The world of jewelry is larger and more serious than the banal shine of precious stones, the alluring shine of gold and tens of thousands of dollars for “this trinket?” Jewelry brands are true mastodons in the fashion industry. The history of a good half of them goes back hundreds of years. Therefore, the unique history, aura and handwriting of the best craftsmen are guessed at the first glance at a pretentious ring or a modest pendant. Trendy-U will tell you the main and most interesting things about the first of the world's first luxury jewelry!
French jewelry brands
1. Cartier
Year of foundation: 1847
French Cartier jewelry is synonymous with luxury and chic. Consider the fact that throughout the twentieth century, their crowns were worn by representatives of royal families throughout Europe! The precious panther on accessories has turned into a real talisman and symbol of success for French craftsmen. The brand's iconic masterpieces are the 1888 women's bracelet watch and Trinity ring. In addition to the classic set of jewelry, Cartier also creates pens and lighters. Cartier is also considered the inventor of clip-on earrings without a clasp.
Rose gold in a triple ring symbolizes love, yellow – fidelity, and white – friendship
2. Boucheron
Year of foundation: 1858
The company's strength lies in its ability to turn extravagant and bold decisions into beloved classics. Recognizable symbols of Boucheron are jewelry in the form of a snake, a ring with a chameleon, and ivy branches. The brand's signature is manifested in the use of colored precious stones, Oriental motifs, flowers and wild animals, and feathers. The basis of the concept is extravagance, scope and courage in decisions. Boucheron was the first to release watches with an interchangeable strap.
In 2004, another symbol of the brand appeared - the Quatre ring made of pink, white, yellow gold and ceramics, which instantly became iconic. And decorations from the Animaux collection in the form of animals have become mascots for thousands of girls.
Ivy leaves are a favorite motif for inspiration in Boucheron creations
3. Van Cleef & Arpels
Year of foundation: 1896
The brand's calling card is motifs of flora and fauna, fairy-tale characters. Van Cleef & Arpels were pioneers in many ways. They were the first to introduce a bracelet watch with a hidden dial. Also, the world was once surprised by a zipper necklace, which, once fastened, is worn like a bracelet. And you can’t take your eyes off the shining Van Cleef & Arpels Ballerina and Fairy diamond brooches in the form of dancing ballerinas and fairies! One of the most recognizable and at the same time copied luxury jewelry in the world is the legendary Alhambra necklace with a quatrefoil.
The legendary Alhambra necklace is named after the palace of the Muslim Nasrid dynasty
Caring for your jewelry
Caring for such products does not require special care. A wooden box is best suited for storing such things, and each element must be hidden separately in a plastic or fabric bag. Chains and bracelets are stored straightened so that none of the joints are crooked.
After removing the jewelry, wipe it with a piece of flannel cloth. Well, in order to avoid troubles, it is better not to wear jewelry during physical work; Italian gold is softer than domestic gold and therefore may not withstand stress.
Jewelry from abroad does not tolerate all kinds of chemicals, and they must be cleaned with soapy water. But if there are a lot of such jewelry, or they are expensive, then it would be better to purchase special equipment for caring for precious items.
Italian jewelry brands
4. BVLGARI
Year of foundation: 1884
A company called Bulgari was founded by the Greek Sotirios Bulgari, who eventually moved to Italy. In 1977, the Latin letter V appeared instead of U, as a symbol of the brand's roots. BVLGARI is the embodiment of flashy chic and prestige. One of the most recognizable pieces of jewelry is a wide ring with an engraved logo on the rim. A landmark collection was the Bulgari Serpenti Collection, which combines gold and platinum metal flakes.
The distinctive features of BVLGARI are the spirit of the Italian Renaissance, geometric motifs, Roman classicism, avant-garde and the use of multi-colored stones.
The influence of the Italian and Greek jewelry schools is clearly visible in the brand’s jewelry.
Read: How to wear jewelry correctly
Fashionable clothes autumn-winter 2021
Fashionable jewelry autumn-winter 2021
5. Gucci
Year of foundation: 1921
Gucci jewelry is the embodiment of elegance, luxury and at the same time casual philosophy. The first jewelry collection was released in the early 70s, and in the 90s Tom Ford gave the Gucci jewelry line a new life. The company's craftsmen play with precious stones and metals to create stylish accessories. They are expressive and original, and at the same time loved for their restraint and elegance. The iconic collections are minimalistic bamboo, stylish military and complex safari.
