Through March 4th, it’s Carnivale in Venice. The ancient streets are filled with music and dancing. The canals are thronged with masked revelers dressed in period costumes. The entire city celebrates! When I think of Carnivale, I think of a swirl of vibrant colors, peacock plumed masks, and… dazzling intaglio jewelry.
However, stunning intaglio jewelry isn’t just for the lucky few celebrating Carnivale! In the recent article “4 Spring Jewelry Trends We Can’t Stop Thinking About” at Veranda magazine, style editors have highlighted intaglio jewelry as a top spring jewelry trend, “here are the jewelry trends we’re most excited to see this spring and beyond …To add to the individuality of these pieces, jewelry designers have put a modern twist on this long-held jewelry tradition—rings that reverse to show a different design under the cameo, intaglios that are sent into a sleek bangle, and earrings featuring a Greek beauty depicted in yellow gold rather than stone.”
My personal connection to intaglio pieces runs deep. One of my most vivid memories from childhood is playing with my parents’ jewelry. They each had a jewelry box that held a treasure trove of riches. My mother’s ropes of pearls and dangly jet earrings were the definition of glamour itself. But, my father (a first generation Italian-American) had a vast cufflink collection that was a close rival. My favorite pair? Sleek, black intaglio images of horses.
What is an Intaglio?
In printmaking, intaglio is the process by which an image is created by cutting, carving or engraving into a flat surface. In jewelry making, the technique is the same, only the medium is a gemstone, shell or glass.
Although intaglios have been created from carved stone for thousands of years (earliest examples actually date from 5000 BC), the look reached its zenith during Victorian times. Glass intaglios became more affordable due to improved production methods. Suddenly, these exquisite pieces were not only available for the ultra-wealthy.
And, according to Extasia (purveyors of fine jewelry), “Queen Victoria may also get the lion’s share of credit… she had a series of charms designed and produced to give as gifts to her extended family and circle of friends every New Year.”
And intaglio jewelry has never really gone out of style since.
Intaglio Jewelry Today
From Elizabeth Locke to the absolute, utter genius that is Sevan Biçakçi, (if you aren’t familiar, look him up right now) there are some truly gorgeous designs available today.
But, if you aren’t willing to sell your car in order to buy a new bauble, I’ve found some “steals” at a fraction of the price.
First, the glass intaglio ring, pictured above in vibrant green, is crafted of 24kt gold plate over sterling silver. This elegant intaglio artfully depicts a charming honey bee – it’s a sweet reminder that spring is on its way. And it’s so affordable! Retail: $36.90
Next, the pendant shown pictures the beauty of Aphrodite, Goddess of Love in gleaming 24K Gold plated 925 sterling silver. This mini portrait is accented with a cubic zirconia and a beautiful swirling frame design. (Chain is not included.) Retail: $32.90
Finally, if you are ready to splash out just a bit, the Italian cultured pearl and blue Venetian glass intaglio drop earrings, shown, are crafted of 18K gold over sterling silver. Made in Italy, these stunners from Ross Simons personify the ancient craft and feature cultured freshwater pearl drops. Perfect for a glam evening out! Retail: $329
Intaglio pendants, earrings, rings… there are so many options. Gazing at their historical imagery, delicate scrollwork and luminous colors, it’s almost like a trip to Venice.
Now, where did I park that gondola…
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