My Life In Jewellery: Joanna Laura Constantine

/ 29 April 2025

My Life In Jewellery: Joanna Laura Constantine

Known for her symbolic, sculptural designs and dedication to craftsmanship, Joanna Laura Constantine has become one of the region’s most celebrated jewellery designers. From her Beirut atelier, she crafts pieces rooted in storytelling – celebrating strength, femininity and transformation. Now, as she partners with SheerLuxe Middle East and Etoile La Boutique on a special edit in support of a Lebanese charity, she reflects on the pieces that shaped her journey, the milestones that matter – and why pearls remain at the heart of everything she creates.

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My earliest memory of jewellery is watching my grandmother dress up for our family lunch. She always wore a pair of stud earrings with intricate detailing or delicate pearl earrings – even when spending the day at home. I remember being mesmerised by the way they completed her look and how the stones and pearls caught the light. To me, they were a symbol of grace, femininity and strength, qualities that I’ve always associated with jewellery since.

I’ll never forget the piece that made me realise jewellery would always be part of my life. I was back in Beirut for the summer, still studying fashion at Parsons in New York, when a pair of statement gold earrings with a beautiful matte texture caught my eye. I struck up a conversation with the boutique’s owner – an elegant older lady – and from that moment, I was hooked.

Launching my brand came from a LOVE OF FASHION – and a deeper desire to TELL STORIES through design.

Over time, I feel my designs have matured with me through experience in this field and for being in the industry for almost 15 years. It’s evolved into something deeply personal and intentional. Today, they’re more detailed, with fluid shapes, intricate finishes and organic textures. My designs represent the woman I am today.

Feminine Waves is the collection closest to my heart. It was born during a deeply reflective time in my life and carries symbolism around rebirth, softness and strength – a love letter to womanhood. I’ve been evolving it for seasons now, and there’s one set I wear every day: a pair of hoop earrings and a matching cuff. They feel organic – simple, yet statement – and have become part of who I am.

For me, jewellery is both instinctive and emotional. I select pieces to complete a look for a certain occasion and at the same time, I collect pieces that mark turning points and milestones in my life. Each one has a story to tell – and one day, I’ll share those stories with my daughter, Keera.

Launching my brand came from a love of fashion – and a deeper desire to tell stories through design. I’d always dreamed of being part of the fashion world, but it was during my time at Parsons that I discovered a real passion for accessories. From there, I gradually found my way into fashion jewellery. My first collection was a tribute to Lebanon’s culture and heritage – full of filigree, rich textures and bold, statement pieces.

I would describe my brand’s aesthetic as feminine, symbolic and textural. I design for the modern woman who connects deeply with storytelling and who see jewellery as a reflection of themselves. Each piece is made to be worn, loved and passed on. The new collection is more of the same, it features sculpted seashells, cultured pearls, and irregular, wave-like shapes.

Craftsmanship is at the core of everything we do. I work closely with skilled artisans, often incorporating unexpected textures or organic forms into the metalwork. All our pieces are handmade in our atelier in Beirut and use the same technique and savoir-faire of fine jewellery applied on fashion jewellery.

There have been so many highlights, but this collaboration with SheerLuxe Middle East feels especially meaningful. It’s a proud moment – one that connects me back to my roots. Lebanon is such a big part of my story, so to give back through this partnership, and showcase my collection in such a supportive space, feels like coming full circle. It’s a reminder of how creativity and community can drive real change. Other standout moments include winning a design award in 2017, being an FTA finalist and seeing my pieces worn by incredible women like Bella and Gigi Hadid, and Katie Holmes – from the red carpet to the Super Bowl.

What means the most is hearing how my pieces make women feel. I’m always proud when someone says a design made her feel seen, powerful – or that she’s worn it for years. From a celebrity point of view, Alicia Keys has been wearing her Feminine Waves pearl hoops for over two years – from the Super Bowl and her Broadway launch to video selfies at home or in the car with her son. Knowing she reaches for them time and again means everything.

I am drawn to the iconic style of Loulou de la Falaise who was the muse of Yves Saint Laurent. She was the queen of stacking bold, expressive pieces. I also deeply admire designers who balance craftsmanship and storytelling. I have a great respect for the work of Azza Fahmy, I think she is ahead of her time.

There have been so many highlights, but this collaboration with SheerLuxe Middle East feels ESPECIALLY MEANINGFUL.

If I had to pick one material I’m most drawn to, it would be pearls – without a doubt. They’re organic, sensual and full of quiet mystery. Jewellery is about energy, memory and beauty. Pearls for example, symbolise transformation and wisdom, which is why they are such a cornerstone of my work.

The most sentimental piece in my collection is my wedding ring – I designed it myself. It is a set of three wavy organic rings with the one in the middle it has the handset diamond. It is a gentle reminder of what grounds me. Otherwise, I love collecting vintage pieces, especially ones with a story or imperfect detail. I am drawn to anything with a soul, history or a handmade feel.

One dream I still hope to realise? A true statement piece. I dream of creating a large scale wearable sculpture – a statement necklace that blurs the line between jewellery and art. Something that tells a powerful story of a woman and which also symbolises the rebirth of Beirut as a city. Right now, there’s a lot in the works. I’m currently working on an exciting new collaboration, which will be revealed next month, and I’m also developing a fine jewellery line.

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