i-D FINEJEWELLERY

Every jewel is a memory, inextricably linked to a time, a place, or a person and this is why Francesca Villa puts objects trouvés at the heart of each her creation.Objects found in drawers, anitque shops, vintage markets or private collections around the world.Giving new life to forgotten objects like old love letters, antique toy soldiers, and vintage American casino chips: This is the promise inherent in all Francesca Villa creations.

Francesca has designed jewellery for some of the world’s most prestigious houses, developing an in-depth knowledge and a profound expertise. Prior to setting up her own line, she was the Creative Director of a renown atelier that designed and produced jewellery for some of the world’s leading international brands. Although this experience was hugely fulfilling, eventually creating successful designs that would be produced in their thousands started to erode her artistic passion. She wanted to create a Brand that was closer to her own obsessions for unique and one-of-a-kind treasures. Designs that valued story-telling, and the profound connections of people to, and through, art, objects and decoration. Founding her own Brand in 2007, she has built a loyal following of clients who avidly collect her pieces. Her designs are sold internationally in the world’s leading boutiques and department stores. Francesca also creates bespoke designs with her client’s own treasured objects.

What defines your style?   

My fascination started with the tales of my grandfather Nino – a captain of commercial vessels – who travelled the world, returning with souvenirs of new places. My collection is a complex symbiosis in which the handicraft of the modern “bricoleur” meets the soul of the artist.