Jewelry Trends for Women in the Gulf: Celebrating Timeless Craftsmanship, Design Excellence

By Hermoine Macura-Noble
Special to The Times Kuwait

Jewelry in the Gulf has long been a powerful symbol of heritage, femininity, and prestige. Today, it is also a statement of individuality and modern elegance. As women across the region redefine luxury on their own terms, jewelry trends for 2025–2026 reveal a thoughtful balance between tradition and contemporary design, where craftsmanship, storytelling, and personal expression take center stage.

At the heart of this evolution is a renewed reverence for artisanal mastery. Gulf women are increasingly investing in pieces that transcend fleeting trends— jewelry designed to be worn, cherished, and eventually passed down. As Suzy Menkes, internationally respected fashion critic, has observed, “Luxury is no longer about excess; it is about authenticity, heritage, and the skill of the maker.” This shift aligns seamlessly with the region’s deep cultural appreciation for fine craftsmanship.

Gold remains an enduring cornerstone of Gulf jewelry, but its presentation has evolved. Rather than purely ornate designs, women are gravitating toward refined silhouettes—bold cuffs, sculptural necklaces, and statement earrings that feel contemporary yet timeless. Polki jewelry, with its uncut diamonds and heritage settings, continues to experience a revival, particularly among women who appreciate tradition reimagined through a modern lens.

One of the most striking trends shaping the region is the growing love for colored gemstones. Emeralds, sapphires, tourmalines, kunzites, and morganites are increasingly sought after for their emotional depth and individuality. Jewelry stylist and fashion authority Rachel Zoe notes, “Color is confidence; it allows women to express personality and power without saying a word.” In the Gulf, where color holds cultural and aesthetic significance, gemstones offer both symbolism and visual impact.

This philosophy is beautifully captured in Hazoorilal Legacy’s ‘The Legacy Collection 2025-2026’, a refined celebration of craftsmanship and design innovation. Featuring an exquisite curation of gold, polki, diamonds, and handpicked natural gemstones, the collection embodies elegance with an edge; timeless yet unmistakably modern. Each stone is selected for its unique character, from the deep allure of emeralds and tourmalines to the soft radiance of kunzites, morganites, and sapphires.

Armaan Narang, Director of Hazoorilal Legacy, describes the collection as “a testament to our unwavering dedication to design mastery and exceptional craftsmanship. Every piece is a journey from imagination to form, shaped with precision, grace, and the enduring values that define Hazoorilal Legacy.” As the brand’s annual flagship showcase, the collection reflects a continual pursuit of refinement in fine jewelry-making.

Alongside Indian heritage brands, iconic Gulf brands are also shaping the region’s jewelry narrative. Mouawad, the legendary Middle Eastern jeweler, is renowned for its ultra-luxurious diamond creations and record-breaking designs. The brand’s emphasis on bold femininity and exceptional gemstones resonates strongly with Gulf women who appreciate grandeur paired with meticulous craftsmanship.

Meanwhile, Damas, one of the region’s most influential jewelry houses, continues to redefine everyday luxury. Known for blending Arabic design sensibilities with contemporary aesthetics, Damas caters to a new generation of women seeking versatile pieces that move effortlessly from day to evening – without compromising on heritage or quality.

Ultimately, the Gulf jewelry landscape is moving toward meaningful luxury. As Natalie King, former Fashion Director of Matches Fashion, aptly states, “The modern woman values jewelry that feels personal, enduring, and emotionally resonant.” In a region where legacy, artistry, and beauty are deeply intertwined, today’s jewelry trends are not just about adornment; they are about identity, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.

By Hermoine Macura-Noble
The first Australian English speaking News Anchor in the Middle East. She is also the Author of Faces of the Middle East and Founder of US-based 501c3 charity – The House of Rest which helps to ease the suffering of victims of war. For more from our Contributing Editor, you can follow her on Instagram, here.