Francesca Randazzo

I love to bring the customer on an Italian journey, to explore one of the most ancient arts in history- the goldsmith's art. 

Italy and Italian gold have always had an aura of glamour. The country has maintained a reputation for glamour and dignity, despite its hardships. Many Italian jewellery manufacturing businesses started up in the '50s and '60s and were mostly family-run. Before you knew it, these businesses evolved into international luxury brands. Obviously, there lies some conflict between artisan production and the mass industry.

It's been 32 years since I embarked on my gold journey. For my jewellery collections, I tend to look for unknown artists that demonstrate authentic Italian expression. Merletto Di Francesca, launched in 2015, is the latest introduction. The luxury of Italian craftsmanship is uniquely captured in this range.

The collection, crafted in 9 carats, is made in Arezzo by locally based family-run factories. Craftsman use technology to achieve both delicacy and strength. It's the artistic wit and exquisite taste behind every creation that makes these pieces uniques. This unmistakable handwriting on each piece is an elegant touch. Perfect for any occasion, these gorgeous pieces transition from casual wear to a cocktail dress.

Arezzo, Tuscany is synonymous with style and excellence, thanks to its unique historical and cultural heritage. Tuscany is the birthplace of Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci. Arezzo is an ancient city and dates back to the 9th Century B.C. The medieval wall that surrounded the town has been preserved and still stands today. There are many historical and artistic attractions: from the Medici Fortress to the Cathedral, the Roman Amphitheatre...and many more. Not to mention the breathtaking famous fresco, The Legend of the True Cross, by renaissance painter Piero della Francesca from the 15th century. 

“Piazza Grande” is the beautiful ancient square that has been featured in films including the Oscar winning Life is Beautiful. Twice a year, in June and September, the square is transformed into a jousting track. Participants dress in medieval costumes, and team colours hang from every window. The region is beautifully scenic: the hills are covered with vineyards, and our splendid farmhouses are as ancient as they are precious.

In the twentieth century, Arezzo became the global capital of goldsmiths. Metalworking in Etruria dates back to the 8th century B.C. A thriving goldsmith industry has lived in the region since. Industry standards are extremely high, and artisans hold a great responsibility to the craft.

Italian craftsmanship inspires the whole world. The ‘Made in Italy’ marketing campaign started in the early post-war decades and celebrated many premium goods: art, food, tourism, design and fashion. This decades-long promotional campaign ensured that ‘Made in Italy’ became world-renowned for elegance. In the 1950s and '60s, many Hollywood films were shot in Italy. Hollywood stars like Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and Sofia Loren, draped in Bulgari diamonds, became style ambassadors for Italian fashion. So began an appetite for luxurious clothing and jewellery made in Italy. The popularity of Italian jewellery has escalated since. I believe that the international jewellery industry will continue to turn to Italy, where extensive design research continues. 

I love earrings. I never step outside my front door without them. My favourites are not the petite style but chunky ones, so you see them above my curly and voluminous hair.