Ganjam has remained a legend in diamond jewellery in Karnataka since 1889 and even today has been crafting traditional jewellery for contemporary women.

Ganjam was founded by Ganjam Nagappa in 1889. The family hailed from a small town in Andhra Pradesh called "Ganjam", which, in those days, used to export gold. They then moved to Hampi in Karnataka, the state known for trading precious stones and gems.

Initially, the family was into counseling people on precious coloured stones and diamonds. This gave them a lot of practical knowledge and, slowly, they began to position themselves into the business. In its early days, Ganjam enjoyed the patronage of the Royal family of Mysore. Ganjam became the jewellers of the Maharaja on the recommendation of the Wodeyars. Later the Ganjam family moved to a smaller town near Srirangapatanam, which was the commercial and political hub then. The Ganjams, having created a niche for themselves as masters in precious jewels and Carnatic jewellery, also traded in 'kasturi', a kind of musk.

As Bangalore began to grow in importance in the late 19th century, the Ganjams moved here. Ganjam's reputation began to grow and, in fact, so wide spread was the fame that soon its craftsmen travelled all the way to the distant hill kingdom of Nepal to train the jewelers of the Nepalese royal family on traditional jewellery making. Ganjam is credited with introducing diamond jewellery in Karnataka and it is recognised for its expertise in dealing with pearls and rubies. Ganjam's jewellery reflect the richness of tradition with the elegant touch of modernity that is crafted to suit every mood and occasion.

Diamonds sold at Ganjam conform to the Gemological Institute America (GIA) standards. The Ganjam legacy continues even today and it is a respected and trusted household name in Karnataka.

Click here for an interview with Mr Umesh Ganjam