Whether its gold or diamonds, jewellery is unquestionably a major part of Arab tradition. No Arab woman’s closet is complete without her very own treasure trove of precious metals, no matter how big or small.
Gold in particular carries major significance in the region, having been used as currency for centuries, and still used today as a form of saving. The tradition has undeniably stood the test of time, and the region remains home to one of the world’s largest gold markets.
But with recent years came evolution, and a new wave contemporary Arab jewellery designers are making their mark both locally and internationally. With some labels already co-signed by the likes of Bella Hadid and Kylie Jenner, a new generation of creators is now on the rise.
These brands are proudly celebrating their heritage using cultural symbolism, talismans and personal storytelling. Whether inspired by Arabic typography or a historic Carthaginian queen, their Arab identity is reflected in every single piece.
From Tunisia to Oman, we’ve rounded up our favourite Arab jewellery brands of the moment.
Didon Jewellery
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Founded by Tunisian designer Azza Skhiri, Didon combines minimalistic and sculptural designs with subtle and raw elegance. The fine jewellery brand is inspired by the beauty of The Mediterranean Sea and the legacy of the Queen of Carthage, Didon, otherwise known as Dido or Queen Elissa, who was the founder of the Phoenician empire of Carthage.
Dama
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The Saudi brand uses natural gemstones and 18 karat gold to create personalized multi-colored bracelets and necklaces. You can customise your own piece by choosing from a selection of letter pendants, talismans and stones. Dama has also collaborated with Saudi designer Nasiba Hafiz on a special necklace, adorned with an Amethyst stone.
Tamarzizt
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The Paris-based brand perfectly combines geometric shapes and Berber motifs to create romantic and modern pieces. The designer Oumaima Tamarzizt draws inspiration from her Tunisian origins, modern architecture, contemporary art and her travels to India.
Kenz
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The label, launched by Zaineb Hasoon this year is already making its mark in the region. Hasoon, who has been designing jewellery for private clients for years, takes inspiration from her surroundings. Her standout piece, an asymmetrical and versatile palm-tree shaped earring, pendant, and pin is inspired by the palm trees of her native city, Baghdad.
Alexandra Hakim
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The British-Lebanese designer repurposes everything from tomato stems from Beirut’s bustling markets to spent matchsticks found at home into contemporary and sustainable jewellery. The pieces are meticulously made by hand, completely unique and zero-waste.
HAK The Label
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Launched in 2018 by Hakima Al Said, the Omani jewellery label beautifully fuses cultural symbolism with contemporary design in a minimal and modern aesthetic.
L’Atelier Nawbar
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L’Atelier Nawbar was founded in 1891, in Beirut. Today, sisters Dima and Tania Nawbar are carrying on with the legacy, creating intricate and delicate designs that are worn as an expression of love, beauty, heritage, and spirit.
Bil Arabi
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Established in 2006 by Nadine Kanso, the Emirati brand is taking the region’s jewellery world by storm. Every piece is a celebration of Arabic calligraphy using phrases, lettering and symbols on 18 karat gold and vibrant semi-precious stones.
