Known as the jeweler to the stars, Bulgari has long been synonymous with luxury and cinematic allure. The Italian luxury fashion house first captured the limelight during the Dolce Vita era of the 1950s and '60s, when the bustling streets of Rome were the backdrop to Hollywood epics like Cleopatra and Roman Holiday. Silver screen legends like Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, Ingrid Bergman, and Grace Kelly fell under the spell of Bulgari’s dazzling creations, both on and off the screen.
Today, Bulgari remains a red-carpet favorite. A-listers like Charlize Theron, Lady Gaga, Alicia Keys, and Dua Lipa regularly dazzle in Bulgari’s striking designs at events like the Oscars and Cannes. Hitting closer to home, Filipino stars like Nadine Lustre, Pia Wurtzbach, and Heart Evangelista (and her chic dog!) have also been spotted wearing Bulgari’s glamorously bold jewelry, proving that its appeal is truly universal.
But stars don’t just appear out of nowhere. Ahead, discover how Bulgari transformed from a humble Roman silversmith’s shop into a global powerhouse of high jewelry and accessories.
A Brief History of Bulgari
Founded in 1884 by Greek silversmith Sotirio Bulgari, the brand’s journey began with exquisite silver ornaments crafted for English tourists visiting Rome. Sotirio’s artistry and entrepreneurial spirit soon transformed his shop on Via Sistina into a thriving business, eventually leading to the iconic flagship store on Via Condotti.
In the 1920s, Sotirio’s sons Giorgio and Costantino shifted the focus to high jewelry, drawing inspiration from the French Art Deco style with platinum and diamond creations. By the 1940s, Bulgari embraced its Roman identity, incorporating yellow gold and bold, sculptural designs into its collections. This era also saw the birth of the Serpenti motif, a coiled serpent symbolizing wisdom and vitality, which remains one of Bulgari’s most enduring icons.
Bulgari’s Icons
The mid-20th century wasn’t just about star power—it was a period of creative reinvention for Bulgari. Moving away from the austere platinum and diamond trends of the French school, Bulgari embraced yellow gold and daring chromatic combinations that mirrored the vibrant streetscapes of Rome. The cabochon cut, with its smooth, domed shape, became a signature, showcasing gemstones in all their colorful glory.
This bold design ethos gave rise to some of Bulgari’s most iconic collections:
Bulgari Serpenti
Inspired by the snake as a symbol of wisdom and vitality, the Serpenti collection is a cornerstone of Bulgari’s identity. From its early Tubogas watches in the 1940s to its modern iterations, the coiled serpent remains an emblem of the brand’s seductive appeal.
Serpenti Viper Necklace, P10,328,000, BVLGARI, bulgari.com
Bulgari Tubogas
This innovative technique, resembling industrial gas pipes, gave Bulgari’s designs a sleek, modern edge. Revived in the 1970s, Tubogas bracelets and watches are a masterclass in elegance and ingenuity.
Serpenti Tubogas Watch, P1,235,000, BVLGARI, bulgari.com
Bvlgari Bvlgari
Launched in 1977, the Bvlgari Bvlgari collection took inspiration from ancient Roman coins and architectural motifs, blending history with cutting-edge design.
Bvlgari Bvlgari Necklace, P152,000, BVLGARI, bulgari.com
Bulgari Monete
With its coin-inspired designs, the Monete collection pays homage to Bulgari’s Roman roots, turning history into wearable art.
Monete Necklace, Price Unavailable, BVLGARI, bulgari.com
Bulgari’s Best Bags
It didn’t take long for Bulgari to expand its horizons beyond jewelry, venturing into the world of accessories like handbags—making their name even more accessible for everyday wear. Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of their best bags.
Bulgari Serpenti Forever Top Handle
The Serpenti Forever Top Handle will be your perfect accompaniment during formal gatherings. For the ultimate luxe factor, cop the handheld piece in its Himalayan version.
Serpenti Forever Top Handle, P279,000, BVLGARI, bulgari.com
Bulgari Baia Shoulder Bag
If petite purses that can rest comfortably under your arm are your thing, then the Baia is right up your alley. It gets a signature Bulgari touch with its hardware strap reminiscent of scales and snakehead enclosure.
Serpenti Baia Shoulder Bag, P156,000, BVLGARI, bulgari.com
Bulgari Roma Top Handle Bag
The Roma is an optimal option if you want something a bit more on the low-key side. No reptilian detailing in sight here, as all it boasts of is the maison's name on its metallic opening.
Roma Small Top Handle Bag, P226,000, BVLGARI, bulgari.com
Read More: The Best Bulgari Bags to Shop
Where to Shop Bulgari in the Philippines
Looking to indulge in Bulgari's luxury offerings? You can find their stunning pieces at some of the top shopping destinations in the Philippines: Solaire Resort, Greenbelt 3, and Nustar Cebu.
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