Despite its patriotic leanings, Bulgari’s B.Zero1 collection has had enduring international appeal, with over two million rings alone sold since its inception in 1999. Now, 20 years on, the collection is showing no signs of slowing down
You’d be hard pressed to find a jewellery house more proud of its origins than Bulgari. The Serpenti is drawn from the serpent of Roman mythology, the Bulgari Bulgari and Monete collections were inspired by ancient Roman coins, and the four-petal flower motif of the Fiorever line is supposed to be a Roman symbol for happiness and joy. Bulgari is Roman and it will make darn sure you know it.
But for all its sometimes esoteric references—not everyone is going to make the connection between the Parentesi’s interlocking designs and Rome’s stone pavements—the B.Zero1 is arguably the most emblematic, having been inspired by the imposing shapes of the historic Colosseum. It has become an icon in the jewellery world and it’s only 20 years old.
Because in spite of the patriotism, Bulgari’s designs tend to have enduring international appeal. Over two million B.Zero1 rings have been sold since its inception, and that’s not even counting the pendants, bracelets and earrings that followed after the ring’s launch in 1999.