As quintessentially British Burberry gets ready to show in Milan and the Italian designer Valentino takes his curtain call in Paris, it’s hard not to think that national identities have become meaningless in fashion, and borders do not determine aesthetics. Yet, when it comes to jewellery, certain stereotypes still hold: “German” often equates to a patina of engineering and efficiency, “Scandinavian” conjures up images of functional pieces sculptured in cold white metals, while “Italian” brings colour to mind.
If in doubt, simply consider the latest Italian invasion, a raft of brands creating signature fireworks (in stone of course) outside their home country, whether it’s Milan-based Pomellato, opening its first store on Brook Street, Vhernier from Valenza, or Roberto Marroni from Vicenza.
