The Indian jewelry market, valued at over $75 billion, stands as one of the largest and fastest-growing in the world. As a global hub for jewelry manufacturing, India plays a crucial role in shaping trends, craftsmanship, and innovation in the industry.
Today, the scope of jewelry design is expanding worldwide, with increasing opportunities for creative professionals who can blend artistry with modern technology. In India, this demand is particularly driven by changing consumer preferences for custom-made, sustainable, and luxury jewelry.
This transformation has created a surging need for skilled designers, capable of working across both traditional heritage techniques and contemporary design aesthetics.
At the forefront of this evolution stands IIG South, proudly recognized as the #1 Gems & Jewelry Institute in South India, nurturing the next generation of jewelry professionals with world-class training and industry exposure. IIG South provides the perfect launchpad with professional training, exposure, and industry connections by providing versatile jewelry designing Courses.
Growing Scope in India and Beyond
In India, the jewelry design sector is witnessing remarkable growth, fueled by:
- Export Excellence: India exports jewelry worth over $40 billion annually
- Domestic Demand: Rising disposable income and changing lifestyle preferences
- Cultural Heritage: Rich tradition of jewelry craftsmanship spanning millennia.
- Modern Innovation: Integration of CAD technology and contemporary design trends
Why Jewelry Designing is the Perfect Career Choice in the New Age!
1. Booming Industry with Global Demand: The Indian jewelry industry alone is valued at over $75 billion, with consistent growth worldwide. This expansion fuels the demand for skilled jewelry designers who can strike a balance between tradition and innovation.
2. Blend of Creativity and Technology: Jewelry designing is ideal for those with a creative spark. Today’s designers combine artistry with modern tools like CAD (Computer-Aided Design), 3D printing, and advanced manufacturing techniques, making it a future-ready profession.
3. Diverse Career Opportunities: A qualified designer can build a career in multiple domains, such as Luxury jewelry brands, independent jewelry studios, Export houses, Gem & diamond companies, E-commerce jewelry platforms, and Entrepreneurship and custom design services.
4. Evolving Consumer Preferences: The rise in demand for customised, sustainable, and luxury jewelry has created a niche for innovative designers who can understand market trends and consumer aspirations.
5. Global Recognition and Growth: Jewelry designing offers not just national but international career opportunities, with Indian designers making a mark at global fashion weeks, exhibitions, and trade shows.
Why IIG South?
Industry Legacy & Credibility:
The International Institute of Gemology South (IIG South) stands as a premier destination for gems and jewelry education. Established on August 15, 2021, a date that symbolizes new beginnings and independence, IIG South serves as the educational wing of Laxmi Diamonds, under the visionary leadership of Mr. Chetan Kumar Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director of Laxmi Diamonds, Bengaluru.
The legacy of IIG dates back to 1965, when Mr. Kanti Desai, a true pioneer in the field, founded SRDC, which was later rebranded as the International Institute of Gemology. At the core of IIG South lie its founding values: enabling, empowering, and encouraging aspiring professionals to chase their dreams.
The institute is not just a center of academic excellence but a hub of cultural integrity and ethical learning. Its well-equipped classrooms and advanced infrastructure provide students with hands-on exposure to the latest tools, manufacturing facilities, and design environments. Coupled with robust industry linkages, through guest lectures by national & international experts, regular industrial tours, exhibitions, and strong job assistance, IIG South offers more than just courses; it offers a launchpad into a thriving global gems & jewelry ecosystem.
The institute’s reputation is built on:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering both traditional techniques and modern technology
- Industry Connections: Direct links to leading jewelry manufacturers and designers
- Expert Faculty: Experienced professionals from the gems and jewelry industry
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern workshops and manufacturing unit with 3D printer and many other equipment.
- Career Support: Placement assistance and industry networking opportunities
Getting Started at IIG South
1. Course Prerequisites & Eligibility
Our programs are designed for students, professionals, and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re fresh out of school, a graduate, or already working in the jewelry industry, we offer courses tailored to your level of expertise. Basic eligibility depends on the course selected, with no prior design or technical background required for beginner programs.
