SPOTLIGHT: Mr Noel Samra

Interview - Taj Hayer

The world of men’s luxury jewellery has not seen any new blood for quite some years. That was until the launch of Noel Jewellery who boast a rich family heritage in jewellery design that spans over three generations.

Mr Noel Samra has grown up surrounded by and immersed in the world of fine jewellery, as his father had a real passion and artistic flair for exquisite jewellery. Described as “the Dubai diamond expert” The House of Samra has become synonymous with innovation, creative vision and superior quality allowing Samra to become one of the leading jewellery houses in the Gulf Region. Noel has travelled extensively between Dubai and London and after graduating with a Masters in Luxury and a Gemologist from London, his debut collection drew on his lifelong love of travel, the arts and spirituality.

What can you tell us about your family heritage in jewellery design?

The legacy of jewellery design within our family is one of profound dedication. Spanning over three generations, the commitment to exquisite craftsmanship and enduring beauty has remained unwavering. Commencing with my late grandfather, the artistry of jewellery became an inseparable facet of my upbringing. From an early age, I found myself immersed in the realm of precious gems and intricate designs. Trade shows provided a backdrop to my formative years, while the medium of paper and coloured pencils evolved into my earliest vehicles of creative design expression. This heritage stands as the cornerstone of our brand in the Gulf region, imbuing each creation with an everlasting aura of refinement and an unswerving allegiance to the art of jewellery design.

Why specifically launch a men’s collection?

The decision to launch a men's collection was driven by a distinct need for men to express themselves through fine jewellery. While the options for women's jewellery abound with various designers and styles, the same cannot be said for men's jewellery. Throughout my upbringing, I perceived a stark absence of representation for men within the realm of fine jewellery. This observation, coupled with my personal experiences, motivated me to take action. Following my graduation, I undertook the task of addressing this void and bringing forth a collection that not only fills a gap but also redefines the landscape of men's fine jewellery, offering a range of choices and styles that had been long overdue.

How has the reaction to the collection been since the launch?

The response to the collection since its launch has been truly remarkable. The outpouring of support and feedback from men has been overwhelmingly positive and encouraging.

Who would you say that the collection is aimed towards?

The collection is curated for individuals who embody a rebellious spirit – those unafraid to make a statement and manifest their unique style through meticulously crafted fine jewellery. Each piece is a testament to unparalleled artistry and craftsmanship, catering to those who seek to stand out and showcase their distinctive persona.

Do any of the pieces in the current collection hold any specific memories for you?

The Revolution Bangle stands as one of the initial designs I created, marking the foundation for the entire collection. Originally crafted for my personal use prior to considering the inception of my brand, the bangle holds sentimental value. However, the collection's expansion was fuelled by the enthusiastic feedback and numerous requests, propelling its evolution.

Were there any technical difficulties in bringing any of the pieces to life?

The journey of bringing each piece in the collection to life wasn't without its technical challenges. The meticulous work of skilled artisans played a crucial role, requiring multiple iterations to achieve the desired visual and tactile experience. Despite the unconventional and rebellious design elements, such as spiked shapes and upside-down diamond settings, I was committed to ensuring wearer comfort.

Have you seen any differences between how men wear jewellery in the UK and the Gulf Region?

There are noticeable differences in how men wear jewellery between the UK and the Gulf Region. In the UK, men tend to embrace a bolder and more playful approach to jewellery, often pushing the boundaries of their personal style and displaying a strong fashion-forward attitude. On the other hand, men in the Gulf Region seek jewellery that is distinctive, unique, and tailored to their individual preferences. Regardless of location, both groups of men appreciate the concept of fine jewellery designed with their specific tastes in mind.

What is the brand’s approach to sustainable and ethically sourced jewellery?

The Noel brand is committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing in our Jewellery creations. We prioritise using ethically sourced diamonds, gemstones, gold, and have established a clear and traceable process for the creation of our pieces. By utilising carbon-neutral gold, traceable gemstones, and adhering to a supplier code of conduct, we firmly uphold the brand's sustainable values.

Explore further and shop the collection at Noel Jewellery.