Since her collaboration with Bristish designer Julien Macdonald, Egyptian jeweller AZZA FAHMY is everywhere. She’s recently published a book on traditional Egyptian jewelry and has also started a school to train craftmen and designers in jewelry design. Her brand – Azza Fahmy Jewelry (AFJ) – which employs 300 people, is often cited as the example to follow, with outlets across the Middle East, a soon to be store in London and a solid international reputation.

How do you explain your incredible success story?

Through focus, sheer dedication and tremendous hard work. I was blessed to have the support of my family and to have lucky breaks – the masters of El khan Khalili who let me train with them and the British Council who gave me the opportunity to build on and perfect what I had already learned. Significantly, my jewelry has stood the test of time with innovative and relevant designs creating broad appeal.

You recently published a book on traditional Egyptian jewelry? Do you think you have helped Egyptians rediscover a great art?

I sincerely hope so. As is the norm, if historic references are not captured, we loose them, and so important parts of our very rich heritage are lost. So yes, I have, and I also trust that this art will be fully recognized and celebrated for many years to come.

What would be your advice to young jewelry designers from the Arab world?

I would give this advice to every young designer: grasp every opportunity, don’t be discouraged by ‘knock-backs’ and work hard. Don’t be afraid to take risks, be innovative and above all, be true to your designs and yourself.

Does Azza Fahmy Jewelry, as a brand, have any plans for the future? More stores? Another collaboration with an international fashion designer? A school to train jewelry craftsmen?

We are continuing with our expansion plans both in the Middle East and and looking at retail opportunities in the US. We are currently working on our jewelry for the continued collaboration with Julien Macdonald – the outcome of which was seen during his London Fashion Week catwalk show last month. We have also just begun our training school for designers where we aim to equip this group of young people with the knowledge and skills to continue innovating and maintain our position as leading jewelry designers. We will also be launching our online retailing operation later in the year.

Finally, what do you carry in your handbag on a normal day?

A million things in my Bottega Veneta bag: My sketches and pencils, my books – right now I’m reading three – The World of Renaissance Florence (I plan to spend at least 1 month a year in Florence starting this year), Meditation of Ornaments and Thinking Through Crafts. My magnifying loupe, Body Shop lip balm and all the regular stuff: My phone, keys, etc. Fragrance – either Gucci Eau de Parfum or Armani Prive – plus a bottle of water.

Illustration by Gabriela Mot