Introducing Karmalulu: The Dubai-Based Jewellery Brand That Taps Into The Romance of Regional Mythology
The brainchild of Dubai-based Iraqi designer, Kareema Al-Adhami, the brand is a sustainably minded, small-batch jewellery line, underpinned by the creator’s love of art, culture and her own rich heritage
In a market arguably over-saturated with boutique jewellery brands, it takes something special to stand out, ringing loud and clear over the cacophony of voices on Instagram and beyond. Aesthetics to one side, this includes a strong grasp of one’s story, mission and philosophy. Why does it exist – and importantly, why now? Enter Karmalulu, not only jauntily titled, but also testament to how impactful it can be to lean into the local – be that heritage, style, production and even mythology. In this case, all four.
Crafted from recycled gold, diamonds and both precious and semi-precious stones, it is designed with talismanic appeal. The Mesopotamian collection is woven with a story of original female empowerment, helmed in no small part by its poster girl: Ishtar, a venerated female figure in Iraqi mythology – the goddess of love, war, justice and political power. Not one to mess with, then.
Described as a “powerful and poetic tribute to the divine feminine energy and an ode to women whose legacies are often forgotten or untold,” the collection has succeeded in the most attractive of all elements – connecting with the wearer.
Image creative direction: Dina Adlouni. Photography: Karen Madi
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s September 2021 issue
