MORE than 12,000 people have flocked to Jewellery Arabia 2013 within the first 48 hours of it opening.

Bahrainis and residents from all over the world have attended the exhibition to view and buy luxury jewellery from 30 countries.

Some of the world’s most renowned jewellery and watch makers were showcasing their products at the event, which is being held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, and runs until Saturday.

Many were fresh from their success at the 9th Middle East Watches, Jewellery and Pen Awards held at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel and Spa on Tuesday evening, which recognises exceptional designers from around the world.

Bahraini jewellers, Al Zain, won the best eastern design award for a rose cut diamond handcuff from their Maharajah collection, which it also sold for an undisclosed amount on the same day.

“It was actually my mother, Samar Al Gosaibi, who designed the piece and it was bought on the first day of the exhibition,” said Al Zain creative director Noora Al Zain.

“It was a woman who bought it and it was a gift to herself as I understand, so I know it will be worn.

“It was a wonderful feeling to win the award and this is a very important event for us.

“Our whole year revolves around Jewellery Arabia as it is such a major event, it is also when we launch our new collections.”

Al Zain is now working with Bahraini tattoo designer Karima Sharabi on a new collection inspired by Arabic calligraphy.

Fellow Bahraini jewellers, Asia Jewellery, have collaborated with watch company Escada and launched a special white ceramic diamond ladies watch, available only in Bahrain. There are currently only two available to buy and both were on display at the exhibition, selling for BD450.

As well as stunning necklaces, rings, bracelets and watches, the exhibition features a number of perfume brands, including Fragrance Du Bois which is exhibiting its range in conjunction with the Bahraini luxury brand Mohammed Al Fardan Group.

The perfume, which includes eight different fragrances, is made from Oud oil found in trees that grow in South East Asia.

The oil is believed to have been used for perfume since ancient times and even to help with mummification in ancient Egypt.

Du Bois plans to open a boutique in Bahrain next year and to establish a Bahrain-based company offering investments in its Thailand plantations.

While Bahraini designers have so far stolen the limelight, up and coming talent from other parts of the world are also being showcased for the first time at the exhibition

Source: GDN

In: News Asked By: AskBahrain [192 ]