New Delhi: Jaipur’s long standing reputation as a centre for gemstone cutting, polishing and jewellery craftsmanship is increasingly intersecting with modern gemological practices, certification standards and global consumer expectations. And as international demand for coloured gemstones and handcrafted jewellery develops, industry experts believe that the future of Jaipur’s gemstone sector will depend on its ability to preserve traditional craftsmanship at the same time supporting greater transparency and technological advancement.
Mr. Ashok Soni, Founder & Gemstone Expert at PMKK Gems (Rashi Ratan Jaipur), brings 40+ years of experience in India’s gemstone and jewellery industry. Also his professional work spans gemstone identification, quality assessment, sourcing, certification, astrological gemstone consultation and consumer education.
As per Rajasthan Tourism, the state has traditionally been recognised for its gemstone-cutting and jewellery-making expertise, with Jaipur particularly associated with jewellery traditions such as Kundan and Meenakari. The Rajasthan government also identifies Jaipur as a major processing centre for a wide range of precious and semi-precious gemstones.
For Mr. Ashok, the growth of the industry does not mean replacing traditional craftsmanship with technology. In place of, he believes the two can complement each other.“The real strength of Jaipur’s gemstone industry is its ability to preserve craftsmanship at the same time adapting to changing standards. A gemstone is not simply a finished product as well as represents the skill of the cutter, the knowledge of the gem expert and the expectations of an increasingly informed consumer. Bringing traditional expertise together with modern gemological testing and certification can help create greater transparency while preserving the character of handcrafted jewellery,” said Mr. Ashok Soni.
The journey of a gemstone begins well before it becomes part of a finished jewellery piece. Selecting rough material requires an understanding of its colour, transparency, inclusions and structural characteristics. The cutter must then determine how the stone can be shaped and polished to maximise its visual qualities at the same time working within the characteristics of the material.
Modern gemology has added another layer to this traditional process. Gemological laboratories can use advanced testing methods to help determine whether gemstones are natural, laboratory-grown or treated. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), for instance, states that its coloured-stone reports identify the gemstone and disclose if it is natural or laboratory-grown, along with detectable treatments.
Treatment disclosure has consequently become an important part of consumer awareness. Treatments may improve a gemstone’s appearance, but they can also influence factors such as value, durability and care requirements. Clear information about treatments can therefore help buyers make more informed purchasing decisions.
The global opportunity for Jaipur’s gemstone industry is also expanding. Rajasthan’s investment platform identifies gems and jewellery as an important sector for the state, including opportunities in gemstones, handmade ornaments and customised jewellery. Jaipur’s traditional expertise is increasingly being connected to international markets with exports, digital commerce and global customer networks.
Technology has also changed how customers interact with the gemstone industry. Digital catalogues, online consultations, certification documents and international shipping allow customers outside Jaipur to access its gemstone ecosystem without necessarily visiting the city’s traditional markets.
Still, greater global reach also brings greater responsibility. As consumers increasingly research products before purchasing them, gemstone businesses are expected to provide clearer information about authenticity, treatments, certification and quality.
Under Mr. Ashok Soni leadership, PMKK Gems (Rashi Ratan Jaipur) has developed its presence around natural and certified gemstones, precious and semi-precious stones, Rudraksha and fine jewellery. His professional approach combines traditional Vedic gemstone knowledge with modern gemological standards, with an emphasis on authentication and informed consumer choices.
Jaipur’s gemstone industry is still entering a new phase, where traditional craftsmanship is increasingly supported by gemological science, certification, digital commerce and greater consumer awareness. For Mr. Ashok Soni, this balance between heritage and modern standards can help Jaipur strengthen its position in the evolving global gemstone and jewellery market.