Greek silversmith Sotirios Voulgaris arrived in Rome in 1881 and set up his own shop there in 1884, calling it Bulgari, an Italianization of his last name (in the brand's logo, it's styled BVLGARI, using the classical Latin alphabet in a nod to ancient Roman culture). In 1905, he opened the company’s flagship boutique on Rome’s Via dei Condotti. Since then, Bulgari has looked to Rome as a source of reference for its fanciful and decidedly romantic designs for necklaces, bracelets, earrings and other accessories.
Although the iconic jewelry house found success with its silverwork and Art Deco designs, popular through the 1920s, Bulgari’s signature style — bold, often using yellow gold embellished with big colorful gemstones — began to emerge when Sotirios’s sons inherited the business, in 1932.
The brand truly hit its stride in the dolce vita era of the 1950s and ’60s, when the founder’s grandsons Paolo, Gianni and Nicola Bulgari decisively departed from demure traditional styles to develop the house’s exuberant multi-gem looks, attracting celebrity collectors like Elizabeth Taylor.
In the 1940s, Bulgari debuted perhaps its most famous design, the Serpenti bracelet watch. The piece’s snakelike coils were made possible by the tubogas jewelry technique, which links a flexible series of thin horizontal bands. Both the sleek, modern tubogas construction and the sinuous snake motif continue to be synonymous with the Bulgari brand.
On 1stDibs, the collection of vintage Bulgari jewelry includes rings, pendant necklaces, watches and other accessories.
Alexander Wang x Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Nude 3-Way Small Bag
By Bulgari
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
An elegant limited-edition piece from the Alexander Wang x Bvlgari collaboration, this Serpenti Forever Small Bag combines Bvlgari's iconic jewellery heritage with Alexander Wang's c...
Christian Dior by John Galliano Cadillac Montaigne Saddle Bag
By John Galliano for Christian Dior, Christian Dior
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
Brand: Christian Dior by John Galliano Product Name: Cadillac Montaigne Saddle Bag Product Description: Introducing the Christian Dior by John Galliano Cadillac Montaigne Saddle Bag...
Fendi x Versace "Fendace" Baguette 3-Way Shoulder Clutch Crossbody Bag
By Fendi, Versace
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
A coveted piece from the iconic Fendi x Versace "Fendace" collaboration, this statement Baguette bag celebrates the fusion of two legendary Italian fashion houses. Crafted from smoot...
Versace Croc-Effect Medusa '95 Small Handbag in Baby Blue
By Versace
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
A small handbag with belt detail featuring the Medusa '95 hardware, the iconic House code first seen in the 1995 collections. The top handle design is made from croc-effect embossed ...
Versace Virtus Waist Chain Sling Leather Quilted Small Bag Black
By Versace, Gianni Versace
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
A statement piece from Versace’s esteemed collection, this elegant bag merges luxury with functionality, perfect for the modern fashionista. Crafted from premium black leather, this small bag features a timeless quilted design that exudes sophistication and class. The intricate pattern is not just a visual delight but also a testament to Versace’s commitment to exquisite craftsmanship. Key Features: -Made from high-quality black leather with a quilted pattern that adds texture and depth to the bag. - Adorned with the iconic Virtus emblem a bold, gold-tone V-shaped design that symbolizes strength and beauty. Compact and Stylish: Despite its small size, this bag offers ample space for essentials, making it a perfect companion for day-to-night transitions...
Celine Vintage Macadam monogram Boston Handbag Bag
By Celine
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
This vintage Celine Boston bag is a timeless expression of the house’s understated Parisian elegance, crafted in the iconic Macadam coated canvas with refined tan leather trim. Feat...
Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Small Leather Top Handle Crossbody Bag Green
By Bulgari
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
CONDITION: VERY GOOD Light rubbing around the corners, leather creases and scratches to the leather. Scratches to the hardware. Light stains. DETAILS Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Lea...
Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Emerald Green Leather Chain Medium Shoulder Bag
By Bulgari
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301650 Comes With Bvlgari Dust bag, Bvlgari Authenticity Card and Care booklet Date 2018 Model Serpenti Forever Serial Number 27****** Metal Gold-Plated Materials Calfskin Ston...
BVLGARI Serpenti Forever Flap Bag Green Calfskin Leather Shoulder Bag
Located in Guangzhou, CN
These are professional pictures of the actual item offered by Eluse. Condition: Fair,Signs of normal use overall, with worn corners. There is minimal leather damage, scuffed chai...
Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Teal Leather Chain Medium Shoulder Bag
By Bulgari
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301675 Comes With Dandelion Authenticity Guarantee Card Only Model Serpenti Forever Serial Number 27****** Metal Gold-Plated Materials Calfskin Stones Enamel Condition Excellen...
Moynat Rejane BB Emerald Green Taurillon Grained Leather Gold Hardware Crossbody
By Moynat
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Moynat Réjane BB Crossbody Bag, Green Pebbled Calfskin, Gold-tone Hardware Included with original dust bag and shoulder strap. Light wear marks on leath...
MIU MIU green leather 2019 CONFIDENTAL FAUX LIZARD Top Handle Bag
By Miu Miu
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Miu Miu 2019 Confidential Lizard-Embossed Square Top Handle Bag is crafted in a striking green finish with elegant gold-tone hardware that highlights its structur...
Jewelry historian Vanessa Cron combed 1stDibs and selected some dazzling pieces with timeless appeal.
From Elizabeth Taylor to Zendaya, the Serpenti has been the accessory of choice for generations of it girls.
