Our artisans, the talented hands that make our vision a reality are the heart and soul of Zariin. Their tremendous skills that transform metal and stones to a wearable piece of art is a reflection of generations of techniques, talent, patience and craft. And even though, the modern times are challenging it all by the use of machines, their hands can create what best of machines still cannot. From the most interesting textures to precise detailing, they can do it all by putting in hours of labour. Look at them skilfully working and you will truly be amazed at what the human hands can do and achieve.
When you purchase a Zariin, you are not just getting a coveted piece of jewellery for yourself but adding value to the lives of several talented hands that crafted your favourite Zariin for you. Our artisans pour hours, days or sometimes weeks to craft each piece for you. We at Zariin not only believe in celebrating beauty but also its makers. And in our endeavour to do that, we bring forth, just one of the faces of the many hands behind our jewellery. In conversation with Suresh Mandal.
(Please note that the conversation has been translated to English)
At what age did you learn this skill?
Suresh: At the age of 20. It wasn’t easy as I need a lot of practice to master the craft.
What part of the process are you involved in?
Suresh: I work on ironing and shouldering. These are bench techniques applied during stone setting and finishing stage. Ironing is giving the final finishing touches to a piece after the gemstone has been set which involves smoothening, eliminating scratches, uneven textures or flattening. Shouldering is basically aesthetically securing the stone. It’s a combination of art and engineering.
How difficult was it to make this your career?
Suresh: With advent of machines and cost of production going up, craftsmanship might not give you as much as you put in. Additionally, it was difficult to understand and master the intricacies involved in hand crafting jewellery. It was only after 3-4 years that I gained confidence and developed a fondness for ironing and shouldering.
What shift have you noticed in the jewellery space in the last few years?
Suresh: Earlier the art was even more difficult as every single production step was achieved with hands but now we do use machines for some processes which has made it slightly easier.
Are you teaching your kids this skill?
Suresh: We all aspire a better life for our children. I’m afraid sustenance is a challenge in this line. Not sure if I will pass this down to my kids. This is mainly happening because we live in a world where people get machine produced jewellery at fractions of cost. There are very few who want to pay more just because the piece is handcrafted.
Is there any jewellery that women in your family have been eyeing?
Suresh: Yes! My wife loves all the pieces that I have made and showed her. Maybe I will make one specially for her.
What do you like to do in your off time?
Suresh: I like to spend time with my family and and watch a good match of cricket. I love cricket!
How does it feel when you see people, celebrities wearing the pieces?
Suresh: Almost unreal and hard to believe! It is very motivating to see people wear and cherish something you crafted with so much effort.
For this Earth Day, we at Zariin are offering a special discount. 5% of all the proceeds will be donated by us to Artisans Welfare Fund.
