About Ippolita
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In the picturesque Tuscan hills, just a stone's throw from Florence, 1963 saw the birth of a girl with stars in her eyes and dreams as vast as the horizon. Ippolita Rostagno, a blend of American artistry from her mother and Italian intellect from her father, grew up with the melodies of Florence's bustling streets. The Ponte Vecchio, with its shimmering stalls, whispered tales of elegance and beauty, igniting a passion for jewelry in her.<br><br> As the seasons changed and Ippolita blossomed, so did her love for art. By 1978, she was walking the hallowed halls of the Instituto d'Arte in Florence, sculpting dreams out of clay. But fate, being the playful force it is, whisked her away to Los Angeles in 1982. There, amidst the city's rhythm, she birthed 'Rime', a dance company that waltzed with poetry and movement. But the siren call of jewelry was irresistible. By the mid-80s, the bustling streets of New York, where 18K Gold became her canvas, her pallet gemstones, crafting masterpieces that whispered tales of intimacy.<br><br> 1990 was a year of revelation for Ippolita. She saw a world craving fine jewelry that wasn't just for grand balls but everyday elegance. She danced with gold and silver, crafting organic shapes that felt as natural as a leaf swaying in the wind. And in 1999, the world took notice when Bergdorf Goodman unveiled her collection.<br><br> Her quest for uniqueness led her to the heart of India and the soul of Bangkok. There, amidst the skilled Thai artisans, she discovered the beauty of various materials and the potential of using more of the rough stone, finding beauty in the inclusions that had been centuries in the making. Her collections grew, and so did her accolades. From being inducted into the CFDA in 2011 to opening her flagship store in New York, Ippolita was unstoppable.<br><br> By 2007, she expanded her collection to include 925 silver, reaching a new audience. And in 2013 she was recognized as the Best Jewelry Designer by the Jewelers of America Gem Awards and the Andrea Palladio International Jewelry Awards.<br><br> Today, Ippolita's jewelry stands out not just for its beauty but for its ethos. Drawing from Italian traditions, her designs emphasize fewer, better things, reflecting a no-waste society. The tradition of craftsmanship is evident in every piece, showcasing the belief in doing things oneself, with one's own hands, ensuring control over production and waste.<br><br> Ippolita's journey from the Tuscan hills to the global stage is a testament to her passion, creativity, and dedication. Her pieces are more than just jewelry; they are wearable art, each telling a story of a woman who waited for no one and crafted her destiny with her own hands.
