As fashion continues to embrace bold self-expression, statement jewellery is once again taking center stage. Moving beyond delicate chains and minimalist accessories, consumers are increasingly gravitating toward pieces that tell a story, celebrate craftsmanship, and make a distinctive visual impact.
Among the brands leading this shift is Apala by Sumit, a luxury jewellery label known for creating sculptural designs that blur the boundaries between adornment and art. Through its latest limited-edition collection, the brand is reimagining sterling silver as a medium for storytelling, craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury.
A Design Philosophy Rooted in Art and Heritage
Founded by designer Sumit Sawhney, Apala by Sumit draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including mythology, architecture, spirituality, nature, travel, and global art movements.
The brand’s name is derived from the Sanskrit word Apala, meaning “most beautiful,” reflecting its focus on creating jewellery that is both visually striking and culturally meaningful.
Rather than following seasonal fashion trends, the label focuses on developing collectible pieces that combine historical influences with modern aesthetics. Each creation is designed to function not merely as an accessory but as an artistic expression that carries its own narrative.
This approach has earned the brand recognition among celebrities including Deepika Padukone, Sonam Kapoor, Vidya Balan, Kriti Sanon, and Alia Bhatt, who have worn its designs for film promotions, editorial shoots, and public appearances.
Why Sterling Silver Remains Central to the Brand
While gold dominates much of the luxury jewellery market, Sawhney sees sterling silver as a uniquely versatile material.
According to the designer, silver allows greater creative flexibility during the design process, enabling experimentation with sculptural forms, intricate detailing, textures, and handcrafted finishes.
Its adaptability supports multiple stages of refinement, allowing artisans to carve, reshape, and perfect a piece before it reaches its final form.
This creative freedom plays a critical role in the brand’s ability to produce jewellery that resembles miniature sculptures rather than conventional ornaments.
Handcrafted by Artisans Across India
One of the defining features of Apala by Sumit is its commitment to traditional craftsmanship.
Every piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans using techniques that have been passed down through generations. These include:
- Repoussé metalwork
- Hand engraving
- Sculptural carving
- Stone inlay techniques
- Precision stone setting
- Detailed hand-finishing
Many designs require months of work, with individual components carefully created and assembled by hand.
The brand collaborates with artisans from various regions of India, bringing together specialized skills and regional craft traditions to create designs that feel both contemporary and deeply rooted in heritage.
Turning Jewellery Into Collectible Art
The latest collection demonstrates how jewellery can function as wearable art.
Crafted primarily in sterling silver and layered with 22-karat gold accents, the pieces feature precious and semi-precious gemstones integrated into highly sculptural forms.
Rather than prioritizing symmetry or convention, many of the designs embrace bold artistic compositions that draw inspiration from ancient architecture, sacred symbols, historical artifacts, and natural forms.
The result is jewellery that invites closer observation and rewards appreciation of detail.
The Creative Journey Behind Every Piece
Sawhney’s artistic perspective was shaped long before he entered the jewellery industry.
Formally trained in art, he developed an early fascination with the process of transforming ideas into physical objects. Growing up in a family of designers further deepened his appreciation for craftsmanship and design thinking.
His extensive travels through museums, historical sites, palaces, and cultural landmarks also influenced the visual language that now defines his work.
Many of these experiences continue to inform the intricate details found within his collections.
Celebrating Individuality Over Trends
Although the jewellery industry frequently evolves around seasonal trends, Sawhney believes the most enduring style statement is individuality.
He points to the growing popularity of asymmetrical earrings as an example of how consumers are increasingly embracing unconventional forms.
For him, jewellery should serve as a reflection of personal identity rather than simply following current fashion movements.
This philosophy aligns with a broader shift in luxury fashion, where consumers are seeking pieces with deeper meaning, craftsmanship, and artistic value.
A Growing Appreciation for Statement Jewellery
The return of maximalist fashion has created renewed interest in jewellery that commands attention.
Consumers today are increasingly investing in pieces that offer longevity, craftsmanship, and a unique design perspective rather than fast-changing trends.
Brands like Apala by Sumit are benefiting from this shift by offering creations that combine artistic expression with traditional craftsmanship.
As luxury consumers continue to value originality and storytelling, sculptural jewellery crafted from sterling silver is emerging as one of the most compelling categories in contemporary fashion.
With prices starting from Rs 5,000 and collections available online, Apala by Sumit continues to demonstrate how jewellery can transcend ornamentation and become a form of wearable art—one that celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and individuality in equal measure.
