Secrets Shhh Acquired by Dubai-Based Holding Group Amaar Jewels: A New Era for Lab-Grown Diamonds

The Australian fashion jewelry landscape is witnessing a historic transformation as Secrets Shhh has been officially acquired by Amaar Jewels, a prestigious private equity holding company headquartered in Dubai, UAE. The strategic agreement, announced in late January 2026, marks the end of a turbulent period for the brand, which had entered voluntary administration just weeks prior in December 2025.

Managed by the insolvency experts at FTI Consulting, the acquisition ensures the continuity of one of Australia’s most recognizable jewelry names. By transferring the brand’s assets to the Dubai-based group, the deal secures over 100 jobs and keeps the majority of retail storefronts operational. Under the new visionary leadership of Amaar Jewels, the brand is not just surviving—it is being prepared for a massive global relaunch centered on luxury and innovation.


The Strategic Shift: Leading the Lab-Grown Diamonds Revolution

The most significant takeaway from this acquisition is the planned shift in product strategy. Amaar Jewels intends to leverage its international infrastructure to pivot Secrets Shhh toward the lab-grown diamonds market. This segment, currently seeing an explosion in global demand, represents a sophisticated alternative to traditional mining, offering the same chemical and physical properties with a focus on ethical sourcing.

By integrating lab-grown diamonds into their core collections, the new owners aim to bridge the gap between “fashion jewelry” and “high-end luxury.” These stones will be meticulously set in precious metals such as 14k and 18k gold, as well as platinum. This move is strategically designed to attract the “conscious luxury” consumer—those who seek the brilliance and prestige of a diamond but prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. For the Sublime Joias reader, this marks a turning point where high-tech science meets classical Italian and Australian craftsmanship.


Dubai’s Influence and Global Expansion Plans

The involvement of a powerhouse from Dubai cannot be understated. Amaar Jewels currently manages 16 luxury boutiques across the Middle East, with a strong presence in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, and Iraq, alongside a flagship presence in Mumbai, India. By bringing Secrets Shhh into its portfolio, the group plans to inject the opulence and high-standards of the Dubai jewelry market into the Australian retail experience.

Industry analysts suggest that this “Dubai-infusion” will result in:

  • Elevated Store Experiences: Revamping physical locations to mirror the luxury boutiques of the Emirates.

  • Global Supply Chain Efficiency: Direct access to the world’s most advanced diamond laboratories and gold refineries.

  • Digital Transformation: A significant investment in e-commerce platforms to reach international collectors who are searching for affordable yet high-impact jewelry.


A Legacy Reborn: From Noosa to the World Stage

Secrets Shhh Acquired by Dubai-Based Holding Group Amaar Jewels

 

To understand the value of this acquisition, one must look at the resilient history of Secrets Shhh. Founded in 2000 in Noosa, Queensland, by Jane Meredith and Dietmar Gorlich, the brand was a pioneer in high-quality diamond simulants.

While the brand faced challenges during the 2008 global financial crisis and subsequent retail shifts, its core mission—to make luxury accessible—never wavered. Under former Michael Hill CEO Glen Parsell, the brand grew back to 25 locations by 2024. Now, with the liquidity and strategic backing of a Middle Eastern giant, the brand is finally ready to compete on a global scale, moving from zirconia-based pieces to the prestigious realm of lab-grown diamonds and solid gold.


What Should Consumers Expect?

For long-time fans of the brand, the transition will be seamless but rewarding. The new owners have committed to honoring all existing warranties and commercial policies, ensuring customer trust remains intact. However, the future collections will undoubtedly feature a higher “ticket price” as the brand moves toward more noble materials and larger-carat lab-grown diamonds.

This acquisition is a clear signal that the jewelry market is evolving. Collectors are no longer just buying “jewelry”; they are investing in stories, ethics, and architectural beauty—elements that Amaar Jewels and Secrets Shhh are now perfectly positioned to provide.

👉 As Secrets Shhh transitions into using more precious metals, understanding your gold is more important than ever. Check out our guide on 14k vs. 18k Gold: The Secret Difference You Need to Know.

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