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Locals have known it for a lifetime, long-term expats appreciate it and newcomers quickly feel a deep affection to the kingdom’s charm, writes Stan Szecowka.
And now folk are wearing it with style on their arms thanks to jeweller Hussain Al Khalo and his clever silversmiths who have produced what is believed to be Bahrain’s first charm bracelet.
“It can be tailor-made to suit each individual but each charm is associated with Bahrain and Arabic culture,” explained the Bahraini, who runs Harmony Jewels at the Gold Souq in Bab Al Bahrain. “It’s an original idea and something I’ve not seen elsewhere in the local marketplace.”
The popular sterling silver specials have been flying off the shelves since he introduced the collection this year and the prices vary depending on the number of charms and the thickness of the bracelet.
However, a starter pack of four charms and a bracelet at BD65 has been particularly popular. The charms are also sold individually from BD7 to BD14 so that one can be added on each special occasion as a gift.
“The reason I think they’ve proved so popular is that they reflect our Arabic culture – with everything from old windows to coffee pots. Charm bracelets tend to be personal and often have a special meaning which means they tend to be handed down from one generation to the next. They have tremendous sentimental value.
“Everybody appears to appreciate the detailed work that has gone into them and the feedback has been fantastic, expats leaving Bahrain want one as a memento or as gifts for family back home and locals just love the bracelet because it reflects their heritage.
“The reaction from regular customers has been strong too as they are introducing friends to my shop because of the bracelets as they love the style.”
Mr Al Khalo, is married to Brit Michaela. They have two children, Faris, 11, and Maya, nine, and live in Buquwa.
It’s not the first time that he has put Bahrain on the jewellery map. His Bahrain flag cufflinks are particularly popular and much copied and he is also renowned for his Bahraini pearl necklaces and pendants of platinum, silver and gold.
