“Chep” Forever: A Love Story Carved in Diamonds

How Personal Inscriptions and GIA-Certified Diamonds Make Love Stories Eternal

Mon Jun 9, 2025

When two souls find each other and fall in love, it’s the little things, the jokes, the quirks, the shared words that become the most precious. For one modern couple, the word “Chep” started as a playful insult, teasing each other for being obsessed, but it eventually turned into a love language of their own. So when it came time to seal their bond with diamonds, they didn’t just choose exceptional stones they decided to inscribe their inside joke into them forever.

This enchanting tale of love and legacy has been brought to life by Mr. Gopalarathnam Vummidi, a 5th-generation jeweller from one of India's most respected jewelry houses. Known for his unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity, Mr. Vummidi adds a rare personal dimension to every stone, blending tradition with modern-day romance.


Portrait of Mr. Vummidi observing a diamond through a gem loupe.

The Romance Behind the Rock:

The couple, Varang and Shruti, chose two GIA-certified diamonds, each over 1 carat, a symbol of their equal partnership and shared love. But it wasn't just the size or quality that made them special, it was their intention. Shruti wanted to inscribe “Chep” onto the diamonds, turning a private joke into a legacy that could one day make their future children laugh and marvel: “Oh my god, how obsessed were our parents with each other”. The process of engraving a diamond might sound daunting, but thanks to technological advancements and expert care, it’s not only possible but also entirely safe. “This process takes between a couple of hours to a couple of days depending on the size of the stone. It doesn’t reduce the color or clarity of the diamond, as it’s only a surface modification. There is no loss in weight”, explains Mr. Vummidi.

Close up image of Shruti's engagement ring's diamond.
Close-up image of Varang's engagement ring's diamond.

A Billion-Year-Old Canvas for Modern Love:

Diamonds are formed over billions of years, yet they continue to carry fresh stories of today. For Mr. Vummidi, every ring is not just a purchase, “It’s a daily reminder of the love a partner has for the other.” As a GIA graduate Gemologist, graduate pearls expert, and applied jewellery professional, he works closely with couples to select the right diamond. Whether the buyer prioritizes size, brilliance, or flawlessness, he believes each personality deserves the right shape and story. “Each relationship is different, and they deserve stones that reflect their uniqueness. Adding custom inscriptions is our way of making those love stories part of something that’s truly eternal,” he says.

Portrait of Mr. Varang Bombaywala and Ms. Shruti Modi sharing a heartfelt moment.

Why GIA Certification Matters:

When it comes to solitaires, GIA (Gemological Institute of America) certification is considered the gold standard. Each GIA report includes precise grading on the diamond’s cut, clarity, color, and carat weight, providing complete transparency and unmatched credibility. Mr. Vummidi insists on working with only GIA-graded diamonds, “Their strict grading procedure leaves no room for ambiguity. It’s the only way I can promise quality to my clients and help other retailers provide honest stones to their customers.”

A Ring, A Joke, A Legacy:

This story of love, told through the unusual word “Chep,” reminds us that jewelry is more than just precious metal and stone. It’s a vessel for memory, intimacy, and legacy. In a world full of fleeting moments, some bonds deserve to be carved into a diamond forever. So next time you choose a solitaire, take it a step further. Make it truly yours—inscribe a joke, a word, a promise. Let a billion-year-old miracle carry your story. And when you do, trust Mr. Vummidi to craft a piece that’s as personal as your love.

Begin your own love story with the trusted hands of this expert jeweller here: 

Portrait of Mr. Varang Bombaywala and Ms. Shruti Modi sharing a heartfelt moment.

Credits:
This story and the accompanying images have been shared with the kind permission of Mr. Varang Bombaywala and Ms. Shruti Modi, and Mr. Gopalarathnam Vummidi, GIA Graduate Gemologist and fifth-generation jeweller. All photographs and personal details are published with co
nsent.

Jinal Prajapati
Jewellery Designer | Blogger