The Middle East has long captivated the imaginations of artists, designers, and jewelry artisans, offering an extraordinary mixture of culture, history, and luxury. This region showcases intricate Islamic architectural patterns, vibrant desert hues, and breathtaking Islamic artwork, all of which have profoundly influenced some of the world’s most beautiful high jewelry collections.
Characterized by a unique style, the Middle Eastern culture boasts appreciation for colorful gemstones and luxurious designs. Famous jewelry houses have adopted these timeless themes, crafting exquisite pieces that pay homage to the grandeur of ancient civilizations while celebrating a shared reverence for cultural heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. Let’s see how iconic jewelry brands such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Boucheron draw inspiration from the Middle East, creating collections that seamlessly combine tradition with modern design while honoring one of the globe’s most culturally rich regions.
Bvlgari: “Jannah” Collection
Launched in February 2020, Bvlgari’s “Jannah” collection was developed in partnership with Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a member of the ruling Royal Family of the United Arab Emirates. The name “Jannah,” meaning paradise, is centered around a five-petal flower motif that draws inspiration from the floral designs on the ceiling of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, symbolizing the historical connection between Abu Dhabi and Rome. This collection not only represents the rich histories of both cities but also highlights the enduring connection between two prominent families, bound together by a mutual respect for cultural heritage.
Chanel: Secrets D’Orients
Chanel’s Secrets D’Orients high jewelry collection, introduced in 2019, serves as an exclusive capsule collection tailored for the Middle East. Among the many signatures of Mademoiselle Chanel, her love for pearls is particularly noteworthy; she was often seen adorned with pearls, incorporating them into nearly any outfit. This collection reflects both Chanel’s and the Middle East’s profound appreciation for pearls. The pearl harvesting tradition in this region is among the oldest and most established globally, substantially contributing to the region’s economy before the rise of oil and tourism. Each exquisitely crafted piece in the collection features Akoya pearls and imperial topaz, carefully selected to emulate the earthy tones of the environment while mimicking the geometric designs characteristic of the Mashrabiya pattern, an architectural feature synonymous with Arabian residences.
Piaget: Possession Decor Palace, Piaget x Razan Alazzouni
Earlier this year, the prestigious Swiss brand Piaget collaborated with Saudi fashion designer Razan Alazzouni to unveil a fresh iteration of the Possession Decor Palace collection. This collection has been a hallmark of Piaget since the 1960s, representing a signature style characterized by opulence and timelessness. Razan Alazzouni reimagined the Piaget Possession Decor Palace collection by crafting two stunningly embroidered artworks that showcase Piaget’s distinctive gold crafting technique, Decor Palace. This specialized technique, inspired by traditional Guilloché methods used in watchmaking, effortlessly captures and reflects light, allowing the gold to radiate brilliantly, even in low lighting. This aesthetic mirrors the vibrant culture of the Middle East, reinforcing the unity of artistry and regional influence.
Van Cleef & Arpels :”Le Secret”
Since its inception, the theme of mystery and secrets has been elegantly woven into the history of Van Cleef & Arpels, and the “Le Secret” collection is a beautiful manifestation of this legacy. This collection invites wearers into a whimsical “secret garden of jewels,” where flowers, birds, and butterflies come to life. The vibrant motifs crafted from exquisite gemstones are subtly hidden throughout the collection, encouraging exploration and discovery. The design reflects a variety of cultural influences, integrating intricate elements inspired by Middle Eastern geometric and architectural designs. Van Cleef & Arpels skillfully employs arabesque patterns, echoing the repeating geometric forms prevalent in Islamic art and architecture. The use of luxurious emeralds, diamonds, and intricate filigree pays tribute to the region’s rich heritage of luxury and workmanship. Additionally, each enchanting piece is equipped with ingenious mechanisms that animate these captivating creatures, adding an element of wonder to the collection.
Cartier: “Arabesque” Collection
The distinguished French maison, Cartier, has long expressed a profound appreciation for Middle Eastern motifs, intricately interwoven into the brand’s identity through its founder, Louis Cartier. His fascination with arabesque designs and the elaborate calligraphic and floral patterns of Islamic art greatly influenced Cartier’s creative journey. By merging the ethereal beauty of traditional Middle Eastern aesthetics with the geometric sensibilities of Modernism, he established key design principles that continue to resonate within the house’s creations today. The “Arabesque” collection is a prime example of this philosophy, showcasing intricate details that reflect significant Middle Eastern influences, enriched with elements of Islamic artistry. Cartier also frequently incorporates symbolic motifs such as the crescent moon and palm trees, representing both the natural beauty and spiritual essence of the region.
Boucheron: “Hôtel de la Lumière”
First introduced in 2015, this collection celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship showcased at Boucheron’s iconic boutique located at 26 Place Vendôme. Drawing inspiration from Boucheron’s rich archives, the collection epitomizes modern elegance while honoring the artisans’ contributions to the boutique’s illustrious heritage. Boucheron proudly showcases the influence of the Middle East within this collection, capturing the radiance and warmth inherent in the region’s stunning landscapes. Their use of warm-toned gemstones, such as citrine and rubies, coupled with intricate latticework, pays homage to the architectural masterpieces that define the region, like the arches that grace magnificent mosques and grand palaces.
Chaumet: “Les Mondes de Chaumet”
Throughout its illustrious history, the renowned jewelry house Chaumet has drawn inspiration from a myriad of regions globally. The “Les Mondes de Chaumet” collection exemplifies this diversity, featuring an array of exquisite pieces influenced by various cultures, including that of the Middle East. The collection is adorned with high jewelry pieces that evoke the architectural beauty of Arabian landscapes, the mystique of desert environments, and the rich traditions woven into Middle Eastern heritage. Bold and vibrant materials such as gold, diamonds, and lapis lazuli echo the alluring beauty that characterizes the region, resulting in designs that are both striking and meaningful.
Chopard: “Red Carpet” Collection
Chopard proudly serves as the official jewelry partner of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, contributing to the star-studded glamour surrounding this iconic event. The “Red Carpet” collection is renowned for its extravagance, elegantly intertwining themes from fairy tales, embellished with tiaras, vivid necklaces, and enchanting floral motifs. Though it is not immediately apparent, Chopard often integrates Middle Eastern influences into its “Red Carpet” high jewelry collections. The bold use of gemstones like emeralds, sapphires, and rubies reflects the lavish and colorful aesthetics of Middle Eastern royalty. Moreover, the designs subtly emulate the intricate patterns found in the region’s renowned tapestries, carpets, and ornate decor, showcasing geometric shapes and lattice patterns that resonate with the splendor of the culture.
Messika: “Arabian Nights” Collection
Messika has cultivated a longstanding relationship with the Middle East, establishing a flagship boutique in the Dubai Mall back in 2006. Drawing inspiration from the enchanting tales of “One Thousand and One Nights,” Messika included a Middle Eastern-inspired chapter titled “Arabian Nights” within their “Once Upon A Time” high jewelry collection. This collection spotlights six exquisite pieces influenced by oriental aesthetics, most notably inspired by the intelligence of the iconic character “Shahrazad” and the mesmerizing beauty of a starry Arabian night sky. The central theme of light weaves through the collection, with each piece liberally adorned with diamonds to mirror the “radiant skin of its heroines” from the stories. Every creation subtly channels the essence of “Scheherazade,” embodying both playfulness and allure, as expressed by Messika.