The products have a daring spirit, but they also perfectly complement elegant looks.
You can buy Gucci jewelry here
6. Bucelatti
Year of foundation: 1919
The brand was founded in Milan, and by the middle of the twentieth century it became known in America. In 2001, the company introduced jewelry watches to the world. Bucelatti was one of the first to present a series of jewelry cases for iPhone and iPad using yellow gold and diamonds. The company also produces silverware. The brand's masterpieces are recognizable due to the characteristic precious lace, the combination of geometry with smooth lines, and the characteristic metal texture reminiscent of expensive linen.
Bucelatti jewelry is recognizable thanks to metals with a special texture, similar to the surface of silk, linen or lace
7. DAMIANI
Year of foundation: 1924
All jewelry from the Valenza-based brand is created by hand, from the sketches to the polishing process. Therefore, their creations are admired not just by wealthy people, but by members of royal families. Damiani jewelry most often features classic round-cut diamonds. A new technique for cutting diamonds - lunette, which enhances radiance, was also credited. Damiani engagement jewelry has become a successful duet of classics and avant-garde, and Queen is the signature ring of the jewelry house. Prices for the brand's silver creations start from €400, and the cost of masterpieces from the exclusive Masterpieces
starts from €10 thousand euros.
The company received 18 awards at the Diamonds International Awards
What makes Italian gold different?
Italian gold jewelry can almost always be distinguished by color from products from other countries. Gold from the Apennine Peninsula does not have a reddish tint, and if the seller assures that reddish gold was brought from there, feel free to refuse the purchase, they are trying to sell you a fake.
The appearance of the product can also say a lot: if a chain, pendant, ring or other product looks light, sophisticated and openwork, then this is the signature style of the Italian master; reviews of such products are always excellent.
Italian gold is processed using a special technology that has been kept secret for several generations of jewelers. The technology of making gold products is carefully protected by Italian jewelry families, who pass it on to the younger generation in the process of learning.
There is also the concept of sample, which demonstrates the amount of metal in a solid alloy with other components. Gold of any standard in Italy is produced using a unique technology that is not repeated in any jewelry house.
High-quality Italian gold must certainly be polished, which is another indicator of the quality of the jewelry and determines its appearance in the photo. Attention to detail is one of the main advantages of Italian products made from precious metals; this trait has also been adopted by costume jewelry, which is quite easily confused with real jewelry.
Italian jewelers most often use 585 and 750 gold, which are painted in different shades. But more often, 750-carat gold is always used, from which most jewelry collections are made. However, some masters even produce jewelry collections only from 585 gold.
American jewelry brands
8. Harry Winston
Year of foundation: 1932
The brand is a favorite of celebrities for the red carpets of film festivals. American jeweler Harry Winston created a company adored by the world's elite for its sophisticated designs that celebrate luxury. A recognizable feature is marquise-cut stones, round and pear-shaped diamonds, as if collected in a precious bouquet. In 1940, Winston introduced the innovative cluster setting, where diamonds are set at different levels, which enhances their brilliance. Harry Winston watches are also a significant category in the history of the brand. There are exclusive models with rich decor, and everyday options.
Harry Winston was nicknamed the “King of Diamonds” in the jewelry world for his love of exceptional gems.
9. Tiffani & Co
Year of foundation: 1837
A turquoise-colored box containing the world's most coveted engagement ring makes the hearts of girls around the world flutter with delight. The recognizable piece of jewelry with a diamond set with six prongs appeared in 1886. And after the release of the cult film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” with Audrey Hepburn, Tiffani & Co gained even greater fame.
The brand's iconic collections: Tiffani T with open accessories, Return to Tiffani with a signature heart pendant and Tiffani Keys in the form of precious keys.
It was Tiffani craftsmen who created jewelry for the film “The Great Gatsby”
How to distinguish such metal from a fake?
Italy occupies one of the leading positions in the ranking of the largest suppliers of gold jewelry. This area brings huge income to the country, but it should be noted that the popularity of Italian metal also has another, negative side - it has begun to be counterfeited in other countries.
Moreover, some accessories are so similar to the original that it is very difficult to distinguish them with the naked eye. Therefore, in order not to stumble upon such a fake, you need to know some nuances and be able to pay attention to them.
