Lajaward Jewelry

Masooda Sherdil Kohistani established Lajaward Jewelry in 2015. Three females work alongside Masooda, and she aims to hire more women with a strong desire to give them the same opportunity as herself. New recruits are taught rigorous training and production methods based on international standards plus with over 200 designs, many featuring Lapis Lazuli gemstones naturally abundant in Afghanistan, Masooda is garnering praise from Afghan organizations and others abroad.

Masooda first trains employees in depth before having them produce any pieces. Jewelry making is quite a complex process: first, jewelers melt precious metals like platinum and form them into molds using special tools. Next, they begin cutting gemstones like Lapis into proper shapes and sizes. Then, handling a jeweler’s torch used for soldering, they control the finer points of jewelry production. Finally, they inspect each piece to ensure consistent quality before the piece undergoes a multi-step polishing process.

With so much time and care put into every detail, Lajaward Jewelry presents spectacular pieces of wearable artwork. Masooda is optimistic about partnering with Aseel. Considering these incredible handmade Afghan products are rarely accessible to mainstream international markets, Aseel helps promote this women-owned and operated business hoping to help them gain international recognition.