“I started designing jewellery, which has
been a passion of mine for years. I picked
out rare pieces that drew my attention
and it was an occupation of mine to figure
out how to bring out their most unique
qualities, to bring them to life.”
What began as a deeply personal creative
practice after the pandemic grew into a body
of work. At its heart was a journey through
loss, recovery, vulnerability, bravery and
renewal.
For Nina, jewellery became a way of
fulfilling a vision once shared with her
late husband — a vision of her as his galaxy.
Nina Nova carries that idea forward:
a universe of rare elements, individuality
and emotion, brought together
through design.
“An end is just
a new beginning.”
— Nina R. Pillai
Nina’s life has been shaped by extraordinary connections across the world. She was privileged
to be friends with King Charles, the late Nelson Mandela, Lord Carrington (the King’s uncle)
and many other distinguished global figures.
She shared close friendships with the late Valentino and the late Gianni Versace, eminent
designers whose influence defined an era.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Mrs. Pillai was among the foremost buyers of jewellery, antiquities
and Indian art at the world’s leading auction houses, Christie’s and Sotheby’s. Both houses
invited her to become their Indian Chairman, a role she graciously declined as she was
deeply involved as a Director across all six countries where Britannia Biscuits was present.