The Walk With Raffa | The Sacred Essence of ZamZam Jewels In conversation with Mehdi Draoui, founder and CEO of ZamZam Jewels

By Raffaella Campagnoli

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Image source: ZamZam Jewels
Mehdi Draoui, founder and CEO of ZamZam Jewels

There are brands that tell stories, and then there are brands that embody stories—living, breathing testaments to heritage, faith, and culture. I discovered ZAMZAM Jewels™ during a coffee with its founder and designer, Mehdi Draoui, in Bali. What unfolded was a fascinating conversation about the spiritual resonance of one of Islam's most sacred symbols, and the value of holy water as referenced in the Bible. Mehdi walked me through a world of spirituality shaped in Bali—born from a personal journey through history, religion, and sacred texts.

The Vision Behind ZAMZAM Jewels™: how is your brand born?

At the heart of ZamZam Jewels™ is a passion for history, religion, spirituality—and my deep-rooted love for Islamic heritage: its stories, symbols, and miracles.

Back in Europe, I spent years working in the luxury industry, particularly in jewelry. It felt natural to arrive at the intersection between spirituality and high-end design. My creations are reflections of faith, culture, and deeply personal—almost secret—devotion. Drawing inspiration from Islamic architecture, sacred scriptures, and centuries-old craftsmanship, my work is a tribute to the beauty of faith in everyday life.

My commitment to authenticity and artistic excellence has positioned ZAMZAM Jewels™ as a unique presence in the jewelry market—redefining what it means to wear faith, remembrance, and elegance as a single statement.

Mehdi Draoui, founder and CEO of ZamZam Jewels, in conversation with Raffaella Campagnoli.

A Brand rooted in Devotion: how did you get to such an inspirational and spiritual concept?

I've always found it curious that so few luxury brands are rooted in Islamic culture and created for Muslims, by Muslims—while still being accessible and meaningful for the world at large.

I envisioned a brand that builds a common thread among us, a meaningful brand shaped by identity and belief. ZAMZAM Jewels™ isn't just about crafting jewelry—it's about translating devotion into design, faith into form, and spirituality into something tangible.

Named after the revered Zamzam Well in Mecca—believed to be a divine gift and a source of healing—our jewelry allows you to carry a trace of this miracle every day. It is a reminder of the beautiful story of Hagar and her baby, lost in the desert, saved by God through the angel Jibril. It's the timeless story of a mother's love, resilience, and the divine compassion that answered her call.

Each ZAMZAM Jewels™ piece reflects the sacred elements of Islam, blending artistry with deep meaning. The motifs, materials, and intricate details are never random; they are intentional symbols of a faith that transcends centuries and borders. From calligraphic inscriptions to patterns rooted in Islamic geometry, the brand is a fusion of aesthetics and spirituality.

Image source: ZamZam Jewels

The Spiritual Significance Behind the Creations: how do you create this incredible mix of unique elements?

Jewelry is often seen as an expression of identity, and in the case of ZamZam Jewels™, it becomes an extension of faith. Each piece is crafted with symbolism in mind:

  • Holy water as Inspiration: the essence of purity and blessing, Mecca's holy water is at the heart of the brand's philosophy. Our pieces are infused with the sacred water: my creations are more than just ornaments—they are amulets of faith; reminders of the Miracles of God !
  • Islamic Geometry: the meticulous patterns seen in Islamic architecture find their way into ZamZam's designs, evoking harmony, balance, and the infinite nature of divine wisdom;
  • Calligraphy & Inscriptions: Arabic calligraphy, such as the holy name "Allah" or the profession of faith "La Ilaha Illa Allah", is delicately engraved in discreet ways—allowing the sacred to accompany the wearer privately, respectfully
  • Precious Stones with Meaning: We use a unique black gemstone reminiscent of the Black Stone of the Kaaba, another divine sign. We often incorporate black onyx, known for its protective and grounding energy—it absorbs negativity and strengthens the soul.

You talked about Craftsmanship. What is it the reason for forging islamic jewelry in Bali, the only Hindu Island in Indonesia?

Bali is home to some of the world's most talented artisans. The Balinese are patient, precise, and incredibly gifted when it comes to detail and aesthetics. Their natural affinity for beauty and symbolism makes the island a perfect hub for meaningful craftsmanship.

Additionally, the island's growing Muslim community from Java brings a deeper connection to Islamic culture, forming a beautiful creative environment. Our artisans—Muslim and Hindu—don't just craft the jewelry; they feel part of the story and are proud to spread the miracles and stories of Islam across the globe.

Each ZamZam collection explores a different facet of the Islamic spiritual journey—whether it's the serenity of Mecca, the divine messages of the Quran, or the cosmic elegance of divine creation. Our pieces are made to be worn, understood, and cherished as heirlooms of faith.

A Reflection of Modern Islamic Luxury: is it a significantly growing market?

Absolutely. ZAMZAM Jewels™ is positioned in a growing niche: faith-driven consumers with a strong connection to their culture and identity, who seek both beauty and meaning.

In today's world, personalized and culturally significant luxury is more in demand than ever. ZAMZAM Jewels™ offers more than jewelry—it offers a form of conscious adornment, grounded in tradition but interpreted through modern craftsmanship.

We are part of a wider cultural shift in the Muslim world: a revival of heritage, pride, and spirituality within luxury. Consumers want to wear their values. And ZAMZAM jewels™ delivers just that—jewelry that's not only worn but felt. Many of our clients share the same story: once they wear it, they can't take it off—for reasons that often feel mystical.

I am fascinated by this brand and what it represents: I feel like ZAMZAM Jewels™ is representing a philosophy much beyond jewelry, right?

ZAMZAM Jewels' vision goes far beyond jewelry. It's a movement, a philosophy, and a celebration of faith and belonging in daily life.

Whether through partnerships with Islamic scholars, collaborations with artists, or immersive storytelling on digital platforms, we aim to create a vibrant ecosystem where faith-driven luxury becomes a way of life.

As Islamic fashion and design continue to evolve, ZAMZAM Jewels™ reminds us that true luxury isn't just about gold and gemstones. It's about the stories we carry, the faith we embrace, and the legacy we leave behind.

For those who seek beauty with meaning, adornment with purpose, and jewelry that speaks the language of the soul—ZAMZAM Jewels™ is a spiritual journey wrapped in gold and light.

Related: The Walk with Raffa | Ashiss Kumar Dash, EVP and Global Segment Head, Infosys
Raffaella Campagnoli

Founder and Managing Director, LIRA Strategy Partners

Raffaella Campagnoli is the founder and Managing Director of LIRA Strategy Partners.

With over 20 years of experience in strategy consulting in international firms, she was formerly the Managing Director at Accenture Strategy Middle East and Turkey for nine years. Raffaella left Accenture after 13 years at the company, during which she led transformation programs in multiple regions (Europe, US, Turkey, Singapore, Middle East), specialized in strategic planning, operating model transformation, zero based budgeting, digital transformation and innovation, ecosystem strategy.

Raffaella has been leading impactful transformations in industries like travel and hospitality, fashion, consumer products goods, and retail, thereby  developing a trusted network of partners and experienced professionals. 

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