Mumbai: As the first global jewellery show of the year, Signature once again became the place where expectations for the months ahead began to take shape. The Show was thrown open at the JIO World Centre, BKC, Mumbai on 8th January.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC positioned 2026 as a pivotal year for the sector, marked by India’s third term as Chair of the Kimberley Process, expanding FTAs, and stronger domestic demand. “IIJS Bharat Signature comes at exactly the right time. It allows the industry to test sentiment early, renew confidence, and set its course for the year ahead,” he said, underlining the role of trust, transparency, and market diversification in building resilience.
That confidence was echoed by Mr. Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, who highlighted the show’s scale and intent. With over 1,600 exhibitors, 25,000-plus buyers, and growing international participation, he noted that Signature is designed to drive real outcomes. “This is where the world looks to India for signals on what lies ahead. Scale matters, but what matters more is relevance, efficiency, and business focus,” he said, pointing to initiatives like Jewel Start, Innov8 Talks, and sustainability led exhibition practices.
As Chief Guest, Ms. Sandrine Conseiller, CEO, De Beers Brands and Chair, Natural Diamond Council, placed India firmly at the centre of the global diamond narrative. “There is no more relevant place to discuss the future of the jewellery industry than India. This industry has endured for centuries because it does not fear change.
Consumers today are informed, discerning and intentional, and they value provenance and meaning. That is not a challenge for our industry, it is a powerful opportunity. When we provide clarity and honesty, confidencebuilds, trust follows, and India continues to inspire the world in diamonds.”
Among the Guests of Honour, Mr. Saumen Bhaumik, Managing Director, CaratLane, drew attention to the industry’s long-term foundations. While celebrating the sector’s growth, he stressed the need to invest in artisans and skills.
“As our industry grows, every stakeholder has benefited, but continued investment in skills and craftsmanship will be key to sustaining this momentum.
With the industry expected to grow significantly in the coming years, the availability of skilled hands will become critical.
Making artisans a priority is not charity, it is business prudence. If we want to be global leaders, dignity, pride and security for craftsmanship must sit at the centre of our growth story,” he remarked.
Also speaking as Guest of Honour, Ms. Harsha Bangari, Managing Director, EXIM Bank, focused on structural strength and exports. Unveiling the joint EXIM Bank-GJEPC study on clusters, she noted, “Gems and jewellery is a traditional yet dynamic sector with a significant contribution to India’s exports and employment. Its real strength lies in its clusters, which function as integrated ecosystems bringing together artisans, manufacturers, traders and exporters. Strengthening infrastructure, improving access to finance, addressing technology and skill gaps, and easing trade bottlenecks are critical if these clusters are to realise their full export potential.”
As Day Two unfolds, the message from the inaugural stage is already reflected on the show floor. IIJS Bharat Signature 2026 is not about spectacle alone. It is about clarity, preparedness, and an industry ready to move forwardwith intent.
