– Neil Sonawala, Director ZEN DIAMOND INDIA

1) Zen Diamond has built a strong global presence over the years. What are your key priorities for expanding the brand and strengthening its position in the Indian jewellery market?

Our goal is to build a network of 100 stores across India by 2030, but growth isn’t just about opening more stores. It’s about building a stronger brand. Indian consumers appreciate quality, design and authenticity, and that’s exactly what we stand for. As we expand, our focus will remain on contemporary design, exceptional craftsmanship and exclusively natural diamonds.

2) Consumer preferences are evolving rapidly, especially among younger buyers. How is Zen Diamond adapting its product offerings and retail strategy to meet these changing expectations?

Consumers today are buying diamonds differently. They aren’t waiting for weddings or milestone occasions. They’re buying for themselves, celebrating achievements and wearing diamonds every day.

That’s reflected in our collections. We design jewellery that is versatile, contemporary and easy to wear, while ensuring we’re present where our customers already shop, both online and in premium retail destinations.

3) With increasing competition from both natural and lab-grown diamonds, how do you see the diamond jewellery market evolving in the next few years, and what opportunities does this present for Zen Diamond?

Consumers today are far more informed than ever before. They understand quality, craftsmanship and certification, and that’s a positive shift for the industry.

Natural diamonds have a timeless value that goes beyond fashion. At Zen Diamond India, we’ve always focused on natural diamonds backed by internationally recognised certification. As consumers continue to seek authenticity and transparency, we believe trusted brands will continue to lead the market.

4) Technology, personalisation and omnichannel retail are reshaping the jewellery business. Which innovations are currently having the biggest impact on Zen Diamond’s growth strategy?

Our biggest strength is our state of the art manufacturing facility, which allows us to deliver international design with exceptional quality and consistency.

At the same time, we’re investing in a seamless omnichannel experience, making it easier for customers to discover our collections online and experience them in store. Today’s consumer expects both convenience and personalisation, and that’s where we’re focused.

5) What is your outlook for the diamond jewellery industry in India over the next three to five years, and what role do you expect brands like Zen Diamond to play in driving consumer demand?

The outlook is extremely positive. Natural diamond ownership among Indian women has grown from 11 percent to 15 percent in just three years, and the market is expected to reach nearly ₹1,50,000 crore by 2030.

More importantly, people are wearing diamonds every day, not just on special occasions. As a brand, our role is to continue building trust through quality, transparency and design while making natural diamonds more relevant to modern lifestyles.

RAPID FIRE

One quality you admire most about the G&J industry
Craftsmanship.

One drawback of the industry you’d like to improve
Every natural diamond is one of a kind and selling it has to match that rarity.

Your strength
I make decisions quickly.

Your weakness
Patience.

Business at the cost of principles or principles at the cost of business?
Principles. Always.

Describe yourself in a nutshell
A jeweller at heart and a retailer by choice.

Your source of inspiration
My family.

What opportunities do you foresee?
A new generation embracing natural diamonds as part of everyday life.

What remedial measure would you suggest during a tough economic situation?
Don’t discount the product. Make ownership easier through flexible payment options and continue delivering value.