Vicenzaoro Day Two: It's All About the Design

Earrings by SUPERORO, Flora collection, Gold Expressions 2007

Traffic picked up on the second day of the Vicenzaoro Winter 2007 fair. Jewelers saw more traffic today, providing them with not just jewelry buyers, but also local celebrities, including TV personalities as well as the current Miss Italy; all of whom drew great attention and requests for photos. However, the joy was not spread evenly around.

The 'design within design' theme is also seen with other elements such as marquise shaped components with heart designs in them. Another variation is the addition of a third dimension to common shapes. Flat discs now have an additional layer, sometimes with a different color. Square and rectangular elements are seen often, mostly in 3-D form.

Variations within items are also popular and include bracelets and necklaces with links in different shapes or sizes or materials such as rose, red, and yellow gold. Necklaces with multiple strands (and multiple styles) are also being seen more than before.

New motifs that are appearing include floral and ancient coin inspired designs as elements in chains, charms and central components. Finally, the designs this year look lighter, thinner and airier. Jewelers don't say it out right, but the understanding is that the sharp rise in the price of gold has affected the designs, forcing designers to look for clever ways to bring down the cost of items and meet price points. One major Italian jewelry maker admitted that many of her buyers are still trying to adjust to the higher prices of gold items.