Shilpa Shetty Kundra has come a long way since her Baazigar days, the movie that made her an overnight star – and made leopard print one of the hottest trends in the ’90s. Now married to businessman Raj Kundra, and mum to two-year-old Viaan, the actress is putting films on the backburner to pursue her ambitions as an entrepreneur. Shetty recently acquired listed company, Hindusthan Safety Glass Industries, has Yoga and Physiotherapy centres (YaP), owns an IPL team, and has launched Satyug Gold with her husband, even designing a line for the brand. She credits her husband with having the business acumen to push her creativity forward. For her, the best thing about the brand (which has a range of affordable jewellery) is how it has helped gold – an aspirational metal – “also become affordable”.
ELLE chatted with the actress about her jewellery essentials.
ELLE: What was the first piece of jewellery you bought for yourself?
Shilpa Shetty Kundra: In our community, when we go for a wedding ceremony, it is to show off our jewellery – that’s how much importance we give it. So growing up, we always had little knick-knacks, but the first [piece of] jewellery I bought with my own money was a name-tag that I had wanted for a long time.
ELLE: What’s your favourite piece of jewellery?
SSK: I love the mangalsutra nazar bracelet and the evil eye range I designed. I wear the butterfly [one] very often as a pendant.
ELLE: Do you own any heirloom jewellery pieces?
SSK: My grandmother used to wear these diamond earrings – the only piece of jewellery she ever wore. It was very close to her. I really want those earrings – right now, they are with my mother for safe keeping.
ELLE: Is there some kind of jewellery that you will never buy?
SSK: I don’t like jewellery that’s too loud. I prefer polkis and diamonds to be larger in size but understated. I feel jewellery should be understated and still make a statement.
ELLE: What’s a must-have in your book?
SSK: One [piece] that is timeless, looks expensive (even if it’s not) and that makes you feel special and happy.
ELLE: What will you pass down to your family?
SSK: I wish I could take the jewellery with me once I die, but unfortunately I can’t. I love my jewellery and I’m sure all of it will go to Viaan’s wife.
ELLE: What are your tips for brides-to-be?
SSK: The jewellery shouldn’t overpower you and [you should] wear what you are comfortable with.
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