Saudi Bank Launches Jewellery Training With Italian Craft School

A new training initiative in Asir is inviting Saudi artisans to hone their skills in gold and copper leaf jewellery-making through a partnership with Italy’s Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School.

The programme, launched on August 1st by the Saudi Social Development Bank, is designed to combine local craft traditions with international expertise. Drawing inspiration from Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, a form of heritage art from the region recognised by UNESCO, the course offers instruction in techniques tailored to current market tastes.

The partnership was formally marked with a cooperation agreement signed between the bank and the Florence-based school, which is known for its experimental approach to contemporary jewellery.

Participants, including freelance designers and artisans, are learning to develop high-quality pieces that reflect both personal creativity and regional aesthetics. Since the larger training scheme began in 2023, more than 300 people have taken part in 15 different programmes.

Of those, a significant number have turned their designs into products - some even securing funding to expand their businesses. According to bank figures, about 30% of previous trainees have received financing, and over 150 cottage industry families have expanded operations after participating.