Do like a peacock

UR national bird has inspired everyone from Alexander McQueen to Manish Arora (pop princess Katy Perry was spotted in Arora’s peacock dress at the Japanese MTV Video Music Awards in 2009).And if you step into any jewellery store in the city, you will find several pieces inspired by the feathered creature.That said, Delhi-based jewellery designer, Alpana Gujral, with 25 years of experience, believes the motif is timeless.Inspired by both indigenous traditional j ewe l l e r y and other cultures, Gujral has showcased her collections in cities like New York, London, Hong Kong and Dubai, and her latest, Neelaya, promises to be a keeper.“Drawing inspiration from the peacock isn’t new, but I have celebrated the elegance of the peacock, whether in form or colour,’’ says the Delhi School of Arts alumnus, adding, ‘‘I love what the peacock stands for: it is sacred and considered a sign of prosperity.’’ Made for Chennai The line of diamond-studded cuffs, earrings, necklaces, bracelets and cocktail rings feature the peacock motif in royal blues, iridescent greens and subtle gold.‘‘Chennai is evolving really well as a market, with a good sense of design and style,’’ says Gujral, adding that there is a gradual shift from traditional jewellery.‘‘I just make what I like.Jewellery is not fashion driven.Now, when you are looking at jewellery in terms of design, people don’t really bother how much gold and diamonds it has.Design rules.” The drawing board Involved in interior and furniture designing before the Gold Control act was abolished in 1991, Gujral is inspired by her mother, another jewellery designer, and her artist father, Satish Gujral.‘‘I also take inspiration from traditional Indian jewellery and brands like Cartier.I’m a huge art deco fan, from clothing and art to jewellery and designs,’’ she says, revealing that she enjoys travelling, sufi music and cricket.