2. Application Process
Applying is simple and seamless. Fill out our application form, submit the required documents, and our admissions team will guide you through the next steps.
Booking Information:
- Seat Reservation: Limited seats per batch (20-25 students maximum)
- Waitlist Options: Available for oversubscribed programs
3. Next Batch Dates
We offer multiple intakes throughout the year to give students flexibility. The upcoming batch schedules & details can be informed through a scheduled call with our sales executives who are available on +91-70196 99357.
4. Campus Visit Opportunities
Experience IIG South firsthand. Book a guided tour to explore our classrooms, workshops, and interact with faculty and students. This gives you a clear insight into our learning environment and industry-ready facilities.
5. Online Course Demos
Can’t visit in person? Join our free online demo sessions to get a taste of our teaching methodology, digital learning tools, and course structure before enrolling.
6. Industry Connect Sessions
- Guest Expert Talks: Sessions with industry leaders
- Networking Opportunities: Meet alumni and industry professionals
7. Technical Support:
- Demo Helpline: +91-70196 99357
- Gmail: bengaluru@iigsouth.com
- Online Chat Support: Available on the above number during business hours
Industrial Visits at IIG South
At IIG South, we believe that hands-on exposure is essential to mastering the art and science of gems & jewelry. That’s why we offer curated National & International Industrial Visits as part of our programs to give our students direct access to real-world industry operations.
What Students Experience:
- Tours of factories and manufacturing units, witnessing every stage from rough stone processing to final polishing and jewellery finishing.
- Exposure to the full spectrum of diamond grading and evaluation, with training on the 4 Cs: Carat, Cut, Color, and Clarity.
- Visits to leading industry players such as Hari Krishna Diamonds / Jewels in Surat, and many more in Bangalore, namely Laxmi Diamonds Pvt. Ltd., handling of advanced tools and equipment used by skilled artisans.
- Insights into jewelry markets and trade hubs, where students see firsthand how raw materials become commercial products.
Why It Matters:
- These visits bridge the gap between classroom theory and industrial practice, helping students understand not just what to do, but how it gets done.
- Seeing craftsmanship, machinery, and workflows in action builds deeper appreciation, sharper judgment, and stronger design and technical skills.
- Exposure to actual market dynamics and quality control processes
- Access to advanced computer-aided design and manufacturing tools
- Understanding emerging technologies in jewelry certification and tracking
- Learning modern inventory management and customer behaviour analysis
Virtual Guest Lecture Series
A simple gist of the Speakers and topics that are discussed in the IIG South-organised Guest Lecture Series
- Ms. Vinita Michael (Founder of Vinita Michael LLC) – Spoke about how a product concept moves from designing to marketing.
- Ms. Angelika Mavridou (Gemologist- Diamond Grader, F.G.A – F.G.G., President & MD at Gallery Diamond) – Shared insights on the challenges of making sales in high-end retail jewelry.
- Ms. Tammy Cohen (Founder of TC Brand Consulting)– Explained the importance of brand messaging in business.
- Mrs. Stacey Lim (Gemologist, Crystal Expert, Published writer, 7-figure Entrepreneur, CEO Uluna Pty Ltd., Vice President of the Gemological Association of Australia, Victorian Division) – Introduced crystallography and career paths for crystal enthusiasts.
- Ms. Agnes Abdullahu (Founder of DiaMondaine Diamantaires Club) – Presented about her DiaMondaine Diamantaires Club and its bright future.
- Mrs. Mara Santos (Portuguese Chemical Researcher, Founder of CO2 Diamonds) – Talked about creating lab-grown diamonds using CO₂ technology.
- Mr. Zulu Ghevriya (Co-Founder & CEO of Smiling Rocks) – Shared his entrepreneurial journey in lab-grown diamond jewelry and gave guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs.
- Mr. Peter Smith (Independent Jewelry Consultant for the US Market, Former President of Hearts on Fire, Memoire & Vibhor, Author and Columnist at National Jeweller and Jewelry Book) – Explained how to conduct jewelry business in the USA.
