The History & Heritage of Bvlgari Jewellery

When it comes to quality jewellery with exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs, there’s no brand better than Bvlgari. The brand is over 137 years old and has a rich history of success and growth. Join us as we explore the legacy of this luxury brand, from 1884 and beyond.

Humble Beginnings

Bvlgari was founded by the Greek silversmith, Sotirios Voulgaris. His family has a long list of creating silver goods but instead of remaining in Greece to fulfil his place as a silversmith, he immigrated to Italy in 1880 from Greece with very little in his pocket but with big dreams. He started in Naples, but then migrated to Rome in 1881.

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The Official Store Opening

The store opened in Rome in 1884 and was named ‘Bulgari’ the phonetic pronunciation of the owner’s surname. The store started strictly selling silver jewellery. However, its popularity was based on Sotirios’s pieces that were inspired by ancient Roman architecture, mosaics, and coins.

The First Flagship Store

The next store to open was in 1905 with his sons, Constantino and Giorgio. This store was located in the prestigious area of Via dei Condotti street (leading up to the Spanish steps). With true passion and professionalism, Sotirios tried to popularize his brand all around the country. The prime address was meant to appeal to well-heeled British and American tourists visiting Rome. The Bulgari store quickly built its reputation for luxurious, exceptionally well-crafted Greek and Roman-inspired jewellery designs.

Expanding To Other Luxury Accessories

Once the house became more successful, the company introduced bags, accessories, perfumes, and other kinds of luxury jewellery. In 1992 the brand launched its first fragrance called ‘Eau Parfumée au Thé Vert’. Perfumes for both women and men are another one of the company’s jewels. 

The Death of Sotiris

Sotiris passed away in 1932, leaving his business to his sons. Fortunately, Constantino and Giorgio Bulgari had the same aspirations as their father and continued his legacy with even better designs.

The Birth of BVLGARI

Although the store was originally dubbed ‘Bulgari’, in 1934 they decided to change the title to be displayed in classical Latin alphabet as ‘BVLGARI’. This is for stylistic purposes and pays homage to the founder’s Greek background and birth surname ‘Voulgaris’.

The Effects of World War II On The Business

World War II soon broke out which limited their access to certain materials. Luckily, Constantino and Giorgio had the same ambition as their father and pushed the envelope even further. The sons then decided to use yellow gold and became more creative with what they had. During this time, the Serpenti bracelet-watches were invented. 

A Splash of Colour

By the mid-1950’s, Bvlgari took it a step further by incorporating vibrant chromatic combinations of precious gemstones in rich colours. Of course, these incredible materials and designs became popular, very quickly. Soon after, Bvlgari was known as the ‘masters of coloured gemstones’. 

The Jewellers of The Stars

Bvlgari’s popularity soon became worldwide. In fact, Bvlgari jewellery even featured on the silver screens as A-list celebrities like Sofia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor, Anita Ekberg, Gina Lollobrigida, Ingrid Bergman, Naomi Campbell and Jessica Chastain who developed a taste for Bvlgari jewellery. In the 50’s and 60’s, dolce vita was everything and at the time, there was nothing more glamorous than Bvlgari jewellery.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Fervour For Bvlgari Jewellery

The house continued to enjoy an affair with stars of the silver screen, even playing a supporting role in films like Casino and American Gigolo. But no celebrity, or civilian for that matter, can rival Elizabeth Taylor in her fervour for Bulgari. 

When she was filming ‘Cleopatra’ outside Rome in 1962, Elizabeth Taylor quite literally became obsessed with Bvlgari. One of the most famous jewels from the period was the magnificent emerald and diamond necklace, gifted to her by Richard Burton, with whom she had an affair at the time. Apparently, Mr Burton remarked of his 1963 visit to the flagship store in Via dei Condotti street to buy Elizabeth Taylor a ring: “I introduced her to beer, and she introduced me to Bvlgari.”

More Internation Growth

The brand was rapidly expanding; the first international Bvlgari’s stores were founded in 1970 in New York, Paris, Geneva, and Monte Carlo. Bvlgari entered the world of luxury watchmaking. The Bvlgari Time Company was founded in Switzerland’s capital in 1980. Eventually, the brand has perfected the art of watchmaking and is now known as world-class watchmakers in addition to their other successes.

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Bvlgari Hotels

In 2001, Bvlgari branched into the hospitality business and opened an international chain of luxury hotels in cosmopolitan cities and select resorts destinations.

The luxury hotels boast a timeless glamour with gorgeous Bvlgari jewellery designs in every hotel. What’s more, these world-class hotels feature, grand suites, spas, movie screening rooms and even Michelin-rated restaurants.

Where To Find Bvlgari Jewellery Today

Bvlgari’s success has only grown over the years by producing exquisite accessories - whether it be Bvlgari jewellery, watches, sunglasses, handbags, perfume or any other luxury goods. If you’re looking for authentic Bvlgari jewellery, sunglasses, bags, and belts - then look no further. Luxity has a stunning selection of Bvlgari accessories today. Browse our online shop now.