Photographed by Ben Hassett for Vogue Arabia, March 2017.
The halls of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre will sparkle from October 25 until 29 for the 26th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Jewellery and Watch Show 2018 (JWS). Held under the patronage of HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, the UAE Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, the highly anticipated annual showcase will offer a wide selection of mesmerizing sets, compelling timepieces, and precious stones for visitors to explore. This year’s event will host over 150 exhibitors representing a vast range of regional and international brands, and visitors will be able to shop jewelry for both everyday looks and evening affairs. Read on for the five brands to keep an eye on at the 2018 JWS.
Ralph Masri
The 2016 DDFC/Vogue Fashion Prize winner has quickly cemented his status as one to watch in the competitive world of contemporary fine jewelry. Despite having only launched his eponymous brand a little over five years ago, Ralph Masri‘s designs have found fans in major stars including HM Queen Rania, Nicki Minaj, The Duchess of Sussex, and Gigi Hadid, who have all been seen sporting his statement rings and earrings.
Martha Medeiros
This unique Brazilian label favored by Noor Fares, Beyoncé, and Oprah Winfrey is one of the few apparel brands invited to showcase at JWS. Founded by Martha Medeiros in 2009, it was selected for its eye-catching handcrafted lace. For this year’s edition of the event, the designer joined forces with jewelry label Goldesign to create an exclusive line using gold details, diamonds, and precious Brazilian stones. “The idea was to blend jewelry and clothes into one to tell a joint story,” reveals Medeiros.
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Co-founded by Maryam Hassani and Dr. Harshad Mehta in 2015, the Dubai-based jewelry brand is known for its custom-made pieces, which are all handmade in the UAE. The diamond boutique, whose name takes its inspiration from the coordinates of Dubai, is known for offering its clients customized, bespoke diamond jewelry.
Repossi
The Italian jewelry house founded in Turin, Italy, in 1920 is clearly setting its sights on the Middle East. Shortly after opening its first stand-alone boutique in the region, Repossi is set to showcase its dazzling designs in the UAE for the first time.
Yoko London
Yoko London is a luxury, British jewelry label established in 1973 and is renowned for its use of rare pearls. Each ring, necklace, bracelet, or earring boasts eye-catching, handpicked pearls (some of which take up to a year to locate), ensuring the most exquisite jewelry. Warning: These are not your grandmother’s pearls.
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