- Mr. Guy Borenstein (Senior Gemologist at Stuller Inc., Former Chief Gemologist for 2 laboratories, Former VP Gemological Services of Gemewizard) – Spoke about the challenges of screening lab-grown diamonds.
- Mr. G. Harish Vathan (Consultant: Lab Grown Diamonds Process, Manufacturing, Jewelry Branding & Social Media Influencer) – Highlighted the role of lab-grown diamonds in future technologies.
The guest lecture series covered design, sales, branding, crystallography, lab-grown diamonds, entrepreneurship, and the international jewelry business, giving students a 360° view of the gems and jewelry industry.
Awards & Achievements
At IIG South, creativity and excellence are celebrated through consistent recognition at national and international jewelry design competitions. Over the years, both our students and faculty have proudly showcased their talent, drawing inspiration from art, culture, nature, and innovation.
2021–22:
- Cocktail Ring – “The Collectors” (inspired by the Lotus Temple & Barbara Hutton) by Pooja Mohnani (MIJD Student) – 1st Runner-Up in The Artisan Awards.
- Cuff – “Childhood Memories” by Kowsika P (Jewelry Design Faculty) – 3rd Runner-Up in Designers of India Award (DOI Awards).
2022–23:
- Ear Cuff – “Art of Sculpture” (wave-inspired) by Shruti Agrawal (MIGJ Student) – 2nd Runner-Up in The Artisan Awards.
- Cocktail Ring – “Print” (Madhubani art & rotation design) by Bhumika Tak (MIJD Student) – Finalist in The Artisan Awards.
- Ear Cuff – “Abstract” (inspired by Kandinsky) by Nidhi G (Jewelry Design Faculty) – Finalist in The Artisan Awards.
- Cuff Bangle – “Nature’s Beauty” by Rajiv Ranjan Pandey (HOD Jewelry Design) – Winner in The WADA Awards(The World Academy of Design – World Jewellery Design Competition).
- Necklace – “Inestimable Expression” by R Rachna Asrani (Student) – Finalist in the International Jewellery Design Competition (IJDC).
2023–24:
- 90s Nostalgia Ring – “Objet Trouvé” (repurposed sharpener) by Rajiv Ranjan Pandey (HOD) – Finalist in The Artisan Awards.
- Goldistry Earrings – “Objet Trouvé” (mesh & reclaimed circuit boards) by Niveedhitha (MIGJ Student) – Finalist in The Artisan Awards.
- Dazzling Ring – The “Bunga Raya” cocktail ring pays tribute to Malaysia’s rich heritage, Inspired by the hibiscus, a symbol of beauty, strength, and resilience, with the theme, “Jewellery Without Limits” -by Rajiv Ranjan Pandey (HOD), Finalist in the Singapore Jewellery Design Award(SJDA).
2024–25:
- Bangle – “Indian Crafts Re-imagined” (Shakha Pola bangle revival) by Rajiv Ranjan Pandey (HOD) – Finalist in The Artisan Awards.
- Bangle – “Nature’s Symphony” (desert & cactus motif) by Basavesh Kamat (MIJDM Student) – Winner in JJS-IJ Design Awards.
2025:
- Nidhi G. – Our Jewelry Design Faculty, secured the 3rd Position in the Baby Girl Category at WADA Awards 2025.
- Aryan Mohnani – Our gifted student, won the 1st Position in the Baby Boy Category at WADA Awards 2025.
These awards reflect IIG South’s blend of tradition and modernity in jewelry design. From cultural inspirations like Madhubani art and Shakha Pola bangles, to avant-garde explorations using recycled materials and abstract concepts, every recognition is a testament to the institute’s vision of nurturing innovators of tomorrow.
Success Stories & Industry Connections
- Career Placements: After completing their courses, our students have successfully taken their first big step into the jewelry industry. They have been hired by reputed brands such as Aabushan Jewellery, Navrathan & Sons, C.Krishniah Chetty Group of Jewellers (CKC), Airaavata Jewelry House, Scarlet Designs, Laxmi Diamonds, Manappuram Jewellers Limited, Art of Silver, and many more.
