Zen Diamond’s Mumbai Flagship Store Opens, India Operations Led by Neil Sonawala

New Delhi [India], August 23: Turkey-based Zen Diamond, a distinguished diamond jewellery retailer with over 400 retail stores across Europe, USA, Middle East and more, announces the grand opening of its first and flagship store in Mumbai’s jewellery hub, Bandra (West).

Emil Guzelis, Chairman of Zen Diamond Group, has partnered with Neil Sonawala to lead the Zen Diamond business in India. Guzelis and Sonawala, both have a special connection to jewellery and come from a long lasting relationship with the industry.

1. You are located in Mumbai’s jewellery hub, how do you plan to differentiate Zen Diamond from other jewellery brands in India? Tell us about Zen Diamond’s USP’s.

Emil: We love India, and India loves its jewellery. And what better place to have our first store than in Mumbai, and that too in Mumbai’s prominent jewellery hub of Bandra (West). Our USP, even in Turkey lies in meticulous craftsmanship, and unique features such as the hidden diamond symbolizing positivity, a gift from our side to all our customers. We continue to keep this intact in our India merchandising as well. We collaborate with top European and international designers to offer stylish, high-quality pieces at accessible prices. Our commitment to timeless elegance and an elevated retail experience coupled with our strategic location in Mumbai, allows us to offer a truly distinctive experience in the Indian market.

2. What trends do you observe in Indian consumer preferences for diamond jewellery, and how important is customization for them?

Neil: Indian consumers increasingly seek a blend of tradition and modernity in their diamond jewellery. They favour timeless, elegant designs that can be worn everyday as well as for special occasions. For the modern Indian woman, jewellery and diamonds are also a way of expressing their unique identity, living in the present, and celebrating joy in their everyday moments. Additionally, with young consumers preferring branded jewellery, Zen Diamond promises impeccable craftsmanship at affordable prices. At Zen Diamond, we offer a range of options, from our Signature Solitaire and Diamond Cluster collections to bespoke designs that cater to individual tastes. Whether it’s selecting specific gemstones or designing unique settings, we ensure each piece resonates with our customers’ desires and becomes a part of them.

3. How does the government’s ‘Make In India’ initiative play a role in crafting Zen Diamond’s jewellery?

Neil: Our joint venture with Antalia Jewellery Pvt. Ltd. allows us to design and manufacture collections tailored to these preferences. Aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, we proudly craft our jewellery locally, combining global quality with modern Indian sensibilities.

4. How many additional stores do you plan to open in India, and what is the projected timeline for this expansion?
Emil: This is just the start. Our plan is to open 5 stores in Mumbai itself and then hyper-expand to 100 self-operated and franchise stores across India in the next 7 years. While we are also currently building an e-commerce website, we will have retail outlets in Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Jaipur too.

5. Tell us about the price range in India compared to your prices in other countries?
Neil: Zen Diamond is built on the principle of branded jewellery with meticulous craftsmanship, yet at affordable prices. Just like the global retail network, the price range in India is similarly structured. Starting price for diamond jewellery is as low as Rs 15,000/- ranging up towards heavy bridal and statement pieces too. Fashion and lifestyle accessories start as low as Rs 3,000/-. It is affordable, versatile and statement, making it a great option for gifting.

6. Tell us about the after sale services and buy back policies at Zen Diamond
Emil: At Zen Diamond, our exchange and return policies are carefully designed to align with global standards, ensuring that our customers feel confident in every purchase they make. We offer the flexibility to return or exchange items, allowing customers to easily upgrade to our latest collections. Our commitment to exceptional design and craftsmanship, combined with affordable pricing, has made us a trusted brand worldwide. We’re confident that Indian consumers will not only love our pieces but will also appreciate the value and trust that comes with being part of the Zen Diamond family, leading to long-term loyalty.

Located at Unit 1, Ground floor, 36 Turned Road, Bandra (West), Mumbai, India, Zen Diamond is now open Monday – Sunday from 11am – 9pm.