Sankesh Surana
Sankesh Surana is a renowned Indian jewellery designer, certified gemologist, and founder of Sankesh Surana Studio, a luxury jewellery brand based in Bangalore. He is celebrated for his unique fusion of traditional Indian artistry and modern design, earning national and international recognition. Surana is also the creator of The Designer’s Trail, a mentorship initiative for emerging jewellery designers.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 31 in Bangalore, Karnataka, Sankesh Surana was raised in a family deeply rooted in the gems and jewellery industry. This early environment nurtured his fascination with design and craftsmanship. At the age of 20, a visit to Gokarna beach became a pivotal moment in his life, inspiring him to pursue jewellery design after observing the rhythmic beauty of ocean waves.
Surana later studied at the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in the United States, where he gained formal training in gemology. While still a student, he won a national-level award from the Gem & Jewellery Skill Council of India for designing over 100 pieces for artisans in Hupar, Gujarat, known as the "Silver Capital of India."
Entry into the Jewellery Industry
In 2010, Sankesh Surana began his professional journey by joining the family business, Nine Gems, alongside his elder brothers Shikesh Jain and Sanjay Jain. To hone his technical skills, he trained in diamond cutting and polishing in Surat, Gujarat, globally renowned as the "Diamond City of the World."
Jewellery Design and Signature Style
Surana’s design philosophy is rooted in storytelling through jewellery. His creations draw from nature, architecture, and cultural symbolism, often combining bold contemporary aesthetics with the richness of traditional Indian jewellery design.
One of his notable creations, the Sunrise and Sunset Ring, received the Critics' Choice Award from Gemporia in 2017. His Wave Collection, inspired by Gokarna’s seascapes, was a finalist at the Dubai International Jewellery Week 2018. He also received the Best Jewellery Designer Award at the Asian Iconic & Entrepreneurship Awards 2019, presented by actress Karishma Kapoor, and was named Trendsetter 2020 by the Retail Jeweller India Forum.
Surana’s work has been prominently featured in Mines to Market, Retail Jeweller Magazine, and Art of Jewellery.
Celebrity Clientele and Exhibitions
Sankesh Surana has crafted custom jewellery for several Indian celebrities including Urmila Matondkar, Shweta Tiwari, Erica Fernandes, Shivangi Joshi, and Hina Khan. His collections have been showcased at prestigious events such as the India International Jewellery Show (IIJS), Gujarat International Jewellery Show (GIJS), and various private exhibitions across India.
Industry veterans like Laksh Pahuja, Poonam Soni, and Varuna D. Jani have applauded Surana's innovation and dedication. Pahuja presented him with a handcrafted Indian brooch as a symbol of appreciation.
The Designer’s Trail
In 2025, Surana launched The Designer’s Trail, a pioneering initiative to mentor young jewellery designers through experiential learning. The program includes:
- On-site sketching in natural and cultural settings
- Workshops on sustainable jewellery design and storytelling
- Direct mentorship from seasoned designers
The first episode of its documentary series premiered on March 20, 2025, offering insights into creative processes and design evolution. The series is available on Surana’s official social media channels.
Upcoming Projects and Vision
Sankesh Surana aims to expand his brand's global reach and redefine luxury jewellery through new initiatives, including:
- Style & Shine: Masterclasses on jewellery styling for various occasions
- Collaborations with luxury fashion houses
- Jewellery auctions supporting healthcare and social causes
- International exhibitions in Dubai, London, and Singapore