Meet: Hanan Sultan
- Written byEleanor Harvey
- Published date 28 February 2025
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Hanan Sultan is a jewellery designer who is based between Muscat, Dubai and London. Her designs blend both traditional design and making techniques with contemporary technological ones.
This was seen particularly clearly in her final degree show collection from BA (Hons) Jewellery Design, Central Saint Martins in 2020. The collection featured Omani frankincense resin set in 18 karat gold with freshwater pearls. As each piece is worn the body’s heat interacts with the frankincense releasing a scent. The project was the culmination of 9 months of research and experimentation.
Hanan spoke to us about her time at UAL, her love of studying in London and what she’s up to now.
You initially completed a one-year course, Level 3 International: Introduction to the Study of Fashion, at London College of Fashion in 2017. What was that experience like?
The IISF course was an eye-opening experience for me. It introduced me to the vast spectrum of the fashion industry covering design, media and business. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring all aspects and the diverse exposure sparked an early interest in material culture and research. This later played a significant role in my academic and creative journey and approaches.
My focus was on design. I learnt about the different stages of creative processes, design inspiration, primary and secondary research, aesthetic and field research methods, idea generation, concept development. The course also highlighted the importance of sketching, draping and prototyping, using both traditional skills and technology. These skills laid the foundation for my future studies and helped me understand the importance of experimentation and interaction with my research.
My tutors were incredibly encouraging and nurturing. They helped me build my confidence and prepared me well for my undergraduate studies, by guiding, challenging and supporting my personal projects as I built my portfolio for university applications. Their mentorship was invaluable and solidified my passion for pursuing a career in jewellery design.
You went on to do you BA (Hons) Jewellery Design at Central Saint Martins. What drew you to that course?
I had previously done a foundation Fine Arts course in New York and during my time on the IISF course, I realised that jewellery design beautifully blurred the lines between fine art and fashion. The jewellery design course at CSM has an exceptional reputation and offered a unique blend of creativity and craftmanship.
What drew me to the course was its hands-on style of learning, having access to world-class facilities and bench training. The calibre of its alumni and the innovative work of its students also inspired me. The course’s focus on live project opportunities and industry collaborations offered valuable experiences, as well as the exciting prospect of presenting my work to an international audience at the degree show. CSM itself fostered experimentation and individuality, and I found that it was the ideal place for me to hone my craft and develop my creative identity.
Can you tell us about your experiences studying in London?
I loved studying in London; it was an incredibly inspiring and enriching experience. Living in such a vibrant city meant being endlessly exposed to a variety of cultural influences. From exploring markets, exhibitions, and engaging in creative activities to enjoying its culinary diversity and shopping districts, the city provided constant inspiration.
London’s unique blend of history and modernity fascinated me. Whether I was walking through historic neighbourhoods, experiencing the excitement of English football or exploring British history and theatre productions, there was always something new to discover. The travel accessibility within London, across the UK, and to Europe made it easy to explore further afield, adding to my overall experience.
The creative landscape was another highlight. I cherished being surrounded by the energy of London’s diverse artistic communities. I loved visiting Portobello Market, Berwick Street, Goldhawk Road and iconic locations such as Oxford Street, Bond Street, Saville Row, Jermyn Street, Hatton Garden, getting glimpses into different facets of fashion and jewellery retails.
Living in London during the rise and fall of in-person and online shopping offered me a front-row seat to the evolution of retail trends. From the heyday of Oxford Street’s Topshop to the rise of online shopping, alongside the growing influence of VR, AI and social media platforms like TikTok, I saw how consumer habits evolved pre- and post-COVID, shaping my understanding of the ever-changing creative and commercial landscapes.
Studying in London was truly transformative, offering endless inspiration and opportunities that continue to shape my work and perspective today. London remains a place I return to for inspiration.
What inspires you in your work?
My work is inspired by the interplay between the traditional and the contemporary, influencing my design, research, and manufacturing processes. I often draw inspiration from familial heirlooms, material and immaterial cultures. Cultural history and the humanities play a central role in shaping my creative vision, with my heritage serving as an influence.
Is there a piece/body of work that you are particularly proud of?
I am most proud of my degree show collection. It features an exquisite inlay of Omani Hojari Frankincense resin, set in 18 karat gold and lustrous freshwater pearls. Hallmarked in London, each piece is one-of-its-kind, forming a unique jewellery collection. As the jewellery is worn, the body’s natural heat interacts with the frankincense causing it to release its transformative aroma. This project was the culmination of 9 months of intense research, experimentation and material manipulation. I developed a novel cloisonné technique to set moulded resin of perfumed sap from the frankincense tree into gold trefoil settings that I learned to CAD (computer-aided design) at CSM.
The collection was not only a technical challenge but also a deeply personal exploration of heritage and identity. The idea drew inspiration from a necklace my mother was gifted at her wedding as part of her dowry, embodying marriage traditions in Omani culture.
This collection allowed me to combine traditional craftsmanship with innovation, blending cultural storytelling with contemporary jewellery design and making. It was exhibited at the 2021 London Design Festival as part of CSM’s BA Jewellery Design Class of 2020’s graduation showcase and received recognition for its originality and craftsmanship.
Five years after graduating from the College, I still get asked about this project as it continues to get media attention. Its impact and relevance have continued to resonate with people, which speaks to the enduring nature of its design and cultural significance. This project remains a testament to my passion for pushing the boundaries of jewellery design, and creating work that embodies luxury, sentiment and heritage.
What have you been up to since you graduated?
After graduating, I pursued an MA in Jewellery and Metal at the Royal College of Art, graduating in 2022. Following that, I moved to Dubai, where I’ve been focused on establishing my practice and expanding my presence from Muscat to Dubai.
Until recently, I specialised in bespoke jewellery design and private client commissions, as well as providing B2B creative consultancy in jewellery design. I also co-founded a traditional Omani men’s footwear brand called Tallah alongside my cousins. We have an online shop in addition to our brick-and-mortar in Muscat, and we’re continually working on expanding its reach.
What are you currently working on?
Currently, I’m focused on launching my own fine jewellery brand, which has been a dream in the making. I’m dedicated to creating timeless pieces that capture a balance of luxury, comfort, and emotional value. I continue to take bespoke jewellery projects upon special commission requests for private clients. It’s an exciting journey, and I can’t wait to share my vision with the world!
