The Jade Jewel Journey: Gary’s Trip to India Sourcing Gemstones
Earlier this year our expert jeweller, Gary travelled to India, one of the world’s great gemstone and diamond destinations, to personally jewels for clients and for Jade Jewellers.
More than a buying trip, it was a chance to source stones with intention: selected on the ground, guided by decades of experience, trusted relationships, and a careful eye for beauty. From vivid sapphires to remarkable diamonds, each stone was chosen for its character, rarity, and potential to become something truly special.
Now that Gary has returned, we’re excited to share a glimpse into that journey - from the bustling diamond district of Mumbai to the gemstone expertise of Jaipur, and what this means for future bespoke pieces at Jade Jewellers.
At the Heart of the Global Diamond Industry
India plays a pivotal role in the world of diamonds. In one of Mumbai’s diamond districts, there are more than 2,000 interconnected offices dedicated entirely to the diamond trade, with around 80% of the world’s diamonds cut there.
For Gary, stepping into this environment was both fascinating and eye-opening.
“It was my first trip to India, and I was fascinated - but also a little confronted by the sheer scale of it all.”
India has a very old history with diamonds and coloured stones, and that experience shows in the level of skill and craftsmanship seen across the industry today, Gary explains.
One of the things that stood out the most was the scale of production; factories employing thousands of skilled artisans produce millions of pieces each year, blending traditional techniques with modern technology.
“They can make whatever quality you desire — from very high-end, handcrafted pieces to more accessible designs. The skill level of the craftsmen is incredibly high.”
Sourcing gemstones on ground
While gemstones can be sourced through suppliers, being there in person offers the opportunity to hand-select stones based on what a client is truly looking for.
As Gary explained, “If someone is looking for something specific — a certain size, shape, or colour — going to the source gives you the opportunity to find exactly what they want.”
Being a part of and travelling with Nationwide Jewellers buying group also opened doors that otherwise would be difficult to access independently. This gave Gary and Jade Jewellers access to trusted diamond merchants, gemstone suppliers, and industry networks they would not otherwise have seen.
During the trip, Gary sourced a selection of gemstones for both clients and upcoming collections, including Ceylon sapphires known for their luminous sky-blue tones, morganite in soft peach to pink hues, and vibrant tourmaline. Each stone was chosen not only for its beauty, but for its potential.
“Cut is so important. If a gemstone isn’t cut well, it won’t show its colour or brilliance — it won’t reach its full potential.”
Gary also noted that many of the world’s finest gemstones come from regions surrounding India, including Sri Lanka. Some of these stones are geologically younger, which can make them more stable and visually striking.
It is this understanding of origin, structure, cut, and colour that helps ensure each gemstone selected is truly exceptional.
A New Chapter for Bespoke Design
The journey also marks an exciting new chapter for Jade Jewellers. Through partnerships with trusted suppliers, including Australian-owned businesses working closely with Indian manufacturers.
As Gary shared: “We can create something completely individual - a piece designed specifically for the customer, with their own ideas and preferences.”
With new gemstones arriving soon, these stones will form part of upcoming bespoke designs and new collections, bringing fresh possibilities to clients looking for something truly personal.
Learn more about our Bespoke Design Service here
Memories from the Journey
While gemstones were at the heart of the trip, the experience itself left a lasting impression on Gary. Travelling through India as part of the group gave him the chance to experience not only the industry, but the country’s scale, history, and energy firsthand.
From the intensity of Mumbai to the colour of Jaipur, the spice markets of Delhi, and a visit to the Taj Mahal, the journey offered memorable moments well beyond the world of jewellery.
As Gary reflected, “To experience Mumbai, to see it - is incredible. It’s something you don’t forget.”
He also spoke about how much he enjoyed seeing some of India’s most iconic places, including the Pink City of Jaipur and the Taj Mahal, as well as sharing the experience with a group of like-minded Australians Jewellery businesses.
The gemstones sourced on this trip will soon be transformed into new designs at Jade Jewellers, each with a story that begins thousands of kilometres away.