Jessica Kahawaty On Crafting The Heirlooms Of Tomorrow

Model, businesswoman and philanthropist Jessica Kahawaty embarks on an illuminating new journey with the launch of Kahawaty Jewels with her father

Can you tell us a bit about your new venture?

Kahawaty Jewels is a deeply personal expression of heritage, emotion and artistry. Each piece has a story that evokes a feeling, memory or legacy. What truly sets us apart is that we tailor a custom experience for every client and every price point – whether it’s an existing precious piece or a custom creation. My father, Ghassan, is a Master Jeweller who sits down with every customer and gives them the attention, education and care to help them select their special piece.

Where are the pieces designed and made?

Each piece is meticulously sketched and conceptualised between Dubai, Hong Kong and Australia – cities that hold a special place in my heart. My father has worked with our ateliers in Australia and Hong Kong for over 35 years. Our artisans bring the vision to life using techniques passed down through generations. The craftsmanship is exceptional, and that’s non-negotiable for me.

What stones and materials do you use?

When it comes to engagement and wedding rings, we believe every detail should speak of
permanence, provenance and personal meaning. We exclusively work with natural
diamonds which hold value, timelessness and inheritance. We are proud partners of GIA,
the number 1 diamond certification in the world and ensue all stones are ethically
sourced. Every stone is hand-selected by my father for its brilliance and uniqueness.
We work with 18k gold and platinum – classic and enduring. In terms of design, we work with everything from classic cuts like ovals, emeralds, round brilliants, asscher cuts and more, to more unique silhouettes that feel one-of-one – all tailored to the bride, the couple, their story, their forever.

How important is jewellery when it comes to a bride’s wedding day?

Wedding day jewellery is every girl’s dream. I love creating wedding sets for our clients. It’s more than something beautiful – it carries energy, emotion and meaning. It’s a quiet witness to that special moment and it becomes part of your story for generations to come.

What is the process for designing an engagement ring?

It starts with understanding the couple’s story and connection – the little moments that define them. Sometimes a bride knows what she wants, other times her partner wants to surprise her. Then it becomes a beautiful collaboration between my father, the couple and our designer. My father truly has an incredible talent and eye for design. At the same
time, he listens and observes, and somehow just knows exactly what our bride wants.

What are your top tips for choosing the perfect engagement ring?

First, know your lifestyle, as your ring should be a balance of practicality and beauty. Second, don’t chase trends, choose something that resonates with your soul. Almost always, our heart knows what it wants! Third, pay attention to the stone’s quality and setting. Your jeweller should take you through the GIA certification for the diamond and explain all aspects beyond the 4Cs. Th e small details make the difference. And lastly, think long-term. You’ll be wearing it forever so timeless and elegant always wins.

What inspires you in your designs?

Inspiration finds us everywhere: my Middle Eastern roots, the light and ease of the Australian sea where I grew up and even the poetry of European design, but it’s all sharpened by my father Ghassan’s discerning eye and the talented atelier team working beside us. Together we balance strength with softness, past with present, transforming emotions from that special moment, into jewellery you’ll treasure forever.

Do you have a favourite piece from the Engagement collection?

There’s a round brilliant-cut diamond ring that I love. It features a beautiful two-carat centre stone with a halo of small diamonds throughout the band that add extra sparkle. The delicate detailing on the band gives it a refined and elegant touch. It looks different from every angle, but its light and love stays the same from every angle.

What trends are you seeing in wedding jewellery now?

There’s a return to romanticism, uniqueness with timelessness, cushion and oval cuts, and hand-engraved bands. One of the most beautiful trends right now is bespoke jewellery: people want jewellery that truly tell their story, not just a pretty piece. At our boutique in Jumeirah, we offer a unique, personalised experience where clients can collaborate closely with my father to create something completely their own.

Are you a romantic, a hopeless romantic or something else?

I love to love. Does that make me hopeless? A romantic for sure! I love pieces that look romantic and exude love and beauty. Whenever I put diamonds on, I feel like I transform completely – I could almost be transported into a romantic novel!

What’s your favourite jewellery memory from when you were
growing up?

I remember watching my mother Rita get ready; how she’d carefully open up her jewellery box on the bed. I would jump on to see the wonders inside. She’d select her jewellery, each piece with its own story. Th ere was this beautiful ritual in it. She certainly did not like dainty pieces – every piece was a masterpiece. She loves big rings, big earrings, bangles and intricate necklaces. It’s her personality and my favourite memory.

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From Harper’s Bazaar Bride Autumn/Winter 2025 Issue