Maryah Abudeeb, a sourcing specialist, has turned her passion for Arabic calligraphy and jewelry into a thriving business with her brand, Mashq. Inspired by her father's calligraphy skills and her mother's creative spirit, Abudeeb found her artistic inspiration at a young age. As she traveled and encountered historic Arabic writing and jewelry engraved with calligraphy, her love for Islamic art deepened. During the COVID-19 lockdown, Abudeeb had a brilliant idea to merge her two passions, leading to the birth of Mashq.
In March 2021, Abudeeb launched her first collection, where she took on the role of both calligrapher and jewelry designer. Each piece of jewelry features verses and lines from beloved Arabic poetry and literature. The meticulous design process involves transferring her calligraphy into 3D using specialized jewelry design software. The pieces are then brought to life either by hand or with the assistance of machines, depending on the size and complexity.
However, for Abudeeb, the true value of her jewelry lies in the emotional connection it creates. By incorporating different phrases and materials like silver, gold plating, and gems, she aims to help customers feel a personal bond with the engraved words. When wearing a Mashq piece, the phrase becomes a reflection of the wearer's emotions or serves as a source of motivation.
Building Mashq has been a journey of learning for Abudeeb. Starting from scratch, she has gained extensive knowledge in the jewelry industry, from drawing designs to repairing the pieces themselves. Despite facing challenges due to her limited practical experience, Abudeeb's determination and perseverance have propelled her forward.
Looking ahead, Abudeeb envisions expanding Mashq's offerings with a larger collection featuring pure gold pieces and a dedicated men's collection. With her commitment to showcasing the beauty of Islamic art and literature through her jewelry, Abudeeb continues to inspire others with her unique creations.