HARAKH by Harakh Mehta: A Beacon of Joy, Craftsmanship, and Sustainability in Fine Jewelry, Recognized by FGI
The world of haute joaillerie is witnessing the ascent of a truly distinctive brand, HARAKH, founded by the visionary diamantaire Harakh Mehta. With profound pride, HARAKH announces its distinguished recognition as a fine jewelry finalist in the highly prestigious 2020 Fashion Group International (FGI) Rising Star Awards. Adding an even more significant layer to this achievement, HARAKH has also been named a finalist for the inaugural FGI Sustainability Award, marking a pivotal moment for ethical luxury in the industry. Harakh Mehta is set to join an illustrious assembly of nominees, esteemed FGI members, influential board members, and generous sponsors at the 23rd annual luncheon and awards ceremony. This celebrated event, honoring the extraordinary accomplishments of emerging talents and innovative entrepreneurs, will take place at the iconic Cipriani 42nd Street in Midtown Manhattan on Tuesday, January 28th, where the global fashion community will gather to fete these remarkable individuals and brands.
A Journey of Distinction: From Mumbai to Global Acclaim
Harakh Mehta, a fourth-generation diamantaire, brought his lifelong passion and profound expertise to fruition in 2017 with the establishment of his eponymous high jewelry brand, HARAKH. Operating from the vibrant cultural hubs of Mumbai and New York, HARAKH quickly carved a niche for itself, blending traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary vision. The brand’s journey has been marked by a series of notable milestones and escalating acclaim, reflecting its rapid rise in the highly competitive luxury market. A significant highlight prior to these FGI nominations was HARAKH’s appointment as the Official Jeweler of le Bal, Paris in 2019 – an exclusive honor that underscored its emerging status among the world’s elite jewelry houses. These recent FGI nominations further cement HARAKH’s reputation for exceptional design, unparalleled quality, and a deeply meaningful brand ethos that resonates with discerning clientele worldwide.
“My primary motivation in establishing the HARAKH haute joaillerie brand was to infuse the spirit of pure joy into the realm of high jewelry,” states Harakh Mehta. “I am truly overwhelmed by the tremendous growth we’ve experienced and the overwhelmingly positive reception the brand has garnered in such a remarkably short span of time. To be counted among the distinguished pantheon of past and present FGI nominees, individuals and brands who have significantly shaped the industry, is an immense honor that speaks volumes about our dedication and vision.” Mehta’s words encapsulate the brand’s core mission: to create not just beautiful objects, but pieces that evoke profound happiness and a sense of wonder in those who wear them.
Pioneering Sustainable Luxury: A Heartfelt Commitment
At the very core of Harakh Mehta’s personal and professional philosophy lies a profound compassion for the environment and an unwavering commitment to ethical practices. This dedication is not merely a marketing strategy but an intrinsic part of his being, deeply embedded in every facet of HARAKH’s operations. From the initial conceptualization of a design to its meticulous completion, Mehta personally oversees each step of the creation process, ensuring that every piece of HARAKH jewelry embodies a truly sustainable approach. This hands-on involvement guarantees that environmental responsibility and ethical sourcing are not just buzzwords, but tangible realities woven into the very fabric of the brand.
Mehta also places immense value on transparency, believing it to be fundamental to the integrity of his exceptional jewelry. This commitment to openness extends across all aspects of crafting. HARAKH proudly holds significant certifications that underscore its pioneering role in sustainable luxury. Its manufacturing facility in India achieved a landmark distinction by becoming the first in the country to be certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council’s (RJC) stringent 2013 Code of Practices. This certification is a testament to HARAKH’s adherence to the highest ethical, social, and environmental standards, ensuring responsible sourcing and production throughout its supply chain, from mine to market. Furthermore, HARAKH is a certified Fairmined Licensee Brand, which signifies its direct support for artisanal and small-scale miners who extract gold responsibly, providing them with fair wages, safe working conditions, and promoting environmental protection. These certifications are not just accolades; they represent a deep-seated belief in creating beauty without compromise, ensuring that every HARAKH piece tells a story of integrity and care.
“Ever since I can remember, spirituality and sustainability have been an inherent part of my very DNA,” reflects Harakh Mehta. “This core belief extends seamlessly into my daily lifestyle, forming an integral part of my value system and guiding every decision, both personal and professional. It is this deeply personal commitment that I strive to infuse into every creation at HARAKH, ensuring that our jewelry not only adorns but also inspires and reflects a conscious choice.” This ethos sets HARAKH apart, positioning it not merely as a luxury brand, but as a movement towards a more conscious and responsible future for fine jewelry.
