In conversation with Ippolita Rostagno
Jewelry designer Ippolita Rostagno tell us something more about the e-commerce platform Artemest, she founded to export the most sought-after luxury artisanal objects
Ippolita Rostagno knows exactly what Americans want when they talk about luxury and jewels. The Florentine jewel designer has lived in the U.S. for thirty years, and thanks to her iconic collection – which has graced the red carpet on the likes of Reese Witherspoon, Cameron Diaz and Penelope Cruz – she has become one of the leading ambassadors of quality Italian production overseas.
When she realized that many Italian artisans were closing their workshops because of the financial crisis, Rostagno decided to do something to support them in exporting their own marvels to the star-spangled market. That is how Artemest came about, the website where you can buy the best of luxury Italian craftsmanship: from De Simone’s coral jewels to sculptural pieces by the young Roman duo Co.Ro, and even Bitossi and Paravicini.
What made you decide to launch the Artemest project?
Artemest came from the need and sense of duty to preserve a very important part of Italian cultural heritage: workmanship and arts and crafts that have made this country famous the world over.
What services do you offer artisans that choose the ‘support’ of your platform?
Artemest supports the best artisanal Italian companies, promoting and distributing their products in foreign markets. This backing covers everything from the choice of products to marketing and on to logistics. The project recreates a curated online environment with videos, photos and editorials that valorize the quality of the products and the wonderful work that distinguishes them. Artemest ships to about 65 countries and this gives small-to-medium artisanal businesses the opportunity to showcase their products internationally.
What do Americans like about ‘Made in Italy,’ particularly concerning jewelry, and how do you choose your designers?
Americans like care and quality, which are guaranteed in handmade Italian products. Beauty is the recurring theme in our choices.
What is the key of your success?
We chose to not sell well-known brands but to try to shine the spotlight on hidden gems on the design and Italian artisan scene, which is still so unchartered. This makes Artemest a one-of-a-kind destination that sets it apart from its competitors.
[gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="19867,19865"]
How has the opinion of ‘Made in Italy’ changed in the last few years? Has it become a ‘brand’ that appeals even to Millennials?
‘Made in Italy’ has always been synonymous with excellence, meticulousness and quality. While this is an unquestionable advantage for Italian manufacturers, it also encompasses a responsibility to make products and services that are up the standards of the ‘Made in Italy’ brand, to protect and valorize it even further. An e-commerce tool coupled with such a vast assortment like that of Artemest, represents the quest for this meeting point, and it is a successful formula to draw in an audience of Millennials, who are always looking for unique products that embody their story as well as authentic quality.
*As originally featured in the last issue of the VO+ USA special edition
Words Matteo Guizzardi Portrait Troy Word
