With a brand new collection of gold jewellery, Bulgari has given a twist to one of its most recognisable motifs. Since the mid-1950s, the Roman house has been blazing trails with cabochon-cut gemstones. An iconic shape that highlights the vibrant colour of precious and semi-precious stones.
Now, seven decades later, Bulgari returns to this signature design with new sculpted rings and pendants. They take their inspiration from the polished curves of cabochon-cut gemstones.
With its shiny, domed appearance, the gentle curves of a cabochon evoke the famous domes that adorn the Roman skyline. Such as the Pantheon, the Basilica of St. Peter's - designed by Michelangelo himself -, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Church of Santa Maria di Loreto.
The same cut can be used to highlight a range of colourful gemstones. Such as emeralds, rubies and sapphires, which Bulgari is known for.
The lustrous smooth finish also highlights the constellation-like constellation in sapphires and accentuates the natural colour and iridescence of other stones. Such as opals and emeralds, which can be fragile if cut in more elaborate ways.
Many of Bulgari's most famous pieces of jewellery were cabochons. Elizabeth Taylor, for example, was gifted a stunning 50-carat sapphire and diamond sabayon with cabochons by her lover - and twice-husband - Richard Burton.
Forged in rose or yellow gold, Bulgari's new Cabochon designs mimic the naturally sensual shape of the cabochon's cut and casing. The rings feature two curved cuts below the dome. Like a gemstone cut to fit a frame.
Meanwhile, the pendants interpret the striking silhouette of a double cabochon. Like two drops of molten gold meeting in the middle. Pleasingly voluminous, the pieces are designed to be worn daily. Either on their own or paired with other designs to make a bigger statement.
Source: somethingaboutrocks.com