Indians love jewellery. We have always obsessed over gold, and now we can’t help but lust after platinum, diamonds and precious stones. According to the World Gold Council, Indians bought 662 tons of gold jewellery, valued at $26.9 billion, in 2014. This is a huge leap since 1995, when India surpassed China as the world’s largest consumer of gold. Meanwhile, in 2014 platinum retail sales in India grew by 28%, according to the Platinum Guild International.

These figures are important because they reflect how Indians can’t get enough of jewellery. No wonder jewellery designing is flourishing; it is one of the fastest growing industrial segments today. This isn’t surprising. Pieces made by a designer are far more creative, the placement of the stones is better, and there is extra attention paid to the artisanship.

Traditionally, jewellery was about financial position, status and family relics. Today it is more a style statement. People are not looking at jewellery to store in their lockers, but to use them often for occasions and to make an impression. Timeless jewellery is attracting buyers because it is sustainable and lasts a lifetime.

A career in jewellery designing is perfect for you if you have a sense of design, creativity and style. An education will enhance your skills and teach you new ones, such as stone cutting, engraving and polishing. It will also give you an understanding of precious stones and metals. Today, jewellery design courses are computer-aided, which is a step in the right direction.

As the demand for precious metal and stones soars, employment opportunities will open up too.  According to the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, the Indian gems and jewellery sector employs 1.8 million people; this number will increase over the next few years.

If you want to be a part of this booming industry, which also gives you an outlet for your creativity, there hasn’t been a better time than now.