Sparkle, Shimmer, Shine!
That’s exactly how December feels, doesn’t it? The end of the year, where everything glows just a little brighter, carries a rhythm of its own. But as festive as this season is, this issue of Gazetta didn’t come without its challenges. Technical delays kept us from releasing it on time, and as frustrating as that was, it made me think of a Middle Eastern saying: “What comes late comes perfect.” And maybe this issue landed at the right moment after all, to remind us of the beauty in waiting for something worthwhile.
Why jewelry? Because it’s not just sparkle—it’s connection. Jewelry tells stories, holds memories, and captures milestones. This issue was a natural way to honor that sentiment during a season so full of reflection and celebration.
Our cover, featuring Swe ME’s electrifying collection, is a tribute to the disco era, reimagined for today. It’s bold, expressive, and unapologetically joyous, capturing the spirit of self-expression and individuality that defines this issue. I see the cover not just as a showcase for jewelry but as a metaphor for everything we carry into the festive season—hope, celebration, and layers of meaning.
As we worked through this issue, I found myself drawn to certain stories again and again. Manuela Pirola’s exploration of The Psychology of Meaningful Gifting made me reflect on the emotional depth behind giving and how it’s the thought behind the gift that matters most. Chantal Ho-A-Hing reminds us of that beautifully in her piece, It All Starts and Ends with Family, where she shares memories of her grandmother’s wisdom, her husband’s mentorship, and the lessons she’s learned as a mother this year.
There’s also a touch of nostalgia in this issue. Writing On the Brink: AlMultaqa’s Ode to Survival and Cultural Revival, I found myself reflecting on strength and preservation, themes that resonate deeply during the holidays. Meanwhile, Robert McFadden, our guest contributor, offers a sharp and humorous take on navigating financial advice in Be Careful of Fool’s Gold on the Internet.
For jewelry lovers, pieces like Oceanic Whispers: Al Fardan Jewellery’s Ode to the Sea and Samantha Siu SS25: A Defining Chapter in Modern Jewelry showcase the power of craftsmanship to transform sentiment into art. And Sonia Haboub transports us to the Pacific with Polynesian Tribes: A Tapestry of Beliefs and Practices, immersing us in a world of enduring culture and tradition.
But that’s not all—this issue is brimming with insights and inspiration across our digital pages. There’s much more to explore, from captivating perspectives to the art and creativity that shape our world today.
Finally, I’m so elated about the evolution of The Gazetta-Cast! Jad & Mimi, our phenomenal hosts, are bringing December’s issue to life with conversations that explore these stories and share fresh perspectives. I’m endlessly grateful to Yousef Hammoda, whose vision and expertise made the podcast a reality, and of course, our global team of writers!
As we close out 2024, I can’t help but feel excited for what lies ahead. Gazetta has so much in store for 2025—new stories, fresh perspectives, and even more ways to connect with you. So, stay tuned and join us as we fly into a new year full of possibilities.
Here’s to a sparkling year ahead,
