Women designers revitalize Jordan's jewelry scene
- Women in Amman are leading a transformation in the jewelry industry, creating unique pieces inspired by traditional styles.
- Ola Medanat, trained as an architect, founded the Oh Em Jay jewelry brand in 2012 amidst a growing scene.
- The increasing use of 3-D printing technology has made jewelry design more accessible and sparked involvement among women.
Jordan is experiencing a significant evolution in its jewelry industry, particularly in the capital, Amman. This shift is primarily driven by female designers who are also architects, artists, and graphic designers. Since the beginning of the 21st century, the country's rich jewelry heritage has been creatively reinterpreted into contemporary pieces. Many designers reference historical motifs from various cultural influences, including Egyptian, Roman, and Byzantine traditions, as well as the intricate designs of Bedouin culture. The jewelry landscape began to flourish particularly after 2012, when Ola Medanat established the Oh Em Jay brand, making strides in a previously male-dominated field. With the rise of innovative technologies like 3-D printing, more women have entered the jewelry business, facilitating the creation of unique pieces that can cater to modern tastes while honoring traditional aesthetics. Medanat highlights that this accessibility has sparked a newfound interest in jewelry design among women in the region, enhancing the local scene and fostering community among designers. The colorful and bold creations, such as Medanat's Chonky bracelets and intricate necklaces, have gained attention, including that of notable figures like Queen Rania of Jordan, showcasing the potential of contemporary Jordanian jewelry on larger platforms.