Art and the Middle East are two entities intertwined, with the region’s identity as a cradle of artistry and expression within world history. Remarkably unique and diverse, Middle Eastern art draws on a melange of cultures and influences from its nations.
For Palestine, art marks a tool of resistance, a token of their unfaltering faith for freedom. Amidst the current genocide that has persisted for almost two months, killing tens of thousands of people, creative expression is a booming voice amidst silence. Within the realm of luxury, jewellery brands from the Holy Land have seamlessly imbued their heritage and identity into their creations.
To show our solidarity is a moral duty – Palestinian-seeded brands have designed an array of products to ensure their culture and identity are recognised, celebrated and preserved. From fashioning subtle minimalist pieces to striking statement ones, here is a curated collection of such jewellery brands.
Hiba Jaber
Palestine-born Hiba Jaber launched her namesake contemporary fine jewellery label in 2017. Her customised pieces designed for the independent woman echo her sentiment that one’s story reflects in the jewellery they adorn themselves with. The jewellery is created with 18k gold and finished with precious stones. Hiba’s designs express her own journey of exploring her culture and identity; wearing them is akin to witnessing the development of her journey. But she still promises you the opportunity to let your individuality shine – an intricate blend of striking shapes with gentle touches, Hiba Jaber’s collection is easy to adore.
The Coral Beach Jewelry
Founded in the heart of the Old City, The Coral Beach offers ornaments of all sorts. Their unique jewellery are coveted by those who seek pieces with meaning – the brand incorporates Palestinian symbols into every one of their collections. One such piece is their bestselling necklace: a Palestine map-shaped pendant which encases a line from the famous Palestinian poem ‘On This Land’. Written by Mahmoud Darwish, the Arabic line reads ‘On this land what deserves life’. This piece is powerful, conveying the Palestinians’ unwavering determination to preserve their land. The Coral Beach Jewelry retains this thought in all their pieces, emphasising the depth of this emotion. If you are one for accessories of substance, you have found your brand.
Dima Jewellery
Dima Rashid’s story is woven into her fine jewellery empire, home to powerful and iconic designs. Established in 2003, Dima Jewellery’s creations range from precious rare gems to hand-hammered gold pieces. All the pieces share one constant: their strong roots in Palestinian heritage. One of the brand’s most poignant pieces is the ‘Right of Return Key’, a necklace made of 18kt gold and diamonds and your heart-shaped stone of choice – ruby or emerald. This piece embodies the Palestinian yearning for their land, carrying their hopes to return one day. Dima Jewellery strikes a perfect balance – it encapsulates important stories within vibrant and memorable jewellery pieces.
R.Y.M. Jewelry
The brainchild of Palestinian-Lebanese designer, Reem Y.M., this fine contemporary jewellery brand redefines the boundaries of jewels through simple yet distinct designs. Her unique architectural accessories are intricately engineered and pleasing to the eye. To further enhance the jewellery experience, R.Y.M. Jewelry extends the offer to customers to personalise their pieces. From symbols which represent personality traits to special people, you are sure to leave with an item close to heart.
NURNEI
An exquisite combination of precious elements, patterns and hues, NURNEI is an independent and ethically produced Palestinian jewellery brand. Helmed by British-Palestinian designer, Noor, the brand employs the ancient technique of lost wax casting to fabricate its pieces. The results of this fascinating technique are collections of stunning thick pieces that are both bold and sombre. The brand’s variety comprises of its debut coin necklaces to its mother of pearl map pendants lovingly handmade in the Holy land. A perfect representation of slow jewellery infused with rich culture, NURNEI is a must-have for all who appreciate quality jewellery.
Feature image by hibajaber_official.