The FGI Rising Star Sustainability Award: A New Horizon for Ethical Fashion
The 2020 FGI Rising Star Awards hold particular significance this year with the introduction of the new FGI Rising Star Sustainability Award. This groundbreaking recognition is proudly sponsored and presented for the first time by Maison de Mode, co-founded by the influential figures Hassan Pierre and Amanda Hearst. The establishment of this award underscores a critical shift within the fashion industry towards recognizing and celebrating brands that prioritize environmental and social responsibility alongside design excellence. As the industry heads into the 2020 FGI Rising Star Awards, Harakh Mehta’s unique vision and higher purpose unequivocally position HARAKH as a rising talent truly worth watching. The brand’s unwavering dedication to integrating joy, spirituality, and unparalleled craftsmanship with rigorous ethical standards makes it a standard-bearer for the future of luxury, inspiring both consumers and fellow designers to embrace a more mindful approach to creation and consumption.
About HARAKH: Where Joy is Forged in Fine Jewels
Harakh Mehta founded his eponymous brand, HARAKH, with a profound and singular higher purpose: to impart an undeniable sense of joy in every creation. This philosophy is deeply ingrained in the brand’s identity, as the name “HARAKH” in his native language directly translates to “a deep sense of joy and happiness.” This ethos is beautifully encapsulated and cemented in the brand’s distinctive “tear of joy” logo, an elegant and meaningful symbol that is meticulously stamped on every single piece of HARAKH haute joaillerie. HARAKH transcends the conventional benchmarks of high jewelry, pushing boundaries with an unwavering commitment to unparalleled quality and artistry. Every intricate detail is richly finessed and expertly crafted to the absolute highest standard, ensuring that each piece is a masterpiece. The brand exclusively features rare and exceptional DEF color, IF-VS clarity diamonds – the epitome of diamond quality – all meticulously set in either 18-karat gold or platinum. HARAKH’s limited edition pieces have earned a stellar reputation, frequently sought after and auctioned by leading international houses. This dedication to quality craftsmanship and unique design has cultivated a loyal and expansive global clientele, including esteemed royal families, celebrated sports figures, renowned celebrities, and prominent personalities from the entertainment world, all drawn to the brand’s exceptional beauty and heartfelt philosophy.
About Harakh Mehta: A Legacy Forged in Diamonds and Vision
Harakh Mehta was initiated into the enchanting world of jewelry from a tender age, inheriting a rich legacy from a long lineage of distinguished diamond cutters and polishers. Born and raised amidst the vibrant culture of Mumbai, he pursued his higher education, completing his graduation in the United States. After gaining valuable experience through a brief stint in management consulting, Harakh’s true calling beckoned him back to the captivating realm of jewelry. He returned to his native India to immerse himself in the family’s esteemed gem and jewelry business, where his passion flourished. Harakh is far more than just a jeweler; he is a passionate artist, deeply rooted in his rich culture and profoundly inspired by his ancestral background from the historic and artistically rich lands of Gujarat and Rajasthan. These regions, renowned for their intricate craftsmanship and vibrant heritage, continually fuel his creative vision. Harakh currently resides in Mumbai, sharing his life with his parents, wife, and children, maintaining strong family ties. Beyond his professional endeavors, he is an avid traveler, constantly seeking new inspirations and perspectives. He also diligently practices yoga and meditation, rituals that not only contribute to his personal well-being but also deepen his spiritual connection, which he openly states as a driving force behind his sustainable and joyful approach to jewelry design. Further insights into his brand and philosophy can be explored at www.harakh.com.
About The Fashion Group International (FGI): Nurturing Fashion’s Future Since 1930
The Fashion Group International (FGI) stands as a venerable institution in the global fashion industry, founded in 1930 by a pioneering group of 17 accomplished women. This global, non-profit association has tirelessly pursued its mission to provide invaluable resources, foster essential connections, and offer robust career support to its expansive network of over 5,000 members worldwide. FGI has established itself as an indispensable industry resource, serving as a vital nexus that connects its members to a wealth of information, boundless inspiration, crucial educational opportunities, and exclusive industry events. It provides unparalleled access to esteemed industry leaders, global resources, rich historic archives, established professionals, burgeoning new talent, groundbreaking innovators, influential tastemakers, and celebrated award winners. Most importantly, FGI excels at connecting members with each other, fostering a collaborative environment that sparks creativity and enables the creation of truly amazing things within the dynamic world of fashion. In 2020, FGI continues to adapt and evolve, leveraging significant advances in technology to fulfill its mission in innovative and exciting ways, ensuring its relevance and impact for generations to come.
