Tune in every Tuesday at 6PM ET for Be Jeweled with Bill and Connie for the best new jewelry, designers, and style ideas!
In the jewelry world Italian designers are considered some of the top masters of their craft. Dating back hundreds of years, Italian jewelry has always set the stage for trends and the best new modern design techniques. Jewelry in Italy is celebrated not just for its beauty but also for its individuality, where each piece tells a unique story of the woman who wears it. Our favorite Italian jewelry designers bring old-world European excellence to these modern accesories.
1. The Beginnings of Gold
Italy is where some of the finest gold jewelry originates so it makes sense that this is where many jewelry fashions first begin. Today goldtone jewelry is as high stylized as the actual metal so more individuals have access to very expensive-looking pieces. Delicate designs, revealing the finesse of the maker, have been prized in Italy for generations. This diamond-cut bangle bracelet by Bellezza is a classic example of fineness in its cut and beautiful simplicity. For a design that reveals its culture in a different way, the “Corno Napoletano” Italian Horn Pendant from Roberto by RFM is a traditional symbol of good luck in Italy.
2. Work With Leather
To give the look of gold a more modern touch, Italian designers may pair it with another material like leather. This intertwined bronze and leather necklace is a beautiful example of how to pair textiles with the look of gold. The contrast of delicate beauty and unpolished nature between these two elements creates a high intrigue. Done in a similar style, this infinity-design cord bracelet and matching ring are some of our other favorites.
3. Styled In Silver
Over the years, Italy has also become a major hub for well done sterling silver and silvertone jewelry. Styles can range from heavy ornamental pieces to small and sophisticated sets. Cascading link necklaces like this “Mama” pavé crystal link necklace are a stylish way to wear larger, statement pieces in silver. For a daily accessory, an interchangeable set like these convertible hoop drop earrings allows the wearer to modernize silver by playing with colored ceramics.
4. Traditional, Carved Cameos
We’ve touched on cameo carvings before but their beauty and history goes much farther. Cameos date back as far as the 3rd century BC where they were seen on ornamental vessels, structures, and jewelry. Amedeo brings this tradition to life for modern wearers with his classic shell-carved cameos like this “L’Imperatrice”cameo ring. The Italian’s cameos are influenced by ancient Greek and Roman art with traces in these amazing sculptured pieces. Softer, less traditional styles can also be done with carved cameos like this Pink Shell “Rose di Fata” Pendant with 16″ Chain and matching earrings.
What’s your favorite Italian word and why?