It was the summer of love. In 1967, California embraced the unconventional — in style, spirit and support for the burgeoning women’s movement. That same year in Milan, Pomellato, founded by Pino Rabolini, introduced the concept of prêt-à-porter artisanal jewelry designed with the independent woman in mind. Just over 50 years later, in August 2018, those two complementary worlds came together again in the new Pomellato boutique on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California.
Synonymous with contemporary luxury, Pomellato combines distinctive Milanese flair with Italian goldsmith craftsmanship. All the jewelry is produced in Italy, and incorporates traceability and sustainability practices. The company is known for using exuberant, playful colored gemstones in designs that extend beyond the traditional.
LA style“Californians have their own style identity, which fits Pomellato perfectly; they want something different,” says Nathalie Diamantis, CEO of Americas for the brand. “Having a flagship in LA was a priority for us. While the city is a center of fashion and art, it is very much about lifestyle that goes from casual to red carpet.” The jewelry can be worn from day to evening and at the beach in between, she adds.
“In the back of our minds, we always thought that the new store should launch with a fabulous new collection,” continues Diamantis, who is also CEO of Kering Jewelry, Americas, overseeing brands Dodo and Boucheron in addition to Pomellato. The timing of the boutique’s opening was fortuitous: It coincided with the introduction of Montenapoleone, a limited collection of one-of-a-kind cocktail rings in cabochon or multifaceted cuts, available only at Rodeo Drive and “a handful” of other boutiques worldwide. Named for the most prestigious shopping street in Milan, the line evokes the city’s allure in palettes that range from rose-hued tourmaline and kunzite to the rich tones of sapphire and tanzanite.
“The LA woman will find that our collections present many options,” Diamantis points out, explaining that entry-level price points of $1,500 afford a woman the chance to “acquire and stack over time” — a key feature of many Pomellato collections. The Iconica line, created for Pomellato’s 50th anniversary, consists of lightweight, stackable pieces for mixing and matching, including chain bracelets, sautoirs and earrings in white or rose gold. M’ama non M’ama — Italian for “she loves me, she loves me not” — are kaleidoscopes of cabochon-cut gemstones such as pink sapphire, rhodolite garnet and London blue topaz. The sleek and modern Nudo (nude) collection features prong-free designs with elegant simplicity.
“While colored stones have their own personality, diamonds, whether white or black, are a quintessential part of our jewelry,” says Diamantis. “Diamonds are really the key to highlighting gemstones and creating the movement that is an essential part of our bold designs.”
#PomellatoForWomenPomellato’s designs are more than just innovative. Since its creation, the company has always considered itself a brand that empowers women.
“We are a very feminine brand,” says Diamantis, citing the round shapes, stackable styles and bold right-hand rings that are “very much Pomellato.” Of the brand’s female customers, 85% are self-purchasers, many of them buying jewelry to reward themselves for a goal attained or to commemorate a special moment, according to Diamantis. She cites a study showing that 51% of millennials — that elusive demographic — will purchase jewelry to celebrate an occasion.
The company remains true to its “by women, for women” identity. Sabina Bell has been its CEO since 2015, and 75% of the company’s workforce is female. In spring 2017, #PomellatoForWomen was launched as an opportunity for women from different walks of life to share their stories, inspire each other and highlight the importance of female leadership. Chiara Ferragni, a fashion influencer who created lifestyle blog The Blonde Salad in 2009, leads the 2018 #PomellatoForWomen campaign.
Appealing to the digital generation is a critical component of the Pomellato branding strategy. As part of the company’s promotional mix, Diamantis has reached out to influencers such as bloggers and stylists, a move she says is especially important in a city known for its many celebrities.
Resplendent with brilliant color and exquisite style, Pomellato jewelry has always remained faithful to its roots. It is designed to let women express their personalities and celebrate their accomplishments.
“We want women to understand the Pomellato heritage,” says Diamantis. “Women identify with jewelry that speaks to them.”
Image (left to right): Montenapoleone ring; Iconica collection band rings. Article from the Rapaport Magazine - October 2018. To subscribe click here.