Agate Pendant Necklaces from India

"Hello, I am Shubhra Singh and I was born in Bihar. While studying for a BSc in Physics, I also took a three-year diploma course in fine arts. Music and art have always fascinated me and while growing up, I used to paint a lot and I also enjoyed music. I remember when my aunt gave me an old sitar. I was 20 years old at the time, and I was so exited to own such priceless piece that I immediately started to learn how to play it. I was very quiet among friends and most of the time I spent my time with my brother, who also had a common interest in music. He used to enjoy playing violin while I played sitar – we had such fun!

"As I grew up, I decided to do something more substantial for my career. I took up web designing after doing an MBA, then I worked for an IT company for a year. Though this work was interesting, somehow I was not satisfied inside. I wanted to do something of my own, free from any ties. Then one day, I thought to myself why not use my creativity to design jewelry. This idea motivated me take a two-year course in jewelry design.

"I learned the basics of silversmith, like cutting sheet, wiring, melting, stone setting, finishing and polishing – basically all the pre-requisites to be a jeweler. When I mastered the techniques, I needed to start designing so I took a course in enameling called meenakari work. When I finished the course, I started venturing into the competitive market of jewelries. My parents were apprehensive, but when they recognized I had talent, they knew that I could make it.

"After a while, the time came for me to set up my workshop properly, under the Sanskrit term Dyuti, meaning 'radiance.' Slowly people began to appreciate my work, and with the kind support of my well-wishers, I was fortunate to participate in quite a few exhibitions sponsored by embassies, or at the residences of foreign dignitaries such as the Canadian High Commissioner' or British High Commissioner's. I have also participated in one of the most talked about exhibitions, the Delhi Blind Relief Association.

"In just one year I was able to design five collections. My plans for the future include expanding, and Novica offers me the opportunity of doing so."