BVLGARI Monete
Two ancient, 2157 year old, silver denarios, set in a 18 karat gold frame with a half moon of 11 brilliant cut diamonds finishing with a strongly saturated cabochon ruby. Historical. Graphical. Elegant. Outstanding!
Gross weight 26.5 gram,
Measurement: 22.1×21.98mm clip (a pin can easily be added for extra safety/stability)
Both Engraved:
L. MINUCIUS 133 A- C,
Stamped Italy, 750 hallmark, workshop nr,
Signed Bvlgari
Old money.
From the Italian Icon – Bvlgari – not only an interesting look, but they also show cultural heritage and are interesting conversation pieces due to the incredible history behind each piece. We just Adore the style! It remains one of Bulgari’s most successful lines and is represented in the Bulgaris Heritage Collection and exhibited at their museum.
Vintage Monete are passionately sought after and have in recent years had a surge in demand.
Coins were not just forged as a means for trade transactions, but the images appearing on them could be symbols of power, sometimes symbolic talismans, and could manifest alliances between countries or families. Using antique coins in jewelry was not a new thing. The Roman nobility during Antiquity already did it, the style then had a revival during the 19th century, in particular with Roman jewelers like the Castellani. The Bulgari family knew well this story, as some of the 1800s jewels were collected by Nicola Bulgari, as much as antique coins. He indeed wanted to be an archaeologist, so his fascination for the past was strong.
Bulgari’s Monete collection is flush with cultural currency. – “Reaching back through the centuries, Bulgari honors antiquity with Monete. Revering the artistic coins of yore. Bulgari contrasts them with the brilliance of its modern style.” Like a rare gem of inestimable historical value this ancient Roman coin has found a new life as precious jewel. The use of rare coins reflected Bulgari’s commitment to honoring history—any irregularities or signs of wear were preserved. Monete pieces date back to the 1960s, when Rome was the epicenter of glamour the so called “La Dolce Vita” era. During this time Bulgari began to make Monete a feature of the house’s narrative. Evoking Bulgari’s artisanal craftsmanship, avant-garde materials and unrivalled design as a stylish way to reference the family’s Greek and Roman roots. As rare as precious stones, ancient coins, sourced from antiquarians and auction houses, are referred to as “gemme nummarie” (nummary gems) and straddle centuries of history.
Both Grace Kelly and Elisabeth Taylor are among the women who wore Bulgaris Monete jewelry.
