Local clients of Underwood Jewelers had an opportunity to meet Italian jewelry designer Marco Bicego on Tuesday, April 21, when he made a personal appearance at the Ponte Vedra Beach store, bringing with him many of his iconic pieces as well as some dazzling unique creations.
Bicego is known for his proprietary technique, which involves spiraling an ultra-fine 18K gold strand around a golden core, creating a soft, wavy, graceful cord or band that resembles silk in its texture.
Colorful, sparkling gems complete many of the pieces, though the gold is at the heart of each creation. This is significant as Bicego is from Vicenza, which is known for the precious, yellow metal. In fact, 20% of Italy’s golden jewelry is made in this community located between Venice and Verona.
Bicego said he finds inspiration in nature, where every shape is unique. Every piece of jewelry is handmade.
Bicego described his jewelry as something that may be worn anytime, as opposed to those pieces that are reserved for dressy occasions.
“Sometimes, the ladies, they say, ‘I have a lot of jewelry, but what I love to wear the most is Marco Bicego, because it’s more of an everyday style.”
This quality is important to Bicego, as is its timelessness. He continues to sell works reproduced from collections he launched 25 years ago, and they are still very much in demand.
“I don’t follow trends,” he explained. “I believe that jewelry is not about trends. It’s about timelessness and wearability for a long time.”
He aims to create jewelry that can be passed down through generations and enjoyed by each successive one.
Clients appreciated the rare opportunity to meet and speak with Bicego; he only makes, at most, 10 personal appearances a year worldwide. The acclaimed designer said he enjoys these visits.
“I learn so much being on the floor and having the opportunity to meet the ladies,” he said. “To see how they enjoy the jewelry.”
Sometimes, he uses these gatherings to test a new pieces and get feedback from customers.
Bicego has been making his work available at Underwood’s for more than 20 years and said he values his relationship with the Bromberg family. The value of this arrangement works both ways.
“It is always great when you have a personal appearance by a designer like Marco Bicego,” said Store Manager John Rutkowski. “It’s really, really special, not only for us, but especially for our clients, who can meet him and talk to him.”
To learn more about Underwood Jewelers and see some of Bicego’s pieces, go to underwoodjewelers.com.