Every year, it becomes more and more difficult to distinguish counterfeit jewelry, as scammers become more inventive and create new ways of making accessories that closely resemble Italian gold. But still, despite all attempts, jewelers from other countries failed to reveal the exact technology.
When purchasing jewelry made from such material, you need to remember that real jewelry must have certificates. If the jewelry store cannot provide this document, then most likely this item is a fake, which may not be made of gold at all.
Moreover, when choosing such jewelry, you need to pay attention not only to the documents, but also to the item itself. The sample must be indicated on the product. You need to know that 95% of products made from this metal made in Italy are 750 standard. Another value indicates that the product may be a fake, although in 5% of cases the products are made from 585 standard.
Also, on the decoration itself there must be not only a sample, but also a marking that indicates the manufacturer’s code. This information must be taken into account so as not to run into a fake. It is safest to buy Italian jewelry in Italy itself or in large jewelry stores.
Spanish jewelry brands
10. Carrera y Carrera
Year of foundation: 1885
The company's history began as a family business. Now, Carrera y Carrera accessories are recognized by their large-scale scale, eye-catching shades, pronounced symbolism of flora and fauna, exotic motifs, glorification of the beauty of soft lines and silhouettes, interest in Eastern philosophy and sculptural products. The early Las Manos (“Hands”) and the modern Jardín de Rosas (“Garden of Roses”) are collections that reflect the spirit of the brand. Carrera jewelry resembles mini-sculptures and deserves to be called high art.
The brand's jewelry is filled with expression and rich colors
11. Tous
Year of foundation: 1920
The Spanish brand began its history with watch repairs, but in 1965 Tous declared itself as a jewelry manufacturer. The brand's corporate symbol, a bear, was born in 1985. It symbolizes pleasant childhood memories. The brand's jewelry is characterized by lightness, smooth lines, and bright gems reminiscent of candy canes.
Even in cocktail rings or statement necklaces there is no pomp or excessive pretentiousness. That’s why you can read youthful enthusiasm and sparkling mood in them. The calling card of Tous is collections for family holidays, couple jewelry, talismans for lovers.
Tous love creating light and cheerful accessories
Naples: Rossella catapano
Rossella Catapano isn't the kind of designer who takes herself too seriously (follow her!) Her signature line, Rossella Catapano, features pendants, earrings and tiaras in gold leaf and vibrant enamel. Rainbow, clover, stars - her products are ironic, light and made in Italy. I'm excited about tiaras that will make a lasting impression at a wedding.
Swiss jewelry brands
12. Chopard
Year of foundation: 1860
The company was originally engaged in the production of watches. But during the existence of the brand, the masters have made collections in almost all possible styles: from retro to ultra-modern motifs, from minimalism to shocking animalistic images. This is the main trump card and advantage of Chopard, which is loved for its diversity. Happy Diamonds is one of the most successful recent collections, where precious stones move freely under glass.
The company has tried its hand in all possible styles
13. de Grisogono
Year of foundation: 1993
The founder of one of the most shocking companies in the jewelry world, Fawaz Gruosi, has a passion for colored stones, and in particular for black diamonds. Interestingly, Gruosi spent his childhood in Florence, where he received his jewelry education. He was a representative for Harry Winston and Bvlgary, and by the age of 40 he decided to create his own company.
You can recognize the jewelry by cocktail motifs in rings with large gems, avant-garde shapes, pomp and futuristic ideas. In de Grisogono, maximalism and luxury are glorified. The accessories include dozens of carats, clusters of precious stones and a lot of color. They are created for women who “are not afraid to take risks, not afraid to wear what no one else is wearing, not afraid to be the first.”
Fawaz Gruosi was one of the first to rely on black diamonds in jewelry
Florence: Angela Caputi, Fratelli Piccini and Carolina Bucci
Angela Caputi , known in Florence as Giju, has been creating incredible collections of costume jewelry for 40 years. Whether it's a crocodile brooch or a hair clip, Angela Caputi's jewelry is always catchy and eye-catching, instantly creating a positive mood. My choice is a classic chain bralet made of bright plastic.
For jewelry in a more traditional style, it is worth going to Ponte Vecchio (in the Middle Ages there was a fish market here, which, by decree of the Medici, was turned into a stronghold of jewelers, for which all Florentines are still grateful to the famous family). - a jewelry store with a name and centuries-old history. You should come here for an engraved pendant, which is given as a gift for the birth of a child.
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