Bulgari’s New Book Explores the Stories Behind the Jewels

New York--Author Vincent Meylan has recounted the stories behind the jewels of institutions such as Christie’s and Van Cleef & Arpels. Now, he is turning his attention to Bulgari.

“Bulgari, Treasures of Rome” brings to life some of Bulgari’s most iconic pieces and the clients who patronized the jewelry house.

Distinctly Roman in its inspiration, which encompasses Byzantine and Islamic architecture, Bulgari is known for several enduring designs like the “Trombino” ring and “Serpenti” bracelets. Meylan explores the development of these and other Bulgari pieces, from mine to workshop to model.

Meylan was granted “unprecedented access” to the Bulgari archives to write “Treasures of Rome” and the book features new photographs of important pieces.



It also features archival photos of Bulgari’s impressive clientele, like the Countess di Frasso who frequented Bulgari with her Hollywood paramour Gary Cooper, or Infanta Beatriz of Spain and Princess Maria Jose of Belgium.

The Hollywood queen of jewelry, Elizabeth Taylor, naturally makes an appearance in the book alongside her love Richard Burton, who gave her Bulgari jewels. Also featured is the marriage of Tyrone Power and Linda Christian, who were wed with Bulgari rings.

Apart from the glamorous, Meylan also delves into the exciting and infamous, with stories of exiled Iranian shahs and Count Cini of Monselice, who has held for ransom by the Nazi SS and released in exchange for Bulgari jewelry.


“Bulgari, Treasures of Rome” is out now from ACC Art Books and retails for $95.

For the same publisher Meylan also has penned “Boucheron: The Secret Archives,” 2011; “Van Cleef & Arpels: Treasures and Legends,” 2014; and “Christie’s: The Jewellery Archives Revealed,” 2016.