MEET THE DESIGNER
Dana Al Nafisi emerged as a pioneer in the fine jewelry industry when she established her business in Kuwait in 2007. Driven by a deep passion for design and storytelling, Dana’s journey began by creating pieces for her social circle, gradually gaining recognition and evolving into one of the most respected jewelry brands in the region. Alongside her creative pursuits, Dana pursued academic endeavors, earning degrees from esteemed institutions such as a gemology degree from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and professional courses in jewelry design from Central Saint Martins.
In pursuit of further growth, she journeyed to Florence in 2015 to pursue a diploma in contemporary jewelry. Subsequently, she earned her master’s degree at Instituto Marangoni Milano, where she fulfilled a requirement for her degree by undergoing artistic mentorship with a distinguished Italian jewelry brand. Dana’s dedication to her craft and continuous pursuit of knowledge have not only enriched her skills but also established her as a respected figure in the global jewelry community, celebrated for her artistry and commitment to excellence.
THE PROCESS
Dana Al Nafisi’s jewelry-making process is deeply rooted in meticulous design and structure, drawing inspiration from her travels, historical contexts, and imagined narratives. Beginning with a conceptual foundation, Dana explores various techniques to bring her designs to life, ensuring each piece embodies her artistic vision. Central to her process is the careful selection of materials and gemstones, meticulously evaluated for their suitability to enhance the overall aesthetic and narrative.
THE CRAFTSMANSHIP
Dana’s craftsmanship extends beyond the design phase as she collaborates closely with skilled craftspeople to bring her vision to life. Guiding them through the implementation of techniques and desired finishes, Dana ensures that every detail of her design is meticulously executed, including the incorporation of chosen materials and gemstones. Her profound understanding of various techniques not only enhances the quality of her work but also fosters effective communication and collaboration with the artisans she works with.
THE PRINCIPALS
At Danafisi, sustainability and ethical practices lie at the core of our principles, driving every decision we make. We prioritize responsibly sourcing materials and maintain ethical agreements with our suppliers, ensuring our commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Additionally, we are dedicated to empowering and supporting women through various initiatives.
Notably, we have created simple yet impactful pieces to raise awareness for breast cancer in Kuwait. In 2011, a percentage of our proceeds supported a local breast cancer foundation, and in 2012, we launched a partnership with Breast Care Kuwait to promote awareness for screenings and mammograms. These initiatives underscore our belief in using our platform to make a positive impact on society, particularly in supporting women’s health and well-being. Looking ahead, Danafisi remains steadfast in our commitment to sustainability, ethics, and supporting causes that support social and environmental development.
