The Damiani Group is celebrating a century of business that began with a dream that Enrico Grassi Damiani had and that one day came true
by Priscilla Baldesi
Enrico Grassi Damiani was a master goldsmith who made a name for himself in the small circle of people who mattered at the time, thanks to his skill, good taste and innate ability to create precious and exclusive jewellery. His love for precious jewellery and his passion for his work were so strong that they were passed on to his three children, Guido, Silvia and Giorgio, who were brought up in this sparkling world that they’ve known since they were very young. An experience that has undoubtedly made them even better guardians and interpreters of the wonderful legacy that their loved ones have left them: three different personalities, three talents that are just as different.
Brothers Guido, Silvia and Giorgio Damiani, are portrayed on the occasion of the gala evening dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Maison. The exclusive event took place on 14 March at the Teatro Alcione in Milan. For the occasion, Mrs Damiani wore the Mimosa The Duchess Collar Dama Rosa: a striking and graceful necklace in pink gold, entirely paved with colourless diamonds and pink sapphires framing an oval-cut rubellite of over 30 carats. Chosen by Silvia Damiani for the energy of the stone and its vibrant pink colour, this piece of royal elegance was the perfect choice for such an important day!
Mimosa’s most sublime expression is the Eternal Blue white gold necklace, a magnificent piece of jewellery, an example of the highest craftsmanship, which, in the embrace of its diamonds, masterfully enhances the extraordinary nature of its protagonist: a giant cushion cut sapphire weighing over 100 carats! A gift of nature from faraway Sri Lanka, a unique creation that is as beautiful as it is strong and versatile: the pendant can also be worn as a light pendant on a simpler white gold chain or, alternatively, as a brooch. The necklace can also be ‘unhooked’ from the pendant and worn as a seductive star on a special occasion.
Damiani’s jewels
On the occasion of its 100th anniversary, the Damiani family has decided to share 100 symbolic masterpieces with the world: Damiani 100 X 100 Italiani, a magnificent exhibition designed to celebrate this historic achievement, achieved in full respect of the most authentic and precious Italianess. This is precisely the narrative theme of the exhibition, which is conveyed through pieces that enhance the value of all the brand’s creativity and manufacturing skills, without ever neglecting the soul, artistic flair, good taste and research that lie behind the very existence of each creation. Silvia Damiani admits, with the passion that characterises her, that “…nature gives us precious stones. Skilful hands transform them into creations that people know how to appreciate and love. History tells us that people have always adorned themselves with gemstones and amulets, but they have never been chosen for their beauty or value alone, but rather for the positive vibrations they emit. Instinct leads us to choose what suits us best”. So perhaps jewels evoke a kind of empathy in us, not just because of the gems they contain, but also because of the energy they contain. Energy and beauty do not leave anyone indifferent and reach those who have the privilege of admiring and touching these pieces.
The Margherita Desert Garden necklace is the essence of the Margherita collection. The extremely rare deep brown fancy yellow drop-cut diamond of an impressive carat – over 20 carats – is the synthesis of so much beauty.
Damiani 100 X 100 Italiani is no doubt an extraordinary opportunity to experience these sensations: it is a travelling exhibition which, after the inaugural show at Gallerie d’Italia in Milan, moved to Korea to then reach Japan, China and the Middle East. “What sets us apart – as Guido Damiani says – is the deep bond between us, made of love, devotion and immense commitment. We grew up among diamonds, gold and jewellery, playing in the company’s offices as children – a company that is part of our DNA”.
The Damiani Green Treasure of Muzo is an exquisite white gold necklace set with diamonds and emeralds, and complemented by a pendant described by the Maison itself as “an authentic miracle of nature”: a majestic emerald from Muzo, the ancient Colombian city. It is an extremely rare gem weighing almost 64 carats, made even more exceptional by its intense green colour – fascinating legends place it at the centre of ancient tales of strength and power.
It is no coincidence that Damiani holds the record of 18 Diamond International Awards, the prestigious international jewellery Oscars: the first recognition came in 1976 with the Squalo bracelet. Giorgio Damiani tells us with great pride: “It is a masterpiece of inestimable value and, for me, the one I love the most. Our mother Gabriella designed it and today it is part of our family collection”.
Opening photo by Daniele Venturelli
(Damiani – Our first 100 years – Barchemagazine.com – September 2024)
