Diamonds Are Forever

Valerie Messika is challenging jewellery-making traditions with her contemporary eye for unique designs that are as exquisite as they are precious

The jewellery industry has a lot of tradition and history that can be hard to rival, but Messika is doing just that.

Founded by Valerie Messika 15 years ago, her contemporary approach to working purely with diamonds has disrupted, and in a way, woken up the jewellery realm to new and contemporary ways of creating adornment, that women can feel confident and special wearing. Growing up surrounded by diamonds thanks to her father, Valerie was keen to create a brand that catered beyond the classic engagement rings, and offered women something they can gift themselves. For such a young brand, she has grown a loyal client base including A-list fans such as Beyoncé and Gigi Hadid, with whom she designed two collections.

How exactly did Messika break the traditional mould of jewellery-making, and what does the future hold for this sparking Maison? We find out below.

What pieces can we look forward to discovering in the Dubai boutique?

I presented Gigi Hadid’s second collection called My Soul that I did with her. We started two years ago with the Move Addiction, which is an interpretation of the Move because I was celebrating my 10th anniversary. For this new collection it was mainly her inspiration and more about bohemia. It’s her Palestinian roots, and it reminds her of her origins. She was obsessed with bracelets and chokers.

Which collection do you feel does well here and why?

The Move collection where the diamonds are moving. This is the iconic collection because it’s recognisable and it’s a symbol of love with three diamonds that are moving which symbolise “I love you yesterday, today and tomorrow“. You can mix in match within this collection and it’s for all generations.

Where do you seek inspiration?