Design directions
While VicenzaOro The Boutique Show is still quite Italian, the last few years have seen a dramatic increase in the number of exhibitors from around the world. To be precise, 30 countries are represented. With this variety comes a wide range of design directions and materials. From bronze and silver to gold and platinum, with or without diamonds, coloured gems, and enamel, there was truly something for everyone. Lacy looks have been a staple since the global economic crisis and higher metal prices, while nature-inspired pieces could be seen nearly everywhere. Coloured gemstone rings, stacked bangles, and long loopy necklaces were also among the style mix at the show, as were the ever-present gothic motifs.
Always in tune with nature, Italian jeweller Roberto Coin featured lovely garden-themed pieces in gemstones and 18-karat gold, complete with a spider or two. Misis got creative with gold-plated silver, gemstone, and enamel rings, while Dada Arrigoni turned to the dark side with gem-set 18-karat gold skulls on long chains.
Openwork or airy esthetics could be seen in pieces by Casato, while Rebecca presented fashionable leather bracelets with gold-plated bronze charms. Men were certainly not forgotten at the show, as seen in Baraka’s new collection, ‘8848,’ that “aims for the roof of the world,” according to the brand, “by celebrating the conquest of Mount Everest in 1953.” The name comes from the height of Mount Everest at 8848 m.
Designs evoking the work of artists were seen at several booths. One was a beautiful jewellery watch by Palmiero that called to mind Picasso. Another was a lovely piece created by Indian brand, Sun Jewels, made of hundreds of diamonds and sapphires that paid homage to Mondrian.
The Boutique Show was also the launching pad for a number of brands. Among them was the very creative and prolific Mokoso Atelier. With its strong brand identity, Thailand-based Mokoso offered a variety of delicate and trendsetting pieces in gold, diamonds, and gemstones. Another interesting launch was the new brand, Roma 1947, created by Better Silver. “The year 1947 was an invaluable and important year,” stated chief executive officer (CEO) Paolo Bettinardi, “because it set off the distinctive Dolce Vita phenomenon.” The choice of the name Roma 1947 was his way of honouring his grandparents, who travelled to Rome in 1947 right after the war. “We found an old photo of them with the date and place on the back: Roma 1947.”
Brazil-based Vianna Joias featured an impressive array of stylish gemstone pieces, while Philippine brand, Jewelmer Joaillerie, dazzled visitors with its selection of South Sea golden pearl jewellery and Spanish brand Magerit continued its bold depiction of horses in gold and silver.
The Boutique Show truly offered something for everyone. VicenzaOro Fall takes place Sept. 5 to 9.
A 20-year veteran of the jewellery and watch industry, Cynthia Unninayar travels the world reporting on the latest trends, promising new designers, global brands, and market conditions. Her interviews with some of the industry’s top players offer insight into what’s new and what’s happening on the global jewellery stage.
