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Page 1 of 5 She’s India’s most treasured, niche jewellery designer. A sparkling
combination of a seasoned gemsmith and an astute entrepreneur who has won
international acclaim. And is the only individual in her line of work who
has been able to power her eye for detail with an intricate understanding
of carat cut techniques. Poonam Soni speaks of the making of her
priceless affair…
I got married early, at 18
Even my mother got married when she was 17. I believe that it was a boon
as I too had my kids during the initial years of my marriage. Today, both
my daughters are settled in their own areas of interest and I can devote a
lot more time to my work without feeling guilty about neglecting them. My
eldest Kriti, is also a jewellery designer, and has just had a baby. My
youngest Esha is pursuing her chosen career in designing accessories like
bags and belts.
My work sustains me
I think it’s better if husband and wife have separate careers. It helps
preserve individuality and prevents ego clashes and friction owing to
interference. My husband has his won enterprise. We are different
individuals who share a superb level of friendship. Most people find it
tough to believe that as a woman, I am heading a corporate set up without
my husband’s help.
I have always been ambitious
And I make no bones about it. I started designing jewellery as a hobby,
from home, when my kids were small, so that I could strike a balance
between my work and family. I never had time for myself. Earlier on, I
used to schedule clients’ appointments in the afternoon when my kids were
through with lunch after returning from school. It was crazy, at times,
but I did it on my own. I am my own support system. My in-laws and parents
are based in New Delhi. It worked out well as therefore there was never
any interference
A focused approach has been my mainstay
I think what helped me establish myself was my focused approach. I always
dream big and I knew I wanted to own my own signature line, cater to high
end customers and go international. Whereas several jewellers offered me a
counter in their showrooms, I knew this what not what I wanted. I worked
out the mechanics at the inception: started my own casting unit and
accounts department. It was to be an exclusive, professionally run set up,
not a home grown business.
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