Bvlgari has been setting the standard for exquisite quality and design since 1884. The brand is known for its forward-looking, artistic spirit that draws inspiration from the timeless beauty of Greek and Roman art, while giving it a distinctive contemporary touch. Greek like its founder, Sotirio Bvlgari - and Roman like the culture he embraced.

The first Bvlgari store was set up in Rome on via Condotti and served as a meeting place for the aristocracy and the glamorous world of culture and cinema. The label’s style is focused on pure luxury obtained through interesting combinations, precious materials, purity of design and a keen eye for detail.

The Bvlgaris descended from an ancient family of Greek silversmiths, whose trade began in a small village of Epirus, where Sotirio, the family founder, manufactured precious silver objects. In the late 19th century, Sotirio moved to Italy, and in 1884 he opened his first shop in via Sistina, Rome. In 1905, with the help of his sons Costantino and Giorgio, he inaugurated the shop in via Condotti, which is currently still the Bvlgari flagship store.

In the early 20th century, the two brothers developed a deep interest and expertise in precious stones, jewels and watches, gradually taking over their father’s role in the management of the business.

The period immediately after the Second World War marked an important change in the history of Bvlgari. It represented an important point of time for the company, which moved away from the dominant strict rules of the French goldsmith school, and created its own individualistic style. The inspiration came from Greek and Roman classicism, with a special take on Italian Renaissance, and the 19th century Roman school of goldsmiths.

Bvlgari’s international expansion began in the 1970s with the opening of the first overseas store in New York, followed by others in Paris, Geneva, and Monte Carlo.

In the 1980s Bvlgari launched the BVLGARI BVLGARI watch, a worldwide success story, considered an all-time classic. These years also see the establishment of Bvlgari Time Neuchâtel – a company specially founded to produce all Bvlgari watch lines.

The early 1990s witnessed a definite diversification strategy by Bvlgari. The establishment of Bvlgari Parfums in Switzerland marked the Group’s entry in the high-end perfume market. In 1997 Bvlgari introduced its first silk collection, made up of scarves and ties, featuring original designs and top-quality Italian craftsmanship.