BVLGARI (founded 1884)

The Italian house was founded in Rome in 1884 by the talented Greek silversmith Sotirio Bulgari. The brand is known for its contemporary edge, innovation in setting jewelry, and modular designs. Bulgari pieces are easily recognizable by their simplicity and modernity of form, including geometric shapes like the iconic “Parentesi.”

During the 1970s, Bulgari’s flagship store on Via Condotti embodied the Dolce Vita lifestyle. Elizabeth Taylor, one of the house’s greatest patrons, said that “undeniably one of the biggest advantages to filming Cleopatra in Rome was Bulgari’s shop.”

Bulgari's jewelry from the 1980s and 1990s was influenced by Pop art, unusual materials, bold color, and strong, contemporary trends. Bulgari was also one of the first high- jewelry houses to build real brand recognition.