About Tubogas Design
A distinctive aesthetic of Tubogas was obtained from the gas pipes design. Bulgari adopted this look in 1940s with the help of Carlo Weingrill, who contributed his designer’s vision to the cause. As the name implied, the Tubogas style is flexible and adaptable to any jewelry form, from rings to watches.
The actual tubogas technique, which was a plumbing manufacturing process, came from the 19th century. The technique required wrapping metal in tight coils around a central rod that was later removed, allowing to make a hollow chain. In the 1940s this process inspired a few French makers and Bulgari (in collaboration with Weingrill) to massively use this principle in jewelry making.
The Tubogas technique was used for the famous Bulgari watch series called Serpenti. It symbolizes the snake, a widely popular element in ancient Roman culture.
About French Jewelry
Vintage French jewelry is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and artistic excellence. French jewelers have a long history of mastering intricate techniques, such as filigree, enameling, and stone setting, resulting in pieces of top-notch quality and beauty.
Timeless jewelry designs created in France transcend fashion trends. The use of classic motifs and harmonious proportions ensures that vintage French jewelry remains relevant across generations.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, French jewelry was heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau movement. Between 1920s and 1930s, the Art Deco movement took over, influencing French jewelry with its geometric shapes, bold colors, and symmetrical designs.
France is home to several prestigious jewelry houses that have made significant contributions to the world of vintage jewelry. Notable names include Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Boucheron, each with its unique style and heritage.
Coco Chanel made a significant impact on the world of jewelry with her costume jewelry designs. Her use of faux pearls, glass, and other non-traditional materials revolutionized fashion jewelry.
Whether you’re interested in the elegance of Art Deco or the organic forms of Art Nouveau, there’s a wide range of vintage French jewelry styles to explore and appreciate.
