Few jewellery brands create pieces that go back in time and Nadine Jewellery is one of them.
Founded by Nadine Attar to delve into the concept of self-expression, the brand pays homage to Saudi Arabia and embodies elements that are close to the Kingdom.
“Each and every jewellery piece that one wears is personal,” she tells Emirates Woman. “It is selected based on certain thoughts and emotions, that’s why I believe it must have depth and tell a story.”
By taking inspiration from her late father, she observed everything he learned after working in the jewellery industry for over 40 years.
This celebrity-approved brand has been adorned on the red carpet and at prestigious events such as the Cannes Film Festival by fans such as Hend Sabri, Zendaya and more.
With Saudi Arabia’s National Day soon approaching, we spoke to Attar about how she brings us wearable works of art made with precious metals and gemstones of all kinds.
What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
The first 30 minutes of my day are usually spent processing my thoughts for the day. I am either planning for the day or rethinking some decisions. However, like most of us, I check my messages and start the day by working out before going to work.
What was the catalyst for launching Nadine Jewellery and how did you know it was the right time?
When I look back and reflect, I realised I launched rather late as Saudi Arabia was going through a recession at that period of time. Yet, it was the only time that I could launch. Every decision I’ve made and every person I’ve met was part of a bigger plan in paving the path for me. There was no catalyst throughout the journey. When I initially started out, I received an opportunity to announce the brand at Cannes Film Festival through Ola Al Fares and this pushed everything happening towards that.
Can you talk us through your latest collection and how you believe each piece of jewellery tells a story?
My latest collection, Abjad, is my favourite due to its versatility and depth. As a person who loves delving into history and enjoys writing this collection tells the story of alphabets and how the concept of writing was initially invented. It explains the concept of why humans felt the need to carve symbols on stones to express themselves. It supports the notion of self-expression and how it lies at the core of human nature. I focused on ancient cultures starting with the Thamudian letters which were used by the Nabateans who lived in northern Saudi Arabia where Al Ula is. Their symbols are considered the root of Arabic alphabets.
You believe jewellery should be a personal statement – how have you incorporated this as a gemologist?
Each and every jewellery piece that one wears is personal. It is selected based on certain thoughts and emotions, that’s why I believe it must have depth and tell a story. Gemology is my strength because it gives me the right knowledge to understand the materials I work with.
How do you balance the creative and commercial sides of the business and do you feel more drawn to one than the other?
It’s very difficult to balance both. I used to think of myself as more of a technical/commercial individual when I was initially working in the banking sector. At a younger age, I never looked at myself as a creative individual. It’s interesting how life turns things around and today I’m very much drawn to the creative side of my work. There’s no magic answer on how to balance different segments of a business, except to be organised and focused, in order to not lose track or be purely driven by an emotional connection to the brand.
In business, what is a philosophy that you live by and can you give an example of this?
My father has taught me to take calculated risks. He used to often say an Arabic phrase “chain ’idea baea, chain ’idea aishtaraa’, which means humility and not being rigid in business deals. Over the years, I’ve followed the principle of flexibility and likableity, rather than simply applying strict rules. Where do you source your stones? There is no particular source. I deal with multiple suppliers from around the world.
Do you have any mentors who have helped guide your career and what support did they give?
My main mentor was my father, may his soul rest in peace.
What advice would you impart to other entrepreneurs?
Commitment, patience, and persistence in hard work. Without these three ingredients, no dreams can be made come true.
This is The Entrepreneur Issue – what does this mean to you?
I am simply honoured and grateful to be included in this issue.
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