The second session in the Sustainability Heroes Panel Series at Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) 2025 will explore the rapidly evolving landscape of consumer expectations around sustainability in the jewellery sector. 

By identifying early signals of change in consumer behaviour today, the “Luxury Meets Responsibility: Evolving Consumer Values in Fine Jewellery” panel discussion will provide jewellery businesses with strategic foresight to not only respond to future sustainability demands but to proactively shape them, creating competitive advantage while driving positive impact. 

The session takes place on September 18 from 2:30pm to 3:30pm at The Stage in the Grand Foyer of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. 

Sharing their insights on the subject are Hasu Dholakiya, second-generation entrepreneur at Hari Krishna Group and founder & CEO of HK Designs; Zulu Ghevriya, CEO and co-founder of Smiling Rocks Ltd; Paolo Poliero, business development manager of Legor Group SpA; Saskia Shutt, founder of Saskia Shutt Designs; and Arjun Sonkia, director of Valentine Silver International.

Drawing on emerging consumer research, demographic shifts and technological innovations, the panellists will examine how values-driven purchasing is transforming from niche to mainstream. 

Attendees will gain practical perspectives on how to future-proof their businesses through anticipatory sustainability innovation rather than reactive compliance.

This session will answer the following questions. How will definitions of “sustainable luxury” evolve and what new credentials or proof points will consumers demand from jewellery brands beyond current sustainability certifications? What role will technology play in enabling consumers to verify sustainability claims and how can jewellery companies prepare for unprecedented levels of supply chain transparency? What strategies should jewellery brands implement today to authentically connect with next-generation consumers who prioritise environmental and social impact alongside product quality and design?

Valentine Silver International and Legor Group SpA are two of the three winners of the Sustainability Leadership category of the Sustainability Awards 2025 by JWA (Jewellery World Awards). Hari Krishna Exports Pvt Ltd won the Environmental Stewardship Award while Smiling Rocks Ltd and Saskia Shutt Designs were among this year’s finalists.

The panel discussion will be moderated by JNA's Associate Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Ollie Quiniquini.

Meet the panellists

Hasu Dholakiya, second-generation entrepreneur at Hari Krishna Group and founder & CEO at H.K. Designs

A second-generation entrepreneur at Hari Krishna Group, Hasu Dholakiya has been instrumental in expanding the group’s footprint across continents. At just 19, he spearheaded the launch of its first overseas office in New York in 1999, marking the beginning of its international journey. By 2003, he transitioned the business toward finished diamond jewellery, establishing H.K. Designs as a trusted name among leading global retailers.

Blending heritage with innovation, Dholakiya introduced the ‘My Diamond Story’ initiative in 2010, pioneering traceability and narrative-driven jewellery well ahead of its time.

In 2018, he established Dholakia Lab Grown Diamonds, making the group  one of the earliest adopters in the segment. Today, the enterprise is among the world’s largest suppliers of both natural and lab-grown diamond jewellery, holding over 50 international patents. His acquisition of Lusix, an Israeli LGD innovator known for solar-powered technology, reflects his commitment to responsible innovation.

Beyond business, Dholakiya serves as a Board Director of Diamonds Do Good and Jewellers for Children, advocating for ethical practices and social impact. 

Zulu Ghevriya, CEO and co-founder of Smiling Rocks Ltd

Zulu Ghevriya is the CEO and co-founder of Smiling Rocks, the founder of Vedantti Jewellery, and the managing director of Prism Group. 

Zulu started his business with the natural diamond company Prism Group and has grown it into a globally recognised diamond and jewellery design house. In the early stages of his career, he pioneered the introduction of treated colour diamonds in Asia and worldwide.

With experience in diamond manufacturing and trading in India, as well as export expertise in Hong Kong, New York, and Europe, Ghevriya is a notable authority and welcomed consultant in his field.

In recognition of his achievements, Ghevriya was awarded the JNA Young Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2018. He has been invited to speak at multiple prestigious institutions and panel discussions, such as the London Business School, JCK/JNA/GJEPC/GDE events, to educate the industry on the current diamond and jewellery market and inspire the next generation of professionals.

Paolo Poliero, business development manager of Legor Group SpA

Paolo Poliero is the business development manager of Legor Group SpA, a company specialising in innovative and sustainable metal solutions (Master alloys and Plating solutions) for the jewellery and fashion sectors since 1979.

He holds a degree in International Markets from Ca’ Foscari University of Venice and has developed solid experience in international sales and market development, working closely with manufacturers and supply chain partners.

At Legor, he focuses on identifying new business opportunities and supporting clients in integrating responsible materials and efficient processes to enhance their product offering in line with industry and sustainability trends. 

Saskia Shutt, founder of Saskia Shutt Designs

Saskia Shutt, founder of Saskia Shutt Designs, established herself as an independent jeweller in 1999. Her artistic journey has been intricately woven with the allure of gemstones, serving as the radiant nucleus of her creative universe. Specialising in bespoke jewellery is not just her professional choice but a deeply personal commitment that resonates with the core of her artistic passion.

Saskia's philosophy transcends the conventional realm of creating jewellery; it extends to a profound connection with her clientele. Collaborating with clients to bring their visions to life is an exhilarating process, akin to sculpting dreams into tangible, three-dimensional pieces. 

Sustainability and traceability are the cornerstones of her craft. In alignment with her unwavering dedication to ethical practices, she is an active member of Ethical Metalsmiths (now the Community for Ethical Jewelry) and the Fair Luxury UK group. This affiliation propels her meticulously sourced precious metals and gemstones from artisanal small-scale mining operations, championing principles of transparency, traceability, gender equality, and responsible mining practices.

As a proud Fairmined licensee, her commitment extends globally, underscored by a recent exploration of Fairmined Eco gold mines in Peru and Colombia.

Arjun Sonkia, director of Valentine Silver International

Arjun Sonkia is the director of Valentine Silver International and the founder of Jewelpin. With over eight years of experience in jewellery manufacturing, he carries forward a legacy that has been part of his family for more than four decades.

His journey in the industry is driven by a deep passion for design, craftsmanship, and building businesses that merge tradition with modern demands. Beyond his professional work, Arjun is actively involved with Vidya Seva, an NGO focused on education, where he spends time with students and contributes to their growth.

Curious by nature, he enjoys travelling, meeting people, and learning from diverse perspectives, which often inspires his work and outlook on life. 

Click here to register for JGW 2025.