We were lucky to catch up with Ruchita Newrekar recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Ruchita thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you wish you had started sooner?

I was a good academic student in high school. So when it was finally the time to choose my major for under-graduate studies, I went for something scientifically intensive like engineering in chemical technology in spite of being aware of the creative side. I failed to consider what I was thoroughly passionate about then and went for a more obvious and safe option. Four years later, after I graduated, I realized that I am not truly happy being an engineer even though I am adequately good at it and decided to pursue the idea of having a career as a professional jewelry designer. I have been terribly happy ever since, but often find myself wishing I had recognized and worked on my creative aspirations sooner.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I have always been drawn to art and craftsmanship. I spent hours creating intricate designs and experimenting with different materials. My passion for jewelry designing and making grew as I grew older, and after completing my education in fine arts, I decided to become a full time jewelry designer, both contemporary and commercial. I started by showcasing my jewelry pieces at local craft fairs and art exhibitions. Some of the biggest motivations were when the jewelry I made caught the eyes of many visitors, and when I began receiving positive feedback and encouraging compliments from customers. Emboldened by that kind of response, I decided to take my jewelry business online, via my website and Instagram to reach a wider audience. As I delved deeper into the industry, I saw the potential to work for and with other artists and influencers. Driven by the thirst to keep learning and exploring more about the market, I began approaching this idea by networking with important individuals. After sufficient dedication and strategic approach, I worked with the jewelry team of major fashion labels like Tory Burch and Kate Spade New York and designed jewelry for them. These opportunities taught me so much more about having a successful professional career and brought a fresh perspective to my designs. I learnt how the jewelry industry functions on a global scale and how it’s possible to turn a passion for creativity into a successful full-time profession. Now I make and sell conceptual contemporary jewelry while also designing collections for commercial companies.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)

While NFTs can offer some advantages in certain contexts, I absolutely think there are also reasons why it may not be ideal for jewelry to exist solely as NFTs. One of the primary reasons people purchase and cherish jewelry is for its physicality and aesthetic appeal. I am attached to the idea that the jewelry I make serves as a form of wearable art that can be admired, touched, and passed down through generations. The pleasure of wearing a physical piece and the emotional value attached to it cannot be replicated by owning a digital representation. I definitely believe NFTs offer unique opportunities in the world of digital art and collectibles, however I also believe that it’s not ready to replace traditional jewelry’s tangible and sentimental value just yet.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I think along with financial compensation and recognition, I have always yearned for a fulfilling purpose to accompany my work. Reading the reviews of clients that bought my jewelry and how happy it made the person they gifted it to, certainly serves that purpose. Sometimes, they buy it for themselves to celebrate accomplishment of various forms in their lives. Listening to these stories makes my day and I am all over again reminded of why I chose jewelry designing as a professional career. Commercial jewelry can be perceived as materialistic and inessential, but a customer imparts meaning to it. Making them happy is a goal I work for, and the sense of fulfilment I receive from it is a robust driving force to continue working.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ruchitanewrekar.com
• Instagram: @ruchitajewelry

Image Credits
Photographs by Rachel Smolka. Model : Kayla Smolka.