Style Setters: The Jewelry Brief Interviews Paolo Costagli

For years I have coveted the jewels of Paolo Costagli. The unique and enticing color combinations and crisp designs are absolutely eye-catching.

Born and raised in Florence, Italy, Paolo credits his childhood surroundings for much of his creative inspiration. Indeed, the beauty of the countryside, the history, art and architecture, found only in Italy, are evident in his designs. There is also an “old school” element to his production in which he carefully selects all of the gemstones used in his designs. Paolo speaks proudly of how the stones are set and each mounting is finished for comfort and beauty, not just on the front of the piece, but on the back as well. Each piece is a contemporary heirloom.

Paolo Costagli transitions flawlessly between the world of a Renaissance craftsman and the one that moves at the speed of Twitter. That too is perhaps a credit to his Florentine up bringing, in a place where people daily walk pst works by Brunelleschi and Ghiberti talking on iPhones. Paolo has a wonderful website and an informative blog where he writes about his life and craft, but also imparts his knowledge on buying a gemstone, cleaning jewelry or what to do if you are just a guy trying to buy a special gift. Paolo now lives and works in New York City where he has a Fifth Avenue salon.

 

Your native city of Florence is a main source of your inspiration, as it has been for artists for centuries. What is it about Florence that nurtures such creativity?

PC: Florence has inspired many artists including myself because of the wealth of history, culture, architecture and design. The city gave birth to the Renaissance and revolutionized Western culture. It is a place that provides endless inspiration to create works of art. Personally, Florence means a lot to me because it’s my home. I find inspiration for shapes and color combinations, like those found in the Giardini Dell’Iris (Iris Garden in Florence) that my mother and I used to visit, which I’ve used in my Florentine Collection.

Who has had the greatest influence in your career?

PC: The French jewelers from the Art Deco to the 1950′s periods, which epitomizes the highest standard of quality, innovation and design.

 

There is a great emphasis on color in your pieces. Explain how color fits into your creative process.

PC: As a certified gemologist, I take the entire process from sourcing the gemstones to production seriously. I believe everyone can design with only diamonds, but what I like to create are jewels that are unique through the careful selection of sophisticated color combinations.

The color of gemstones and precious metals are both the base and foundation of creating my collections and jewels. I first choose the colored stones and metal, then examine various color combinations to create a timeless and classic jewel. My jewels are supposed to be worn by many ages for different occasions with the goal of having the jewels stay in a family for generations.

 

The Organics Collection is stunning and somewhat different than your other work. Is this a new direction? Do you have a green philosophy?

PC: I would not necessarily say I’m going in a new direction with the Organics Collection, but rather, I am always striving to creatively expand with new materials and designs.

 

Your attention to every detail from design and craftsmanship to packaging is very old school, I love it, yet your website and blog are very hip, fast and modern. How do you combine the two worlds so seamlessly?

PC: The heart of my brand is based on high quality, true craftsmanship, innovation and timeless design. We are very traditional in our communication to clients, but I believe in the importance of also communicating through the web, new technologies and social media. Our clients want to be kept informed; and the web and blog is the immediate method to do so.

 

For more information or to purchase jewelry by Paolo Costagli please visit www.paolocostagli.com or 711 Fifth Avenue in New York City.

 

DeLatori Jewelers Launches Lockets For A Cause

Instead of just holding a cause near to your heart, why not wear it? DeLatori jewelers has created “Lockets for a Cause” with that thought in mind. The beautiful lockets are made in their signature filigree style, but include the modern trend of a charity ribbon safely inside next to a spot for your special photo. What could be more sentimental?

“Lockets for a Cause” is the result of a collaboration between DeLatori founders Ori Zemer, Tal Zemer and Marilyn Harrell whose motto is “Beauty Transcending Time”. The lockets are detailed 18-karat gold-plated over sterling silver, featuring a colored enamel ribbon on the interior. A portion of all proceeds will benefit causes including breast cancer awareness, heart disease research and supporting our troops.

DeLatori will also work closely with individual retailers to tie-in local charities and events to the collection. We love that!