For Emirati jewellery designer Adi Al Fardan, precious gemstones have been a lifelong fascination.
Growing up surrounded by his family’s heritage in pearls and precious stones, he developed an early appreciation for their rarity, beauty and craftsmanship. Today, these influences continue to shape his approach to fine jewellery, where each stone’s individuality matters as much as the design around it.
His latest collaboration with Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council brings another aspect of his heritage into focus. Inspired by Al Safeefah, the traditional Emirati craft of palm-frond weaving, the collection translates its intricate geometric patterns into fine jewellery featuring 18-karat gold and precious gemstones. References to the UAE National Anthem and the national flag’s colours add personal significance, bringing together traditional craftsmanship and contemporary luxury.
What attracted you to collaborating with Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council?
What drew me to this collaboration was the belief we share with Irthi in the value of Emirati heritage and the importance of keeping it present in our lives, rather than simply preserving it in our memories.
Al Safeefah holds a special place in our hearts because it is deeply connected to our history and environment. What interested me most was the opportunity to present a craft we know and value in a different way through fine jewellery, while remaining true to its identity and origins.
How did you translate the traditional weaving patterns into jewellery?
We started by understanding the craft itself, drawing on Irthi’s research and archives to study the geometric formations and repeated patterns that give Al Safeefah its distinctive character.
The challenge was to translate those details from woven palm fronds into diamonds and precious gemstones while preserving the spirit of the original craft. We reinterpreted the interwoven geometric patterns in contemporary designs, allowing the connection to Al Safeefah to remain visible.
Can you tell us about the symbolism behind the collection?
We took inspiration from the words “Hassantuka Bismillah Ya Watan” from the UAE National Anthem and incorporated them into a series of necklaces, with each necklace dedicated to one word from the phrase.
We also selected gemstones representing the UAE flag: black diamonds for strength, emeralds for goodness and blessings, white diamonds for purity and an enduring bond, and rubies for passion and love.
The collection consists of four jewellery sets, each featuring a necklace, bracelet, earrings and ring, crafted in 18-karat white, yellow and rose gold.
How did your interest in jewellery first develop?
My attraction to jewellery began at an early age, growing up surrounded by my family’s heritage in pearls and precious gemstones. This sparked my curiosity about the beauty and rarity of gemstones and the craftsmanship behind each piece.
Over time, that curiosity developed into a genuine passion. I realised jewellery was a field in which I could express my own vision and values.
How would you describe your design philosophy today?
I am drawn to pieces that have character and individuality, where every detail serves a purpose. Creating jewellery is not about following trends, but giving each piece the time and attention it deserves.
I believe integrity, honesty and passion are just as important as the materials themselves. Jewellery should tell a story, create an emotional connection and become something that can be treasured and passed down through generations.
How has your approach to design evolved throughout your career?
I have become increasingly interested in understanding the individual characteristics of gemstones and diamonds. Every stone has its own personality, and the designer’s role is to bring out its natural beauty.
I now see jewellery as a complete journey, beginning with finding the right gemstone and continuing through every stage of cutting, design and craftsmanship. Even the most beautiful design can only reach its full potential when executed to the highest standard.
What opportunities do you see for Emirati jewellery designers today?
The UAE has become an important global centre for jewellery and precious gemstones, with the infrastructure and business environment to reach international markets.
For Emirati designers, the opportunity lies in combining our cultural identity with the continued development of design and production skills. Building a name takes patience and perseverance, but above all, it requires honesty and the ability to earn people’s trust.
What are your ambitions for Adi Alfardan Jewellery?
My ambition is to continue creating exceptional jewellery that stands for quality, integrity and timeless craftsmanship, while strengthening our relationships with clients and collectors internationally.
Creatively, I want to explore new ideas and work with exceptional gemstones, creating pieces that reflect individuality and carry a story.
For me, success is not measured by how much we create, but by the value, emotion and lasting memories that each piece leaves behind.
