“From the initial sketch to the final product, seeing the craftsmanship and attention to detail come to life is truly fulfilling”
Believing in the saying, ‘Let your eyes only see beauty’, the Syrian architect Lana Al Kamal established her eponymous jewelry label in 2017. Saudi born and now living in Dubai, Lana’s abiding passion for art, culture and architecture inspired her to launch with three unique, meticulously detailed capsule collections combining simple silhouettes with innovative designs, immaculate craftsmanship and a touch of femininity and flair. Each of Lana’s creations are conceived in a hand sketch and brought to life in 18k gold masterpieces at one of regions finest gold factories.
CityPages Magazine: When did you first realise you wanted to pursue a career as a jewelry designer?
Lana Al Kamal: I discovered my passion for jewelry design during my time as an architect. The intricate details and artistic expression in jewelry always fascinated me. It was a natural progression for me to combine my architectural background with my love for creating beautiful, timeless pieces. Around five years ago, I took the leap and founded Lana Al Kamal Jewelry, embarking on this incredible journey as a jewelry designer.
CPM: What’s your jewelry philosophy?
LAK: My jewelry philosophy revolves around the idea of creating beauty that captures the essence of femininity and elegance. Each piece in my collection is meticulously hand-sketched and crafted with exceptional attention to detail. I believe in using only the finest materials, such as 18K gold, to ensure the highest quality and longevity of my designs. My goal is to create unique, three-dimensional pieces that embody grace, sophistication, and a touch of modernity.
CPM: Who have been your biggest mentors in this industry and what is the best advice they have ever given you?
LAK: Throughout my journey as a jewelry designer, I have been fortunate to cross paths with numerous inspiring mentors. These valuable encounters took place during my studies at 55FIFTY7, L’ecole Van Cleef & Arpels and GIA classes and courses, as well as through interactions with esteemed jewelry designers. Among the many valuable pieces of advice I received, one stands out prominently. emphasized the significance of remaining true to my own artistic vision. They encouraged me to infuse each design with my personal touch and to maintain unwavering commitment to quality. This invaluable guidance has greatly influenced my approach and has enabled me to establish a distinctive brand that embodies my unique style and craftsmanship.
CPM: Can you tell us a little bit about the latest collection, ZAHRA?
LAK: The latest collection, ZAHRA, is a versatile and timeless line of jewelry pieces designed to be worn for any occasion. Inspired by the beauty of the orchid flower, each piece in the collection captures the grace and charm of this delicate blossom. From the elegant Zahra earrings to the modern Zahra ring, every design reflects a harmonious blend of femininity and modernity. The collection features exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring that each piece is a true work of art.
CPM: What type of woman did you have in mind when designing the line?
LAK: When designing the ZAHRA collection, I envisioned a woman who embodies femininity, exudes confidence, and appreciates the elegance of timeless jewelry. The pieces are created to complement a woman’s individuality, whether she is attending a formal event or simply adding a touch of sophistication to her everyday ensemble. The collection aims to empower women to embrace their beauty and express their unique style through the elegance of fine jewelry.
CPM: What’s your process like, and how long does it take to conceptualize a new earring or bracelet?
LAK: My design process begins with inspiration, which can come from various sources such as nature, architecture, or even emotions. I start by sketching my ideas on paper, capturing the essence of the design. From there, I create 3D models and renderings using design software to visualize the piece in detail. The duration of the conceptualization phase can vary depending on the complexity of the design, but it typically takes several weeks to ensure that every element is perfected. Additionally, to the journey to source the perfect gemstones for the piece before proceeding to the production.
CPM: Which stones and materials do you prefer working with?
LAK: I take great pleasure in working with a wide range of exquisite gemstones and materials. While I appreciate the beauty and versatility of various stones, my personal favorites include diamonds beside their exceptional durability they have a timeless allure that adds a touch of luxury to my designs, and my birthstone Sapphires due to its wide array of natural colors, this stone stands out as a testament to the beauty found in nature. I also have a deep appreciation for the warmth and elegance of pearls, which I often incorporate into my designs. In terms of materials, I prefer working with 18K (yellow, rose and white) gold due to its durability, luxurious appearance, and ability to bring out the true beauty of gemstones. I carefully select materials that complement each design and ensure that they meet the highest standards of quality.
CPM: What do you enjoy most about your work?
LAK: One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the transformation of an idea into a tangible piece of art. From the initial sketch to the final product, seeing the craftsmanship and attention to detail come to life is truly fulfilling. I also find joy in knowing that my jewelry brings happiness and adds a touch of elegance to the lives of those who wear it. The ability to create something that holds sentimental value and becomes a part of someone’s personal story is a constant source of inspiration for me.
CPM: What do you want women to feel when wearing your jewelry?
LAK: When a woman wears my jewelry, I want her to feel a sense of confidence, beauty, and empowerment. I believe that jewelry has the power to enhance one’s natural radiance and serve as a reflection of their inner strength. I want women to feel proud to wear my designs, knowing that they are adorned with exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. Ultimately, I hope that my jewelry serves as a reminder of the wearer’s individuality and helps them express their unique style.
CPM: Who would you most like see wearing your jewelry?
LAK: I take immense joy in seeing women from all walks of life embrace and enjoy my jewelry. Every woman who appreciates elegance, sophistication, and timeless beauty is someone I would be honored to see wearing my designs. Whether it’s a prominent figure in the fashion industry, a successful businesswoman, or a passionate art enthusiast, I am inspired by the diverse range of women who choose to adorn themselves with Lana Al Kamal Jewelry. Ultimately, I strive to create pieces that resonate with women who value quality craftsmanship and the power of self-expression through jewelry.
CPM: Do you have a most treasured item in your personal jewelry collection?
LAK: As a jewelry designer, every piece I craft holds a special place in my heart. But if I were to select one cherished item from my personal collection, it would undoubtedly be the diamond tennis bracelet gifted to me by my parents on my wedding day. Additionally, a Heart Cut Diamond that my husband presented to me when our daughter Lily was born, which I delicately set in a ring of my own design. this piece hold profound sentimental value, symbolizing the precious moments and shared memories of my journey with my husband.
CPM: What’s next? What’s your vision for the future of your brand?
LAK: Looking ahead, my vision for Lana Al Kamal Jewelry is to continue creating timeless and exquisite designs that captivate the hearts of women worldwide. I aim to expand the reach of my brand, establishing a stronger presence in international markets and collaborating with esteemed luxury retailers. Additionally, I aspire to explore new avenues of creativity, pushing the boundaries of jewelry design while staying true to my brand’s philosophy of elegance, sophistication, and exceptional craftsmanship. Ultimately, I hope that Lana Al Kamal Jewelry becomes synonymous with luxury, quality, and the celebration of feminine beauty for generations to come.
Instagram: @lanaalkamaljewelry
