Rosmundo Giarletta

Jewellery maker

The goldsmith who stopped at Eboli

Rosmundo created the figurative honeycomb technique
He is inspired by the beauty that surrounds him
He seeks to convey emotions in his work

“I chose this profession,” says Rosmundo Giarletta, “because I think it is really special and unique to give shape and life to our emotions and feelings through the most noble and ancient of metals: gold. When it is expertly shaped by the goldsmith, gold spans the centuries, symbolising the culture and traditions of ancient civilisations.” The figurative honeycomb technique is Rosmundo’s invention and the signature ingredient of his creations. Now handed down to his sons Francesco and Giuseppe, this unique technique consists of a mysteriously intricate game of spaces and shadows, matt patches versus shiny ones, through which Rosmundo expresses the emotions and the history of his region and his clients.

Interview

Why did you develop your figurative honeycomb technique?: What prompted me to study this technique was first of all my desire to find a feature that would identify my brand. In 1997, I used it in my work Te Deum, to describe the history of the Grimaldi family of the Principality of Monaco and mark their 700 years of reign.
When did you chose to become a goldsmith?: During my adolescence. My inspiring muse was my mother, an excellent embroiderer and a woman who loved to wear earrings, rings, necklaces. Subsequently in Florence my passion was strengthened studying the works of the most important representative of this art: Benvenuto Cellini.
How would you define your profession?: It is not a profession but my passion, my identity. The Italian goldsmiths' workshops are and always will be a heritage and an important foundation of our economy. They witness the values of beauty, refinement and luxury that have always made us unique in the world.
How is your craft linked to where you work?: My whole existence is inextricably tied to the place where I was born: Eboli and its province. All my works and my jewels are entirely inspired by this land, its history, its colours, the wonderful sun of southern Italy and the Amalfi coast.

Rosmundo Giarletta is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1982