Italy's Greatest Jeweler
Bulgari Jewelry (Bvlgari) had humble origins. Its founder, Soutirios, came from a tiny Greek village near the Albanian border. The son of a family of silversmiths, Soutirios was more ambitious than his predecessors. When he began his business, this area was still ruled by the Ottomans, and the area was marred by fighting and marauding bandits.


Bulgari Signature 18k White Gold and Diamond Bracelet
18kt white gold concentric circle shield-design bangle bracelet, set with pavé diamonds and engraved with double Bvlgari logo. Size small. Alternate model number BR852458. Bvlgari Cerchi Diamond 18kt White Gold Small Bracelet

When the Russians and the Turks went to war in the Balkans and the silver trade collapsed, Soutirios decided to leave. He opened a shop in Naples, but became disillusioned after it was robbed. This time Soutirios decided to head for Rome. He worked extremely long hours designing and making his silver jewelry. Later he became successful enough to open a store in Rome in 1905 with his two sons, Constantino and Giorgio. This is still their flagship store. He called it The Old Curiosity Shop after Dickens' famous novel.


Rose Gold Cabochon Ring
18kt rose gold ring with the satin-finish of the external surface contrasting with the polished lateral cuts. Bulgari (Bvlgari) logo is engraved on the internal part of the shank.

Bulgari's jewelry soon became famous and movie stars, such as Mary Pickford, Princess Grace, and Audrey Hepburn wore his jewelry. Richard Burton gave Elizabeth Taylor a Bulgari ring during the filming of Cleopatra. Burton is said to have remarked: "I introduced her to beer, and she introduced me to Bulgari."

More recently, Keira Knightly, the star of Pride and Prejudice, wore a spectacular, vintage Bulgari necklace to the Oscars with a Vera Wang dress.


Keira Knightly Wearing Bulgari
78th Annual Academy Awards

In the 1970's the jewelers opened many international stores in such cities as New York, Paris, and Geneva. The company is noted for many innovations in jewelry, which include combining unusual materials, using materials not usually associated with jewelry, such as steel and white porcelain, creating stunning jewelry for everyday wear, and using Italian architectural themes.

Today the firm is run by Paolo and Nicola Bulgari, descendents of Soutirios. The company is still famous for its stunning jewelry and watches. It also has many other lines, including scarves, bags, eyewear, and even luxury hotels where any piece of Bulgari jewelry can be ordered from room service!

SOURCE
Bejeweled by Bulgari