

Moments in Light: De Beers Celebrates the Brilliance of Talented Women
De Beers Diamond Jewellers is all about celebrating the brilliance of diamonds and the brilliance of women. On September 18, the ‘Jeweller of Light’ lived its vision by continuing the celebration of brilliance with its special project, ‘Moments in Light.’
The project, which is close to De Beers’ heart, started two years ago, when the jewellery house started working with British photographer Mary McCartney and charity partner, Women for Women International. “By celebrating talented women, we are both inspiring women to be proud of their own achievements as well as helping women in difficult situations around the world,” said Francois Delage, CEO, De Beers Diamond Jewellers.

Diana Krall photograped by Mary McCartney
By bringing together four exceptionally brilliant women, De Beers shone the light on the new protagonists for the 2015 edition of its photo-series: Zaha Hadid, Iraqi-British architect; Diana Krall, Canadian Jazz singer and pianist; Liya Kebede, Ethiopian-born model-actress and UN Goodwill Ambassador with the World Health Organization; and Karen Mok, actress and singer-songwriter.
At an exhibition and dinner in London, De Beers unveiled the portraits of these wonderful women – all of whom are pioneers in their field. This time, the resplendent diamonds took a backstage, as the jeweller fervently championed Women for Women International. The initiative – which seeks to help women survivors of war zones and rebuilding their lives – found a renewed source of inspiration in its partnership with De Beers and Mary McCartney.

Karen Mok photographed by Mary McCartney
The stellar photographer, who shared her incredible skill, passion and inspiration for the creative campaign, has captured the spirit of Zaha, Diana, Liya and Karen in a collection of delightful portraits that hinge on their unique stories, with each frame drawing upon their inner strength and beauty.
De Beers has been shining the spotlight on its muses, galvanising the next generation of women and empowering Women for Women International in its work in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo, Rwanda and Nigeria, among others.

Zaha Hadid, Brita Fernandez Schmidt, Diana Krall, Mary McCartney and Liya Kebede
“This is a very special project to me as it is about ‘Moments in Light’ and women inspiring other women,” said Mary. She believes that the artistic nature and talent of the protagonists would make other women want to “follow their own dreams.”
And this is the message that De Beers wishes to convey; judging but its unflinching support for the women’s organisation, the jewellery house sure has made a difference to the lives of scores of women across the globe – instilling in them a shimmer of hope for a better future.

WORDS
Smitha Sadanandan is a Chicago-based journalist covering the luxury industry with a glibal Lens. Her work has appeared in The New York Times International, Financial Times, South China Morning Post, and Vogue Arabia and India. Drawing on insight across Asia, Western, and Middle Eastern markets, she brings a nuanced, culturally attuned voice to platforms like the Natural Diamond Coucil and Prestige Hong Kong.
Latest Stories
Add articles and images to your favourites. Just

Reinventing Royalty:The European-Inspired Luxury Behind Isabel Gemology
I started 2025 with a series of articles titled ‘Jeweller of the Month’ to highlight the true talent among niche designers in the jewellery industry. For May, it is Isabel Delgado, the founder of Isabel Gemology, who I would like to shine the spotlight on.
Jewels Katerina Perez Loves
Continue Reading

Writing Adventures:Co-Authoring the Book
Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color
Brand Focus: Cartier
Jewellery Insights straight to your inbox