A highly respected figure in the global coloured gemstone industry, Nirmal Bardiya heads RMC Group, a leading exporter of coloured gemstones in all varieties, shapes and sizes. He has also held multiple leadership positions in Indian and international trade associations.

Born and raised in Jaipur, Bardiya developed his passion for coloured gemstones from an early age and was determined to make his hometown a vibrant gemstone centre that attracts buyers from all over the world. He started small-scale trading while in college and later developed this into a full-fledged business by identifying and then filling gaps in the supply chain. 

While growing RMC into a multinational enterprise that has received the Highest Export Award from India’s Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) over 10 times, Bardiya also looked out for the interests of the local and global gemstone trade. 

When the lack of raw materials loomed as an issue, he embarked on extensive international travels to obtain consistent supply both for RMC and the whole industry. 

“Through collaborative efforts with the Government of India and GJEPC, we organised raw material shows, inviting renowned global miners such as Gemfields to offer their rough stones to the industry. This close partnership between major miners and the Indian and global industry has significantly strengthened the supply chain,” he shared.

Trade initiatives
Of his many accomplishments, Bardiya takes immense pride in his pioneering efforts to establish Jaipur as a hub for coloured gemstone trading while fostering the sustainable growth of the Indian gem and jewellery sector. 

He initiated a trade show to highlight Jaipur’s capabilities and became convenor of the Jewelers Association Show (JAS) for eight years. He served three terms as president of the Jaipur Jewelers Association and now sits as GJEPC’s regional chairman for Rajasthan.

Bardiya was also vice president of the Federation of Rajasthan Trade and Industries; director of the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery, Jaipur; and vice president and treasurer of the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA).

“All of this hard work has brought the industry to new heights and has connected me from my hometown to the entire world, resulting in fruitful business for RMC as well,” he said.

Bardiya’s tireless and inspiring work within the global industry has won him many accolades including the Gem Dealer of the Decade Award from the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association, Manufacturer of the Year – Coloured Gemstones from the JNA Awards (now known as the Jewellery World Awards) in 2015 and 2016, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from ICA in 2017.

He now dreams of making Jaipur a hub for fine coloured gemstone jewellery and, towards this end, is leading investment in skills development, new technology and marketing strategies.  

Bardiya told JNA, “My vision is to further engrave the name of Jaipur on the world map as the ultimate destination for coloured gemstone manufacturing and a vibrant hub for exquisite jewellery. I am committed to continuously enhancing our presence and reputation in the global gemstone industry, solidifying Jaipur's position as a beacon of craftsmanship and creativity. With every endeavour, I strive to showcase the exceptional talent and capabilities that Jaipur has to offer to the world.”

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