Nihal Shah shines bright with a groundbreaking jewellery design win

NIHAL Shah has reached new heights in the world of jewellery design, clinching second place at the PlatAfrica 2025 New Horizons competition in Johannesburg. 

This achievement highlights the talent and dedication of the 32-year-old designer and co-director at Vijay Shah Concepts of Durban North. 

Shah's relationship with jewellery runs deep. Watching his father and grandfather pioneer the Durban jewellery industry, he was inspired from a young age. 

"From a tender age, I was mesmerised by the process of transforming raw metal into intricate, meaningful jewellery pieces," said Shah. 

He embarked on his journey in jewellery design shortly after matriculating in 2010, enrolling at the Durban University of Technology. While there, he earned a national diploma in jewellery design and manufacture in 2013, followed by a B.Tech degree in 2015. 

Always eager to sharpen his skills, he further pursued a postgraduate course in commercial jewellery design and product development in Johannesburg.

As a designer, Shah has embraced innovation, notably introducing computer-aided design (CAD) systems and 3D jewellery manufacturing techniques at Vijay Shah Concepts. 

"Our goal is to redefine the boundaries of jewellery design, infusing modern technology with traditional craftsmanship," he said. 

At the PlatAfrica competition, Shah showcased his winning design, aptly named "Stratos" - a futuristic unisex ring that boasts versatility in its wearability. 

Inspired by pop culture icons such as Lady Gaga, Kylie Jenner, and The Weeknd, he envisioned a piece capable of transforming in harmony with the wearer’s mood and style. 

"Stratos is a remarkable adaptability that allows this unique jewellery to be a cosmic fusion of art, fashion, and technology." 

Shah’s journey is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation in jewellery design. 

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