and Anuj, I came away with the feeling that one of the greatest strengths of India’s jewellery scene is its ability to tell stories through jewellery. Every collection carries an engaging and captivating narrative, bringing together emotions, personal experiences, culture and travel. Indian manufacturers can boast not only spectacular signature collections – they are also trusted partners for brands from other countries, valued for their production capabilities, access to incredible gemstones, and, above all, for combining technological innovation with outstanding craftsmanship and handwork.

A celebration of culture

IIJS Premiere is organised by GJEPC – the Gems Jewellery Export Promotion Council. Through thoughtful promotion and the building of an international reputation, the show makes a real contribution to growing exports and fostering business relationships between local manufacturers and partners from other countries. A case in point? The August edition of IIJS welcomed a delegation from my home country, Poland. Mumbai was visited by Kinga Gajewska, Member of the Polish Parliament and Chair of the Polish-Indian Parliamentary Group, and Tomasz Zjawiony, President of the Regional Chamber of Commerce in Katowice, Vice-President of European Entrepreneurs CEA-PME in Brussels and Honorary Consul of the Republic of Slovenia in Poland. The presence of Polish representatives at one of India’s most important jewellery industry trade shows highlighted the growing economic ties between Poland and India, as well as the increasing interest in cooperation between the two markets.

IIJS Premiere does not try to recreate the atmosphere or aesthetics of European or American events. Instead, it creates its own distinctive quality, deeply rooted in local culture and tradition – and from a visitor’s perspective, that is what makes it so fascinating and engaging. I was hugely impressed by the artistic dimension of the show, the quality and craftsmanship of the collections, the originality of the design, but above all by how effectively it showed what makes Indian jewellery stand out on the global market.