Clara Chehab, a visionary with a decade of experience in investment banking, embarked on a transformative journey in her mid-thirties, leaving behind a lucrative career to pursue her passion for jewelry design. Her brand, Clara Chehab, launched in March 2023, is a testament to her dedication and unique artistic perspective. Chehab's creations are deeply personal, often drawing inspiration from her life experiences and an enduring connection to Mother Earth, reflected in her innovative use of raw and imperfect gemstones. This bold career shift, though challenging, has proven to be an exhilarating success, establishing her as a notable figure in the contemporary jewelry world.
Chehab's foray into the jewelry industry was meticulous and deliberate. After making the pivotal decision to depart from finance, she immersed herself in an internship and three years of private tutoring. This intensive period allowed her to acquire hands-on expertise in jewelry making, from conceptualization to the intricate processes of wax carving, casting, and stone setting. Her foundational collection, Gaia, launched in homage to Mother Earth and her bounty of diamonds and gemstones, underscores her profound appreciation for natural beauty. Subsequent collections, Sienna and Irene, named after her daughter and mother respectively, further illustrate the personal narrative woven into her designs.
The brand's momentum continued into 2025 with the introduction of two capsule collections. The Everyday Essentials collection was strategically developed to attract younger consumers seeking to diversify their jewelry collections. Concurrently, a collaborative capsule with Beirut's Sursock Museum, honoring significant Arab female artists, showcased Chehab's versatile design capabilities and her ability to merge art with heritage. The year also brought significant acclaim when Fashion Trust Arabia recognized her as one of three finalists for its prestigious jewelry prize, solidifying her standing in the industry. Chehab views each piece as a narrative of her personal evolution, aiming to evoke joy and empowerment in every woman who adorns her jewelry.
Chehab’s journey into jewelry was nurtured from a young age, influenced by her mother's affinity for colored gemstones and her paternal grandmother's visits to local goldsmiths. A particularly cherished memory involves her grandmother transforming a family heirloom diamond ring into earrings for Chehab’s first communion, an act that instilled a deep emotional value for jewelry in her. This early exposure to the artistry and sentimentality of jewelry laid the groundwork for her future endeavors. Her designs distinctively feature asymmetrical and raw gemstones, harmoniously combined with cut diamonds, creating unique 'gemscapes' that highlight the intrinsic beauty and character of each stone.
Clara Chehab's transition from the structured world of finance to the creative realm of jewelry design exemplifies a courageous pursuit of passion. Her brand, established on principles of personal storytelling and a deep respect for nature's offerings, has quickly gained international recognition. Through her unique aesthetic, characterized by vibrant, raw gemstones and meticulous craftsmanship, Chehab continues to redefine modern jewelry, crafting pieces that are not only beautiful but also resonate with emotional depth and a celebration of individuality.