The art of jewelry making goes back to ancient times on this island. Back in those days, metalworking equipment and specialized workshops were seen in nearly every single household. The main income of the people within this island was jewelry making.

Photo: Rashu.mv/ Mifzal

Photo: Rashu.mv/ Mifzal

Even now, there are several jewelry makers within the island of Rinbudhoo. Moosa Abdullah (Amir) is one of the most well-known goldsmiths on the island. Amir's father Abdullah taught him the art of jewelry making at the young age of 14. Abdullah was one of the most skilled jewelry makers on the island at that time.

Photo: Rashu.mv/ Mifzal

While Amir can count 35 years of work under his belt, the techniques applied have remained largely unchanged through the years. As such, he still uses the older tools, specially prepared on-location in Rinbudhoo. These tools include the Kirumbu, Girumba and Thaiy Gandu. 

Photo: Rashu.mv/ Mifzal

Photo: Rashu.mv/ Mifzal

Amir's main source of income is the jewelry making business. He noted that while some of the work is available within Rinbudhoo and nearby islands, the majority of demand for Amir's work comes from the capital city Male'. Amir estimated that he would have worked on about five Fattaru bai (traditional golden coin necklaces) within a month and that he also works on rings and necklaces. 

Photo: Rashu.mv/ Mifzal

The talent, skill and beautiful metalwork and jewellery making from. Rinbudhoo is well known throughout Maldives. It is well worth a visit to the island just to see this work in action.