When in dark times, many find solace in the idea of the light at the end of the tunnel.
Rebel Jewelry founder and designer Maire Helena Abou Jaoude Mrad first heard the phrase in childhood and, in countless instances, found it to be true.
Her “Tunnel” charm embodies the metaphor through its design.
Crafted in 18-karat yellow gold, the charm features an illusion effect where lines of rainbow enamel and gold create a path through forced perspective leading to an emerald-cut diamond that portrays the light at the end of the tunnel.
“This charm is a token of confidence that will serve all who are conscious of the inevitable challenges life brings,” said Abou Jaoude Mrad.
The piece is part of her latest “All Roads Lead to You” collection that debuted at Couture last week.
The collection was inspired by one’s search for purpose and meaning.
“Our journeys may be different, but we are all searching for the same answers. It’s all about perspective,” she said.
The Tunnel charm, with its design and meaning playing on perspective, is a perfect fit for her new collection.
“The Tunnel was brought to life by bridging a core truth we all face at some point in our journeys: dark times will arise and only through patience, seeking light, and changing our perspectives can [we] find our way to the end of that tunnel.”
The Tunnel charm was first designed with black enamel to highlight the contrast of darkness and light but after finalizing that version, Abou Jaoude Mrad felt that a deeper meaning could emerge from the use of rainbow-colored enamel for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Abou Jaoude Mrad was one of the seven designers in “The Iridescence by Couture” from the show’s Belonging @ Couture mentorship program.
A Beirut, Lebanon, native with a background in law, she moved to the United States in 2019 where she continued growing her jewelry brand.
Most of her designs are inspired by real life stories and focus on symbolism.
The Tunnel charm retails for $6,700 and will be available soon, along with the All Roads Lead to You collection, on the Rebel Jewelry website.