- Many of our students have ventured into the jewelry business and successfully launched their own brands. Notable examples include Carbon Affair, a jewelry manufacturing unit founded by one of our alumni, and Shroff’s Studio, a distinguished lab-grown diamond jewelry brand.
- Internships with Leading Brands: Many students have also secured prestigious internships with renowned companies like Tanishq, CaratLane, and several others, gaining real-world experience and professional exposure.
- Workshops & Knowledge Building:
- The Vibrant Life of Colorstones – A comprehensive workshop aimed at creating awareness about colored gemstones, their significance.
- Sand Casting & Gemstone Workshop – In-depth session exploring gemstones, their unique characteristics, and their role in enhancing jewelry design.
- Educational Excursions: Students were taken on an inspiring design-focused excursion to Pondicherry, Hampi (Karnataka), and Lal Bagh(Bengaluru), where they drew creative inspiration from art, culture, and architecture, later applying these influences to their jewelry design projects.
- Global Exposure:
- Chanthaburi, Thailand – Students experienced mining practices first-hand, gaining insights into gemstone sourcing.
- “The Land of Sapphires” – Sri Lanka – IIG South organised an exclusive study tour for students, providing hands-on exposure to sapphire mining and trading.
Courses & Specializations in Jewelry Designing at IIG South
| Course | Duration / Mode |
| Master’s in Jewelry Design | 10 Months |
| Jewelry Design Graduate | 8.5 Months |
| Manual Professional | 4 Months |
| CAD Professional | 4.5 Months |
| Jewelry Manufacturing Techniques | 2 Months |
| ZBrush for Jewelry Design | 4 Weeks |
Supporting Courses: Procreate (2 Weeks), Jewelry Grading (2 Weeks), ZBrush (4 Weeks), Merchandising (6 Weeks)
Curriculum & Learning Outcomes
Across these courses, the curriculum is designed to provide a holistic understanding of jewelry design, from conceptualization to production. Core modules include:
- Introduction to Jewelry Design: History, styles, and market trends.
- Design Principles: Elements and principles of design.
- Sketching Techniques: Manual and digital sketching methods.
- CAD Modeling: 2D and 3D modeling techniques.
- Prototyping: Creating physical models from digital designs.
- Production Processes: Understanding manufacturing techniques.
- Marketing & Merchandising: Branding, retail strategies, and market positioning.
Tools & Resources
Students have access to a range of tools and resources to enhance their learning experience:
- Software: Rhinoceros, Matrix Gold, ZBrush, CorelDRAW, Procreate
- Materials: Access to design materials for manual sketching and prototyping
- Gemology & Diamond Tools: Loupe, Microscope, Refractometer, Dichroscope, Polariscope, Spectroscope, Diamond Gauge and many others.
Unique Benefits of Studying at IIG South
- Hands-on Practical Learning
Learn by doing our workshops, live projects, and real gemstone handling ensure you gain practical experience, not just theory. Students work with professional tools and real materials, preparing them for the industry from day one. - Industry Internships & Placement Opportunities
Gain direct exposure to jewelry brands and the gem & jewelry industry. With mentorship from industry professionals, students receive guidance, networking opportunities, and potential recruitment into leading brands. - Professional Certifications
Earn recognized certificates in gemology, diamond studies, jewelry design, and specialized courses that add credibility and enhance career prospects. - Networking Opportunities
Connect with experienced professionals, alumni, and industry mentors through workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and internships. - Guidance for Entrepreneurs
Learn the essentials of starting your own jewelry brand from conceptualizing designs, sourcing gems, creating prototypes, to marketing and selling your products.
Take the Next Step with IIG South
- Schedule a Campus Visit – Explore our state-of-the-art classrooms, and workshops.
- Download Course Brochure – Get detailed information about curriculum, faculty, and career opportunities.
- Attend Free Demo Classes – Experience our teaching style before you enroll.
- Connect with Alumni – Hear real success stories and discover career journeys of IIG South graduates.
- Contact Our Admissions Team – Get personalized guidance on choosing the right program.
- Check Course Duration & Schedule Options – Find flexible timings that fit your lifestyle.
To learn more about our specialised programs on Gems & Jewelry, visit our Courses page.
