The Inspiring Journey of 18 Solitaire

“India’s first brand to specialize in natural diamond engagement rings” is a statement that echoes the triumph of 18 Solitaire, a pioneering brand in the Indian jewelery market. Conceived as part of a visionary Start-up India campaign, 18 Solitaire quickly gained popularity and became the premier destination for natural diamond engagement rings in India.

Launched in February 2024, the brainchild of Ms. Shweta Sahadeva and her son Ishank Sahadeva, 18 Solitaire is born out of 90 years of experience in the jewelry industry. Following their success with Swarn Mahal Jewellers, the mother-son duo identified a significant gap in the market for specialty engagement rings and embarked on an entrepreneurial venture to bridge the gap. Through extensive research and a unique business model, they introduced 18 Solitaire to the world, aiming to standardize and revolutionize the Indian jewelry market.

In an unprecedented move, 18 Solitaire has secured development stage funding from an innovative venture, marking a historic development in the Indian jewelery segment. This achievement speaks volumes about the brand’s potential and the trust it has earned from investors. Showing significant growth, a flagship store was opened in Indirapuram, Ghaziabad and in just three months of operation, the brand launched an innovative store-within-a-store franchising model in Shahdara, Delhi and Meerut. This rapid expansion strengthens 18 Solitaire’s status as the fastest growing engagement ring brand in India.

With a background in mechanical engineering, an MBA from the London Academy of Excellence in Stratford and currently pursuing a PhD in Entrepreneurship Management, Ishank Sahadeva embodies the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. His professional journey, from honing his skills in South Africa to leading the family business, laid the foundation for 18 Solitaire. Recognizing the need to create a dedicated engagement ring brand in India, Ishank’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication has taken the brand to new heights.

Creating a new brand in the competitive Indian jewelry market presented significant challenges. Gaining consumer trust was paramount. 18 Solitaire introduced IDT certification, ensuring global standards of quality and authenticity, as well as HUID marking, further guaranteeing purity. The brand’s 90% buyback strategy, 3 years of free buffing and polishing services, and 21-day no questions asked replacement policy have combined to overcome initial skepticism and build a loyal customer base. These measures underscored the brand’s commitment to quality, trust and customer satisfaction.

An important milestone in the history of 18 Solitaire was recognition as “Startup of the Year” on February 3, 2024 on the Aaj Tak website. This recognition was a testament to the brand’s innovative approach and rapid progress. Pre-revenue financing and the rapid launch of a second and third store using a store-within-a-store kiosk model underlined the brand’s potential and ambition.

18 Solitaire’s success story is not just about jewelry; it is about vision, resilience and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Offering a blend of tradition and modernity, the brand has set new standards in the Indian jewelry market, making every moment an unforgettable memory for its customers.

As 18 Solitaire continues to expand and innovate, it remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that with vision and dedication, even the loftiest dreams can become a dazzling reality.