Few things in this world can keep their beauty for years to come – jewellery is one of them. We met Dina Shirazi, Director at Bahrain Jewellery Centre, to talk about her experience in the industry and the symbols behind a precious jewel.
“Many memories and untold stories are created wearing certain special gems, and they become attached to their owner. There is sentiment to each piece, and that is what makes it so meaningful in eventually getting passed on for generations to come.”
– Dina Shirazi
OHLALA – The jewellery world has always been part of your life. What are your earliest memories of the Bahrain Jewellery Centre? Have you always planned to follow a career in the company?
Dina Shirazi – I have been intrigued by the jewellery world ever since I was a young girl, and it truly has been an intrinsic part of my life. I used to accompany my late father to work and was fascinated by this field. Eventually, I got involved in the business. This career path has come naturally to me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
OHLALA – What do you like most about working with gems and precious items?
Dina – Each stone has its own unique beauty and individual characteristic. As stunning as some gems are, there is a hidden world that is unbeknownst to the naked eye. I love delving into the breathtaking beauty of each precious item by closely examining its inclusions and finding out about its natural formation. I enjoy the excitement of identifying the gemstone, its origin, and how exactly it was formed within the Earth. There is so much to discover, just like a beautiful story unfolding, and this is what I find so enthralling.
OHLALA – What do you think makes luxury watches and jewellery so significant in people’s lives?
Dina – Jewellery and watches are luxury items so, with each purchase, there is thought and emotion that is provoked by the piece in its buyer. Its significance lies in the feelings encompassed by trying on the jewel, which leads its buyer to ensure that piece becomes their own. Many memories and untold stories are created wearing certain special gems, and they become attached to their owner. There is sentiment to each piece, and that is what makes it so meaningful in eventually getting passed on for generations to come.
OHLALA – What are the biggest challenges of working in this field?
Dina – The most significant challenges we face in this field are the ever-evolving styles and trends. What is current and indemand today may change tomorrow, so it is imperative to keep up and always be on the lookout for our customers’ preferences. There are, of course, anchor companies that will always remain but, at the end of the day, it is crucial to keep diversifying and embracing the new.
OHLALA – What is your personal preference for jewellery and watches? Any brand or specific design that you like most?
Dina – I do not have a personal preference when it comes to watches and jewellery. I believe every piece carries its own story at the time it was bought. However, I always encourage our clients in buying items that can become heirlooms. Heirloom pieces share history and tradition and tie families to previous generations. The most important factors in finding an heirloom piece are to ensure it has timeless value, a classic design, quality craftsmanship, and is made with gemstones of high durability.
OHLALA – As a Bahraini, what do you think is a hidden gem or a unique characteristic to the Kingdom that people should explore or know about?
Dina – Bahrain is such an enchanting island, and I know that both nationals and residents would agree on this. It has a very distinct charm that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. I believe the Bahraini people are what makes Bahrain so unique; they are so welcoming and warm, which encourages the diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures that adds to Bahrain’s beauty. As Bahrain carries a lot of culture and history, many heritage sites have been wonderfully preserved throughout the years. I think visiting any of these places will give a glimpse and feel of the energy that makes this country so significantly endearing.