Nishita’s Fine Jewelry Designs Are Modern and Comfortable
What’s your story?
I am fourth generation in a successful jewelry business. My dad always said I had an eye and the intuition for jewelry design but, like many teens, I wanted to find my own way. I began my career as a banker, pursued my passion for writing, worked as a journalist, and have also co-authored a book. During this time, I was also designing jewelry for friends and family as a side hustle. With no formal training in jewelry except a strong family legacy and a natural flair with design, I launched my eponymous label in Hong Kong in 2017 and have never looked back.
What excites you most about your industry?
I love the impassioned design, creativity, and constant innovation that are a hallmark of this industry. It is fascinating how traditional craftsmanship is coming together with modern technology, 3D printing, and augmented reality. I also love how the jewelry industry’s past and present are so deeply connected, and that the evolution of jewelry, in a way, tells us the story of mankind. Studying prehistoric ornaments, the treasures of the Pharaohs, royal jewels through the ages, and Art Deco masterpieces allows us to weave a wonderful tapestry of our history.
What’s your connection to Asia?
I am from Mumbai, India. Other than the 4 years I was at university in the US and UK, I have spent the greater part of my life in Asia, with 5 years in Shanghai and now 12 years in Hong Kong. I love the energy and vibrancy of Hong Kong and the connectivity it offers to the rest of Asia.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Without a doubt it is Hong Kong. It has always had a special place in my heart for its energy and vibrant multicultural network. It is a great hub for doing business, it promotes entrepreneurs, attracts some of the smartest minds in the world, and for the jewelry industry, it is a major hub for sourcing, production, and networking. I also love Hong Kong for the wonderful network of women entrepreneurs who actively support one another.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment.
And don’t be deterred by the ones who say you can’t, because they are too afraid you will.
Who inspires you?
Personally: My mother, for giving me the emotional, spiritual, and moral compass needed to navigate life, and for showing me that there is no age limit for learning. Also my father who has always pushed me to do better, seek new opportunities, and keep growing.
For my jewelry: I draw inspiration from my travels and the beautiful textiles, geometry, art, architecture, and vintage jewels I have seen to create designs for real, smart, and mindful women who inspire me each and every day.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
An Indian spiritual teacher, Sadhguru, recently said that we cannot decide what life throws at us, but what we make out of it is one hundred percent ours. So, during this uncertain time let us not dwell on what we cannot control and instead use this time to upgrade ourselves emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually so that we can come back with renewed energy and strength after these challenging times pass.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
Hindsight is always 20/20 and while in theory it would have been great to have launched my business a few years earlier, I would still prefer not to change anything in my journey. My unusual trajectory has provided learning experiences at each milestone and helped me develop skills and experiences from which I have learned a lot. It has also allowed me to meet different people whom I would not have otherwise met.
How do you unwind?
My home is my sanctuary and I love unwinding at home with my two daughters and husband. Family time makes me relaxed and happy. We read together, watch movies, or cook. Hong Kong can be a busy place and escaping the bustle for some beautiful hikes and being with nature are other ways I like to slow down.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
I love Shanghai. I lived there for 5 years and had the opportunity to explore and get acquainted with it very well. I know a big city is not a typical choice for relaxation, but I love the energy and the vibrance of Shanghai. The beautiful way the old and new co-exist, the quaint lanes of the French Concession, the art galleries, hidden coffee shops, and the fascinating skyline.
Everyone in business should read this book:
“SQ21: The Twenty-one Skills of Spiritual Intelligence,” by Cindy Wigglesworth.
The author says, “The capacity of the leader constrains the capacity of the organization.”
This book translates some of the most admired qualities of spiritual heroes like Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, and Martin Luther King Jr. into 21 tangible skills that can be developed to achieve personal growth and develop organizational leadership.
Shameless plug for your business:
Nishita Fine Jewelry is a boutique jewelry brand that is inspired by real, smart, mindful women. The pieces are delicate, modern and comfortable; designed to be worn every day, take you from day to night, and to last a lifetime. With 4 generations of jewelry legacy, exceptional craftsmanship, and ethical practices, each piece comes directly from our atelier to you. You don’t have to choose between high quality and accessible prices ― you get both. Buying jewelry can truly be the beautiful experience it should be.
How can people connect with you?
Email: [email protected]
Twitter handle?
@nishitafinejewelry
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To hear how entrepreneurs around the world overcome their challenges, search your favourite podcast platform for ‘CallumConnects‘ to hear a 5-minute daily breakdown.
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started, built, and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder and CEO of MBH Corporation PLC. He is the author of three best-selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’, ‘Agglomerate’, and ‘Entrepreneurial Investing’.
Connect with Callum on Twitter and LinkedIn
Download free copies of his books at www.callumlaing.com
