MUSE COUTURE CONVOS: Francesca Villa
Welcome to "Muse COUTURE Convos," where we journey into the world of exceptional fine jewelry with the talented designers showcasing their fabulous collections at the annual COUTURE Show in Las Vegas. In this exciting series, we explore the inspirations, craftsmanship, and stories behind some of the most stunning collections in the industry. Join us as we chat with these visionary artists, unveiling the passion and creativity that drive their work. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a jewelry enthusiast, our conversations promise to inspire and enchant, bringing you closer to the heart of jewelry.
Francesca Villa weaves the essence of her travels into each jewelry design. With a background in leading Italian luxury, her eponymous brand, founded in 2007, marries eclectic treasures found on her journeys with fine materials, resulting in pieces that boast a unique design and soul.
Tell us what you’re focusing on or debuting at COUTURE this year.
I will debut several new collections at COUTURE this year. Change Your Stripes is a collection that juxtaposes joyous nostalgia with our adult nature in a set of reversible rings and pendants. Lovers Eyes is a collection of one-of-a-kind lenticular necklaces made with captivating moving eyes.
If you had to describe what prepping for COUTURE feels like, how would you describe it?
Excitement and … very busy! There is so much to do in the run-up, but I think we have made good preparations to introduce the world of Francesca Villa at Couture!
Which piece from the collection you’re showing at COUTURE best captures your essence as a designer?
My Change Your Stripes bracelet: this piece is a combination of innovation, heritage, and high craftsmanship.
What is your favorite thing about Vegas?
The gambling chips!! The stories they could tell!
If you could only work with one gemstone for the rest of your career, which would it be and why?
Peridot — I love the luminosity of this stone. These vivid shades of green are very ‘me.’
Which historical era do you wish you could have designed jewelry in, and what appeals to you about that time?
I’m fond of the period between 1790 and 1820 when the art of eye miniatures was popular.
Which artist or designer has had the most profound impact on your work, and how do they continue to influence you?
Line Vautrin was a French jewelry maker, designer, and decorative artist whose work inspires me today with its beautiful sense of poetry.
Where is your favorite place to design, and how does this space influence your creative process?
My studio is in Solonghello, Italy, surrounded by my many-year-old collections of objet trouvés.
What is one thing you hope people will remember about your jewelry 100 years from now?
Joy.
