In the world of jewellery design, the bond between mothers and daughters can create a unique synergy, blending generational perspectives and shared passions. This UAE Mother's Day, we delve into the heartwarming stories of two mother-daughter duos who have turned their creative connection into thriving jewellery businesses. Through candid conversations, they share their experiences of designing together, balancing family ties with business roles, and the invaluable lessons they've learned from each other along the way.
Tanaz and Ladan of Shay Jewellery
In conversation with Tanaz Shayan, co-founder of jewellery brand Shay Jewelry, MOJEH delves into the dynamic between the mother-daughter duo as they navigate business and personal relationships.
Designing together as a mother-daughter duo must have its unique challenges and strengths. Can you share a specific instance where your differing perspectives led to a creative outcome?
Tanaz: One of the most exciting aspects of working together is blending our generational perspectives into each design. A great example of this was when we first started experimenting with bold chain necklaces. Ladan was drawn to classic, timeless gold links, while I wanted to push boundaries with chunkier, diamond pavé styles. Initially, we had different ideas on what the final look should be, but through collaboration, we merged both visions - creating our signature Shay links that feel timeless. A testament to how our contrasting views often lead to our most exciting creations.
Jewellery often carries sentimental value. How do your own personal experiences and family stories influence the emotional resonance of your designs, especially when considering pieces meant for mothers and daughters?
Tanaz: Jewellery is deeply personal, and for us, it has always symbolised love, connection and legacy. As a mother-daughter duo, we naturally infuse that sentiment into our designs, particularly in our stacking concept—which allows pieces to be layered and collected over time, much like a jewellery diary. Some of our designs are inspired by heirloom pieces, created with the idea of being worn across generations.
In a world of rapidly changing trends, how do you balance staying true to the brand's established aesthetic while also incorporating fresh, innovative ideas? And how do you each contribute to that balance?
Tanaz: Staying true to our brand means designing with our core elements: 18k gold, natural diamonds, and a focus on layering. However, we also love introducing fresh takes on our classic designs. Ladan, with her years of experience, ensures we maintain timelessness and quality, while I bring a fashion-forward approach, keeping an eye on evolving trends. We find balance by evolving within our aesthetic rather than following trends - introducing new gemstone colours, unexpected silhouettes, and playful proportions that still feel inherently Shay.
How do you separate your roles as mother and daughter from your roles as business partners? Are there any specific techniques you use to maintain that balance?
Tanaz: One of the biggest things we’ve learned is communication and mutual respect. We make a conscious effort to listen to each other’s ideas and separate personal feelings from business decisions. When we’re working, we approach everything with a shared goal: making Shay the best it can be. Outside of work, we carve out time to just be mother and daughter, whether it’s having dinner together or spending time with family. Discover the collections
Sweta and Chandni of Swe Me Jewellery
With the Disco Bug collection showcasing the personalities of Swe Me's two founders, we learn more about the jewellery brand from Sweta and Chandni Mehta.
Designing together as a mother-daughter duo must have its unique challenges and strengths. Can you share a specific instance where your differing perspectives led to a creative outcome?
Sweta: Our creative process thrives on the interplay between experience and fresh perspective. One memorable instance was during the development of our Disco Bug collection. Our initial prototype for the ring was flatter and more understated - I felt this would make it easier to wear, as I was concerned a ball shape might feel too bulbous on the finger. But Chandni believed that if Disco Bug was about capturing the bold, playful spirit of the collection, the ring had to embody that energy just as much as the other pieces. She pushed for a full spherical shape, and ultimately, we embraced the idea. The result was a strikingly sculptural ring that truly captured the essence of the collection. It was a perfect example of how our differing perspectives enhance our designs, merging practicality with fearless creativity.
Jewellery often carries sentimental value. How do your own personal experiences and family stories influence the emotional resonance of your designs, especially when considering pieces meant for mothers and daughters?
Sweta: One of our most personal collections, Disco Bug, is inspired by a core childhood memory. When I was young, my parents hosted a housewarming party, and I remember being completely mesmerised by a disco ball spinning in the room. The way it scattered light in every direction, transforming the space with colour and movement, felt almost magical. That memory stayed with me - the idea that something so small could create such an immersive, joyful experience. When designing Disco Bug, I wanted to capture that same feeling: the way jewellery, like that disco ball, can turn an ordinary moment into something extraordinary.
In a world of rapidly changing trends, how do you balance staying true to the brand’s established aesthetic while also incorporating fresh, innovative ideas? And how do you each contribute to that balance?
Sweta: We believe in timeless artistry, but we also embrace evolution. I bring a deep understanding of craftsmanship, sourcing and the nuances of fine jewellery, ensuring that every piece carries integrity and longevity. Chandni, on the other hand, is deeply attuned to cultural shifts and contemporary aesthetics, bringing a fresh, forward-thinking perspective. This dynamic allows us to refine classic silhouettes with unexpected elements - whether it’s unconventional settings, kinetic movement, or an interplay of textures.
How do you separate your roles as mother and daughter from your roles as business partners? Are there any specific techniques you use to maintain that balance?
Sweta: It’s a delicate balance, and we’ve learned that setting boundaries is essential. In the studio, we’re business partners first - focused on design, strategy and innovation. But outside of work, we consciously switch back to being mother and daughter, whether that’s sharing a meal, traveling or simply unwinding without any business talk.
What are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned from each other, both as designers and as family members, through this shared venture?
Chandni: From my mother, I’ve learned patience and the art of intuition. She has an innate ability to see the beauty in raw materials, letting a design evolve naturally rather than forcing it. She approaches each piece with deep respect for craftsmanship, never rushing the creative process. Watching her work has shaped the way I approach not just jewellery, but creativity as a whole. Discover the collections
