Student Journals: AIFS in Florence, Italy

Prof. Costanza Menchi
Richmond in Florence, Italy

COSTUME JEWELRY IN FLORENCE
Richmond Students make their exclusive hand made accessories in a Florentine workshop.

Students in Florence make jewelry

Following their deep passion for fashion and their desire to express their creativity, after years of practicing and experimenting with alternative materials, Silvia and Annamaria sisters decided on opening their workshop and atelier Gioie e Colori (Joys and Colors) in a small town ten minutes away from Florence. In this welcoming location you find yourself surrounded by the colors of the Mediterranean: a rainbow of all the possible nuances and materials at your disposal. You can purchase finished one-of-a-kind costume jewels, or you can even make your own creation, mixing and matching exclusive Made in Italy components, resins, beads, chains, pearls, pendants, crystal beads, and also feathers.

The most distinguishing features of these products are the high quality of the materials (all Made in Florence), the exclusivity and uniqueness of the designs drawn by Silvia and Annamaria themselves, who make each women feel beautiful and sensual without spending a fortune for a restyling. Periodically, when they are not showing their products during numerous fashion fairs everywhere in Italy, the two creative sisters also hold workshops in their studio, teaching their secrets and giving suggestions on how to create refined accessories.

Recently students from Richmond University Florence Program, enrolled in Italian Fashion course taught by Prof. Costanza Menchi, had their hands on experience at Gioie e Colori studio, attending a workshop. This experience gave them a most comprehensive knowledge of the added value of the renowned Italian hand made products and traditional craftsmanship.

After having discussed in class about the Made in Italy and its meaning, the history of jewelry and the making techniques, students experienced the time, efforts, dedication, and passion they need to put in creating their personal piece of jewelry. For the majority of them it was the first time, and at the beginning they were scared plunging themselves in this adventure. Following the suggestions of Silvia and Annamaria, and taking inspiration from their creations, all the students finally were able to create something beautiful and original that will remind them of Italian fashion and its value based on skilled craftsmen, high quality materials, exclusivity, creativity and a perfect balance between traditional techniques and innovative designs.

The experience has successfully put the students in touch with Florentine people and the local culture, working side by side and acquiring an authentic and unforgettable cultural knowledge, while Silvia and Annamaria have contributed in promoting the Italian craftsmanship by sharing their know-how and their creativity with them.

This initiative is part of the educational experience Discovering Craftsmanship and Made in Italy in Florence that aims at linking the Florentine artisans, small and medium sizes businesses reality with the American /International students’ community in Florence.

The goal is learning through experience for a better understanding of Italian fashion and culture, its heritage, and the future perspectives.

Richmond in Florence

Richmond Florence Internship Program