RIYADH: Different kinds of beads have always been an important part of traditional women’s jewelry all across the world. A wide range of materials has been used to make beads for necklaces, bracelets and other jewelry items.
There was a time when different cultures had different styles of jewelry that served as their identity. However, with the emergence of a global culture, style and fashion are no longer confined to geographical boundaries.
The Saudi fashion scene is also very vibrant and dynamic. Talented Saudi men and women are joining the style and fashion industry in large numbers and many have proven their mettle.
One of those talented Saudis is Nedaa Assal who launched handcrafted accessories and jewelry line — Dream in Rose — in 2017. She tries to combine tradition and modernity in designs that are suitable for modern women.
Assal took the name after hearing the phrase in a French movie and thinking it had “a beautiful ring to it.”
She originally started making jewelry as a hobby, but quickly found that there was a demand for her unique and intricate designs, which she created using precious gemstones and her own thermal clay work beads blended with gold. Assal also works with customers to design bespoke pieces.
“Mostly my clientele is young, and I always try to (understand) what they need and want,” Assal said.
For example, some of her most popular pieces are her mobile necklaces crafted from seashells and olive-tree beads. She stresses all her creations are unique and different from the other.
“I try to implement attractive and unique designs so that each piece has a personal touch.”
Although some of Assal’s pieces look quite simple, she said each one takes considerable time and consideration to design and construct. She said she takes great joy from working with “natural stones,” believing they “store positive energy.”
She said blue stones are her favorites, as they give her “a sense of peace and comfort.”
All of Assal’s designs are original and “handmade with love.” She continues to seek out and learn new techniques to make each piece not only fashionable, but also memorable.
