The Italian firm of Buccellati is famous for textural gold jewelry and exquisite silver objects. The main design accomplishments of the Buccellati firm span four decades: from the 1920’s to the 1960’s. The pieces are bold and instantly recognizable, with a style that references the great goldsmiths of the Renaissance. The most distinctive aspect of Buccellati pieces is the rich textural quality, Mario Buccellati was the first to introduce the technique of texture-engraving. The most renowned engraving techniques are rigato (parallel lines cut onto the surface of metal to obtain a sheen effect), telato (texture, obtained by fine cross-hatched lines, which imitates linen surface), segrinato (engraving in every possible directions, overlapping textures), ornato (decoration, based on nature forms: animals, leaves, flowers), modellato (the most delicate engraving technique, which consists of reproducing several designs chiseled in three dimensions on a minuscule scale, mainly used for the decorations of the borders). Pieces are created to look and feel like silk, damask, tulle, lace, or linen. Use of mixed metals (silver and gold, platinum and gold) is also typical. If gemstones are used at all, they are often unusual: large cabochons, carved emeralds and rubies, rose-cut diamonds.
A diamond and gold bracelet, by Buccellati
Buccellati Gold, Diamond and Beryl Ring
A bib necklace
Astounding bib necklace formed of a series of white gold star-like motifs encrusted with diamonds, laterally 'rigato' engraved, divided by 'trefilerini' decorations also set with diamonds sustaining yellow gold cups decorated with drop briolette diamonds. The front rows and back necklace in white gold are embellished with rose cut diamonds and diamonds. Yellow gold morette decorations add an additional touch of elegance to the jewel.
BUCCELLATI DIAMOND RING
A wonderful vintage Buccellati ring, embellished with their famous exquisite gold and silver work, and centering an impressive 4 carat diamond of unusual and mysterious color that echos the gold and silver tones.
The Italian firm of Buccellati is famous for textural gold jewelry and exquisite silver objects. The main design accomplishments of the Buccellati firm span four decades: from the 1920’s to the 1960’s. The pieces are bold and instantly recognizable, with a style that references the great goldsmiths of the Renaissance. The most distinctive aspect of Buccellati pieces is the rich textural quality, Mario Buccellati was the first to introduce the technique of texture-engraving. The most renowned engraving techniques are rigato (parallel lines cut onto the surface of metal to obtain a sheen effect), telato (texture, obtained by fine cross-hatched lines, which imitates linen surface), segrinato (engraving in every possible directions, overlapping textures), ornato (decoration, based on nature forms: animals, leaves, flowers), modellato (the most delicate engraving technique, which consists of reproducing several designs chiseled in three dimensions on a minuscule scale, mainly used for the decorations of the borders). Pieces are created to look and feel like silk, damask, tulle, lace, or linen. Use of mixed metals (silver and gold, platinum and gold) is also typical. If gemstones are used at all, they are often unusual: large cabochons, carved emeralds and rubies, rose-cut diamonds.
Buccellati have created this unique ring for Valentine’s day this year. It was handcrafted by the skilled artisans and craftsmen at Buccellati’s Milanese workshops using Buccellati’s unique methods developed over one hundred and fifty years ago. The ring’s centerpiece is a large heart shaped blue sapphire which is surrounded by ninety two brilliant cut diamonds set in white gold which is engraved using a special Buccellati technique.
Breathtaking necklaces, gorgeous bracelets, detailed brooches, and magnificent silverware all testify to the impassioned work of this internationally renowned jewelry house, whose treasures can today be purchased around the world. Published in conjunction with an exhibition at the Moscow State Museum, Buccellati is a worthy tribute to artists and artisans whose creations have symbolized superb taste and craftsmanship for generations.
