DANAT unveils definitive volume on Egyptian royal jewellery heritage 

The book is a scholarly exploration of the Alawite dynasty’s remarkable jewellery collection, tracing the opulent legacy of Egypt’s royal treasures from Muhammad Ali Pasha to King Fouad II 

Manama, Bahrain: The Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstones (DANAT) has launched a publication, ‘Egyptian Royal Family Jewellery’, at the prestigious Jewellery Arabia 2024 exhibition. This comprehensive volume offers an unprecedented insight into the opulent jewellery heritage of Egypt’s Alawite dynasty, presenting a meticulously researched narrative of royal craftsmanship and cultural significance. 

Published through a collaboration between DANAT and the Nafayes Foundation, the book is the result of meticulous research by Dr. Abdullah Al-Sulaiti. It chronicles the extraordinary jewellery collection of a dynasty that ruled Egypt from the early 19th century, beginning with Muhammad Ali Pasha and extending to King Fouad II, capturing the intricate details of royal adornment across generations. 

The publication is more than a mere catalogue; it is a historical document that traces the evolution of royal jewellery through intricate designs and remarkable artefacts. From traditional Middle Eastern craftsmanship to the sophisticated techniques of European jewellery houses, the book illuminates the cultural and artistic significance of these priceless treasures, offering readers a deep dive into the aesthetic and historical context of each piece. 

Key highlights include the iconic Muhammad Ali necklace, a spectacular gold-and-diamond masterpiece commissioned by Sultan Hussein Kamel, which epitomises the dynasty’s exceptional taste and patronage of the decorative arts. This singular piece represents the pinnacle of royal jewellery design, showcasing the intricate skills of craftsmen and the luxurious lifestyle of Egypt’s ruling class. 

The book’s unveiling at the Diamond Dialogues Stage of Jewellery Arabia 2024 drew a distinguished audience, including Amina El Demirdash, granddaughter of Princess Faiqa, and Noora Jamsheer, CEO of DANAT. The publication has already received notable acclaim, with a personal letter of appreciation from King Fouad II himself, further cementing its historical and cultural importance. 

For collectors, historians, and jewellery enthusiasts, this volume represents an invaluable resource. It provides unprecedented access to one of the most significant royal jewellery collections in the Arab world, documenting designs that span from traditional to modern aesthetics and offering insights into the artistic and cultural expressions of Egypt’s royal family. 

‘Egyptian Royal Family Jewellery’ is now available for purchase at the Nafayes Boutique in Manama and DANAT’s headquarters, offering a rare glimpse into a remarkable royal legacy that spans generations of Egyptian history, craftsmanship, and unparalleled artistic expression. 

Retail Jeweller ME News