Sunita Shekhawat: The majesty of Meenakari

A symphony of emeralds, rubies, uncut diamonds and sapphires define her regal aesthetic, embellished further with exquisite meenakari work in rich, eye-catching hues. Architectural yet personal, she does not merely design jewellery to adorn a bride but to build her legacy with heirloom-worthy masterpieces. 

Sunita Shekhawat is in a league of her own. The name evokes old-world grandeur unlike any other in the world of bridal finery, making her a favourite among royalty and celebrities alike. She also takes her keen interest in the art of enamelling to the Museum of Meenakari Heritage in Jaipur, where the traditional technique transcends the realm of bijouterie into everyday collectibles. 

The sought-after jewellery designer takes us through her vision, wisdom and ingenuity.

Brides Today: A certain kind of regal Indian elegance has come to define your jewellery like its own signature. What were the earliest influences that shaped your design aesthetic? 

Sunita Shekhawat: My earliest influences were shaped by travel across India, experiencing its diverse landscapes, vibrant colours, and rich traditions. These journeys instilled in me a deep appreciation for cultural heritage, and they continue to inspire the elegance, harmony, and timelessness that define my jewellery today.

BT: You are celebrated for reviving traditional techniques like meenakari while giving them modern relevance. How do you ensure the craft remains authentic yet contemporary? 

SS: The craft must always come first. I believe in preserving its purity and allowing modern relevance to emerge naturally through scale, colour, and how a piece fits into today’s life.

BT: The personalised brooches you designed for Vamsi Gadiraju, for his lavish wedding with Netra Mantena, drew widespread attention. What was your creative process behind those exquisite pieces? 

SS: Personalisation today is about creating emotional connections, not just bespoke details. Vamsi’s brooches were about storytelling. I wanted them to feel personal and symbolic, not ornamental.

BT: Precious coloured gemstones are the hallmarks of your design. What draws you to these stones, and how do you decide which best tells a wearer’s story? 

SS: Coloured gemstones have emotion. Each stone carries a mood, a memory, an energy. I choose them instinctively, often thinking about what the person wearing the jewellery would want to express strength, celebration, or continuity.

BT: Your pieces feel heirloom-worthy from the moment they’re created. What, in your view, truly sets a Sunita Shekhawat creation apart? 

SS: Every Sunita Shekhawat piece of jewellery is made with the intention of becoming an heirloom that is eventually carried forward generation after generation. What sets the jewellery apart is the craftsmanship, and associated emotion. 

BT: You’re a favourite among celebrities and modern royalty. How do you approach designing for high-profile clients versus a bride curating her personal trousseau? 

SS: The approach is always personal. While high-profile clients look for a narrative that resonates, brides craft memories to last a lifetime. In every case, the jewellery embodies thoughtfulness, authenticity, and enduring emotion.

BT: Today’s brides are looking for versatility and longevity. How do you design jewellery that transcends the wedding day? 

SS: Jewellery should evolve with the woman. I design pieces that can transition through life, carrying memories while remaining relevant and wearable. Emotion and memory are embedded in my designs through symbolism, colour, and form so the pieces grow more personal with time.

BT: With evolving bridal tastes, what shifts are you currently noticing— especially in how brides balance statement jewellery with subtle pieces? 

SS: Brides today are more intentional. They value meaning over excess and are drawn to pieces that feel personal, versatile, and timeless. 

BT: Is there a particular design from recent years that feels especially close to your heart?

SS: Every collection has something close to my heart, but pieces that draw a challenge to overcome often stay with me longer. They represent growth both creative and personal. 

BT: Your son Digvijay and daughter Niharika are now actively involved in the brand. How has the presence of the next generation shaped your vision for the future of brand Sunita Shekhawat? 

SS: Having Digvijay and Niharika involved has brought a fresh perspective and energy to the brand. They share a deep understanding of our heritage, and the values that have shaped our work. Yet, they also bring new ideas and possibilities. Their presence reassures me that the brand will continue to grow and evolve thoughtfully, honouring its legacy while embracing the future, as well.

BT: You recently unveiled the inaugural edition of Collectibles by the Museum of Meenakari Heritage. What inspired this collection, and how does it extend the brand’s vision beyond jewellery into cultural preservation? 

SS: The Collectibles emerged from a desire to let meenakari exist beyond jewellery. The Museum of Meenakari Heritage is about preservation, and this collection allows the craft to be viewed, experienced, and contemplated as cultural art rather than adornment alone. 

BT: What would you advise brides who hope to build a jewellery collection that’s not just beautiful, but enduring enough to become a family legacy? 

SS: Choose jewellery with patience and intention. Trends fade, but craftsmanship and emotion endure. Invest in pieces that feel true to you; they will naturally become part of your family’s story.

This article originally appeared in Brides Today's Volume 8 Number 1 print issue.

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