Hidden Treasure In Florence: Handmade Jewelry Worth Searching For
A few months ago, a friend returned home with one of the coolest Florence souvenirs I had ever seen: a 1 Euro coin that had been flattened and pressed into a fleur-de-lis (the symbol of Florence) right in front of her eyes. Immediately, my eyes lit up and I knew I just had to get one of my own. However, when I asked her what store it had come from, I didn’t get a name. Just an address.
And so, a few weeks before my departure from Florence, I found myself standing in front of Piazza Santo Spirito 12, incredulously staring at the buzzer, about to press “Ricchi” and hope for an answer. The building itself is unassuming, if I didn’t know better I would just as soon guess that I was heading to a friend’s apartment.
As the buzzer sounded, I wandered into the courtyard within. However, instead of stepping into an ordinary flat, I was welcomed into the workshop of Giuliano Ricchi, by the artisan himself.
I spent some time wandering around the shop, asking Giuliano in my broken Italian about various aspects of his business. As he proudly directed me around his studio, I was shown the variety of goods he produces there, from soap dishes to mirrors to jewelry. He even took the time to show me around downstairs, where I was able to observe him in action, flattening sheets of metal on hand operated machines, pressing designs into them. It was fascinating getting to meet an artisan so clearly passionate about his work, and humbling that he took so much time and care showing me around.
Giuliano has been in business for over 50 years, and looking around his studio it shows. Though his workshop is hidden away, the treasures that lie within are sent around the world-Rome, Paris, New York. He has even worked with the fashion house Dior, and several of his creations are shipped worldwide.
A perk of visiting the workshop yourself, besides witnessing some pretty cool artistry, are the prices. The items sold here cost much less than their retail value when sold in a store or overseas. I purchased a wine stopper and a bracelet made in front of my eyes from a Euro coin for 20 Euro. Quite a bargain if you ask me!
In addition to some pretty cool traditional pieces, Giuliano also has some remarkably trendy works as well, such as coordinate bracelets and charms of the Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and David.
I left the store a happy customer, enchanted by the hidden gems inside the studio, and by Giuliano Ricchi, who is a treasure to meet himself. If you are looking for a unique, handmade memento of your time in Florence, I highly recommend stopping by, and experiencing a bit of traditional Florentine magic for yourself.
Looking for more Florence tips? Try one of these posts!
- 30 Great Places To Eat & Drink In Florence
- Top 5 Views in Florence (And Where to Find Them!)
- Finding Florence’s Most Unique Memento
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