Surya Mathew, 26, Wins Talents du Luxe 2026, Revives Indian Jewelry Traditions

Surya Mathew, a 26-year-old master jeweler and winner of the 2026 Talents du luxe et de la création award, creates contemporary talismans using gold and rare stones. Born in Bordeaux and raised between France and southern India, he inherited techniques from two Indian masters: Nadesan, whom he met at age 10, and Dhanapalan, who chose him as heir to a lineage normally reserved for Brahmins. At 13, Dhanapalan accepted Mathew into his line after consulting the astrological calendar. Mathew left India for Paris at 17, training at the Haute École de Joaillerie and working in Place Vendôme houses. He now teaches at the Haute École de Joaillerie and trains young artisans. In India, he salvages antique molds used for Maharajah jewelry, restores them, and combines them with European contemporary approaches. His signature is yellow gold, symbolizing light and comfort. Stones like tourmalines, sapphires, and colored diamonds are sourced globally. He designs pieces after meeting the wearer, aiming to create a "compass" and protective talisman. He seeks to bridge India and France, revive Indian jewelers affected by industrialization, and attract youth to artisanal crafts.