Drawing from a vibrant childhood, Sarah Abudawood’s jewelry brand shines on.
Sarah Abudawood
Sarah Abudawood launched her fine jewelry label Yataghan in 2008 out of “deep passion and unstoppable creativity.” Named after the Yataghan sword – a piece of weaponry used during the Ottoman Empire – cultural references and history have been a source of inspiration for the designer. Born in Saudi Arabia and now based in Dubai, Abudawood also pulled from her childhood memories. “My late mother was a jewelry fanatic. One of my first memories of her is catching her wave at me from the corner of my eye, wearing a now vintage ruby and diamond bracelet,” she says. “I believe the inception of Yataghan took place in a way to keep her memory alive.” The brand strives to “give women the confidence to express themselves in the most authentic way possible.” As Abudawood looks forward on her career path, she believes “in design it is important to follow your thoughts and see where they lead you. And in many of Yataghan’s pieces, the Arabic script has become an integral part of the brand. The sayings that I chose to include were those repeatedly whispered to me by my father and beloved grandmother. It is in those sweet, simple lines that I find my drive.” Here, Abudawood gives us an insight into her artistically driven world.
“The Yataghan sword was known to embody a unique shape and carry a distinguishable sense of elegance that only a skilled craftsman could masterfully create. It was artistically engraved with Arabic poetry and encrusted with gems and precious stones. It became an emblem for the brand’s cultural identity”
“I was born in Jeddah, and exploring those memories of growing up influences my work. My mother’s love for jewelry was passed on to me. I feel it was written in my kismet that I would eventually become a designer.”
The inspiration for the Roshan collection is Abudawood’s love for architecture and the intricate wooden carvings of the historical balconies in the old city of Jeddah, known as Al-Balad.
“I tend to gravitate towards bold lines and geometric shapes. There is a comfort that lies in sleekness and minimalism. Space is intrinsic to my process. I naturally mirror the contours and essence of my surroundings in the silhouettes of my jewelry design.”
From Jennifer Lopez to Lady Gaga and Kate Beckinsale (above), various celebrities have been seen wearing Yataghan.
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