Ruby and Diamond Ear Hoops by Bulgari, Rome, circa 1980
Ruby and Diamond Ear Hoops by Bulgari, Rome, circa 1980
A pair of elongated ear hoops set with cabochon rubies accented with round diamonds; mounted in 18-karat gold, with assay marks
- 10 cabochon rubies
- 16 round diamonds
- Signed Bulgari
- Measurements: 1 1/2 x 1 11/16 inches
Additional cataloguing
Certification
American Gemological Laboratories, The Prestige Gemstone Report, dated September 12, 2018, stating that the natural corundum rubies are Burma in origin with no heat enhancement and minor oil enhancement.
Biography
Sotirios Bulgari established the jewelry house of Bulgari in Greece in the late nineteenth century, originally creating precious objects in silver. In 1881, he relocated to Rome and, three years later, opened his first store. By the first decade of the twentieth century, jewelry had been added to his stock. His drive and ambition was passed on to his sons and grandsons who continued to offer well designed and superbly made jewelry to their clientele. Today, Bulgari is an international luxury brand.
Significance
Considered one of the most renowned jewelry firms, Bulgari was established more than a century ago in the heart of Rome and still remains an icon for great Italian design. Utilizing the traditional metal working techniques established by legendary Renaissance workshops, Bulgari has strived to develop their own distinct modern style. By the 1960s the firm veered away from conventional Parisian jewelry design and moved towards the use of yellow gold combined with bold colored gemstones, later referred to as the “Italian school” of jewelry design.
By the 1980s Bulgari’s distinct style became a symbol of a fashionable generation and Andy Warhol stated in an interview with Nicola Bulgari, “Well, I think your jewelry is the 1980s. Everyone’s trying to copy this look.” These earrings by Bulgari, circa 1980, are a stunning example of colorful gemstones perfectly balanced with yellow gold. Designed as elongated hoops, the polished gold surfaces are encrusted with vivid red cabochon rubies spaced by diamonds. The rubies are of exceptional color and the earrings are of superb craftsmanship and bold style.
With much success and accolades, Bulgari attracted an international audience and their jewels adorned many fashionable women including Sofia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor. The company creates unique jewelry that has a great sense weight and volume, clean lines, and strong use of color. These impeccable earrings by Bulgari are wearable and beautiful and would be a strong addition to any collection.
