Ep. 46 - The Art of Timeless Jewelry: An Interview with World Renowned Designer Ilaria Lanzoni

We live in the age of fast fashion and convenience, where we can pretty much get everything we want with the click of a button. 

My guest would say that this is exactly the wrong way to buy something as important as an engagement ring or any jewelry for that matter. 

Italian born, Ilaria Lanzoni, or Ila as she likes to be called, is a world renowned jewelry designer…with over 25 years of high-end jewelry design experience. Her creations have been worn by some pretty impressive celebrities like Beyonce, Celine Dion, Gwen Stefani, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts…and more.  

Ila explains the intricate process behind creating beautiful pieces of jewelry, and she emphasizes the importance of proportions and wearability in jewelry, shedding light on the often-overlooked labor and skill that goes into creating each piece. We’re going to talk about the art and science of jewelry making, and Ila will also give her best advice on how to buy jewelry that’s perfect for you, and your situation. 

Oh, and her accent?  It’s killer. 

Here are some highlights of this episode: 

1. The Craftsmanship Behind Jewelry:
   -Ila provides insight into the intricate process of designing and crafting jewelry, from the initial concept to the final creation.

2. Balancing Aesthetics and Reproducibility:
   - The challenge of creating designs that are not only beautiful but also reproducible, and how true masters in the field navigate this delicate balance.

3. The Importance of Proportions:
   - Ila discusses how proportions play a pivotal role in determining the elegance and sophistication of a piece, elevating it from generic to exceptional.

4. Labor of Love:
   - A glimpse into the dedication and discipline required for jewelry-making, as Ila reveals the painstaking efforts that go into ensuring each piece is perfect.

5. Choosing the Perfect Jewelry Gift:
   - Ila offers advice for individuals seeking to surprise their loved ones with a meaningful piece of jewelry, emphasizing the importance of understanding the recipient's style and preferences.

6. The Significance of Local Jewelers:
   - Ila advocates for the personal touch that local jewelers bring to the table, allowing customers to feel, touch, and ask questions about their potential purchases. (I support this 1000%)

7. Storytelling Through Design:
   - The art of infusing meaning and narrative into jewelry design, and how these stories resonate with clients, making their pieces truly special.

8. The Value of Investing in Fine Jewelry:
   - Me and Ila discuss the distinction between true fine jewelry and disposable pieces, highlighting the enduring value that comes with investing in craftsmanship.

To find out more about Ila and her beautiful designs visit her website: https://ilanzoni.com/ or email her directly at ilaria@ilarialanzoni.com.

If you'd like help finding a jeweler closer to home, email me at andy@buylikeaguy.com and I'll do my best to put you in touch with some of the best jewelers on earth.

Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head.  They're awesome.

Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987