UAE Unveils Its First Homegrown Gemstone from Fujairah Mountains

The UAE has officially introduced its first locally sourced gemstone.

Named Spirit of the Emirates, the natural red jasper stone was discovered in Fujairah’s Al Siji region and recently unveiled at the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show in Sharjah. The gemstone has already been transformed into jewellery pieces by Emirati designer and gemmology specialist Fatima Al Muhairi.

The launch is more than just a new addition to the jewellery market. It shines a spotlight on the UAE’s natural resources and opens the door for designers to work with materials sourced from within the country itself.

A gemstone with roots in the UAE

For years, the UAE has been recognised as one of the region’s leading destinations for gold, diamonds and luxury jewellery. While the country has a long history linked to pearls, gemstones used in jewellery have largely been imported from abroad.

That is what makes Spirit of the Emirates different.

The red jasper was extracted from the mountains of Fujairah, one of the UAE’s most naturally diverse emirates. Known for its rugged landscapes and mountain ranges, Fujairah is often associated with outdoor tourism and natural beauty. Now, it is gaining attention for something else entirely.

The discovery came through a collaboration between the Emirati Goldsmiths Platform and Fujairah Natural Resources Corporation, helping bring a locally sourced gemstone into the spotlight for the first time.

What exactly is red jasper?

Red jasper is a natural stone known for its deep, earthy red colour and durability. According to details shared during the launch, the stone has a hardness rating of between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for jewellery and decorative creations.

Its polished finish gives it an attractive appearance, while its strength allows it to be shaped into intricate designs.

Jasper has been used in jewellery around the world for centuries, but having a variety sourced from within the UAE gives it a special significance for local designers and collectors.

The stone’s name, Spirit of the Emirates, reflects that connection to the country’s land, heritage and identity.

Emirati designer brings the stone to life

To mark the launch, Fatima Al Muhairi unveiled two custom-made jewellery pieces featuring the Fujairah gemstone.

The first piece shares the same name as the stone itself — Spirit of the Emirates. The design draws inspiration from several elements that represent the UAE, including mountains, palm trees and architectural features inspired by Al Muwaiji Fort.

A natural pearl was also included in the design, creating a link between the UAE’s historic pearl-diving traditions and this new chapter in the country’s jewellery story.

The second piece, called Erth, takes the shape of a camel’s head. It combines the Fujairah jasper with a pearl sourced from Ras Al Khaimah, bringing together natural elements from different parts of the UAE.

Together, both pieces tell a story that is deeply rooted in Emirati culture.

A new symbol of UAE heritage and craftsmanship

The launch comes at a time of growing interest in products that celebrate local identity and craftsmanship.

Across the UAE, there has been increasing support for homegrown brands, local designers and projects that showcase the country’s heritage in modern ways. Spirit of the Emirates fits naturally into that movement.

For jewellery designers, having access to a locally sourced gemstone creates new creative opportunities. For collectors, it offers something unique that cannot be found elsewhere.

The project also highlights the potential of the UAE’s natural resources beyond the industries traditionally associated with them.

As the country continues to diversify its economy and promote local innovation, initiatives like this help create new stories around Emirati talent and craftsmanship.

Unveiled at one of the region’s biggest jewellery events

The gemstone made its public debut during the 57th Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show at Expo Centre Sharjah.

The event brought together designers, jewellers and industry professionals from across the region. The Emirati Goldsmiths Platform participated with 20 designers from around the UAE, including several first-time female exhibitors.

Alongside the gemstone launch, visitors also explored collections celebrating natural pearls, marine pearls and designs created by people of determination.

The unveiling of Spirit of the Emirates quickly became one of the standout moments of the exhibition.

FAQ’s

Q: What is Spirit of the Emirates?
A: Spirit of the Emirates is a natural red jasper gemstone discovered in Fujairah. It is the first gemstone to be officially sourced within the UAE.

Q: Where was the gemstone found?
A: The stone was extracted from the Al Siji region in Fujairah, known for its mountainous landscape.

Q: Who designed the jewellery pieces featuring the gemstone?
A: Emirati jewellery designer and gemmology specialist Fatima Al Muhairi created two exclusive designs using the stone.

Q: Why is the discovery important?
A: It introduces the UAE’s first locally sourced gemstone and provides new opportunities for Emirati jewellery designers and luxury brands.

Q: Where was the gemstone unveiled?
A: Spirit of the Emirates was officially revealed during the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show in Sharjah.

The UAE’s first locally sourced gemstone is more than a jewellery story. It is a reminder that the country’s landscape still holds discoveries capable of shaping new industries and inspiring local talent. With Spirit of the Emirates now taking centre stage, Fujairah has added another point of pride to its growing list of natural treasures.

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