The Fruit Of Life: A Closer Look at Al Zain’s Al Merriyah High Jewellery Collection
Al Zain celebrates an iconic jewellery motif with its new haute joaillerie Al Merriyah collection
A powerful and ancient symbol that has been represented in Islamic art for centuries, the intricacy of the date fruit’s branches and flowers have been etched onto some of the world’s most striking artistic oeuvre. Now, with the Al Merriyah high jewellery collection, they can also adorn the arms and décolletages of independent women worldwide — the motif set aglow in diamonds, emeralds and natural pearls.
With an eye on the future, historic Bahraini jeweller Al Zain continues to weave the aesthetic mysticism of the date through its latest collection, taking its Al Merriyah line to the highest level of artistic craftsmanship. The collection calls to mind both the modern architectural marvels of the Arabian peninsula, as well as the elaborate artistic accents of the region’s historic shrines.
Envisaged for women looking for jewellery that is also a conversation starters, each design conjures the gentle hues and textures of the majestic date fruit. One reimaged in lush yellow and inviting rose gold, luxe gems and spellbinding details that draw the eyes to subtle nuances of each piece in the collection.
“These women appreciate their Arabian heritage but are influenced by the western world. They celebrate their youth and independence and are exploring new ideas and pushing limits. They are current, bold, stylish and have a luxurious taste in fashion,” the Al Zain company noted.
One of the region’s leading jewellery maisons, Al Zain traces its roots back to the days of the Arabian pearl trade in 1930. With over 170 craftsmen and 13 boutiques throughout the Middle Eastern region, Al Zain is now poised to captivate and expand its presence globally.
The name of a traditional Arabian jewellery element inspired by dates, Al Merriyah is customarily made in 21 karat gold. Known for its flair for evolving traditions in a contemporary context, Al Zain’s first Al Merriyah line quickly became a best-selling collection and has since become a brand icon.
But the new high jewellery take on the brand’s staple collection elevates the concept to a new level.
“It’s a magnificent testament to Al Zain’s technical expertise, the collection is finessed by brilliant diamonds, precious rubies, turquoise and black ceramic diligently set on 18k yellow gold. Oozing with a marvellous sense of abundance, Al Merriyah is a true testament to beauty in all aspects of life,” the company pronounced.
This new line remains an ode to the fruit’s fertility and tenacity, yet culminates in regal pieces, like the Al Merriyah necklace in 18k yellow gold that comes set with diamonds, emeralds, Bahraini pearls, and black ceramic, as well as pendants sculpted in the form of bejewelled dates, embodying the mystical allure of the Arabian desert and the timelessness of this historic motif.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s December 2021 issue