MY STORY
Behind Âme is me, Carlotta.
I like to think that, since my mum used to make jewellery, it all started in my DNA. I studied Design at Politecnico di Milano, graduating in 2007 with a thesis on jewellery as an accessory. After completing a master’s degree in jewellery design, also in Milan, I began working as a designer for some of Italy’s leading brands. In 2014, I decided to go freelance, spending the next couple of years working as a consultant for international jewellery brands.
Along the way, I also launched my first online store, combining my professional work with my passion for creating my own pieces. Finally, in 2016, I decided to dedicate myself to it full-time. And little by little, solder by solder, I built my own little brand. My jewellery is entirely handmade and reflects my personality: minimal yet refined.
This is my work, my passion, and what I do best.
HOW IT'S MADE
Every piece of jewellery begins with an inspiration, which soon turns into a sketch and then into a model made of wax or brass.
From this first prototype, a rubber mould is usually created, allowing us to reproduce the original model countless times. This technique is known as lost-wax casting. The wax models are then used to begin the metal casting process. Each piece is then individually hand-finished: filed, soldered, assembled, polished, engraved and hallmarked, to create a truly unique piece of jewellery. Every step is carried out by hand, using traditional techniques that have stood the test of time, even in the age of modern technology. This, to me, is what makes jewellery precious: the craftsmanship behind its creation.
SUSTAINABILITY
All the metals used to create my jewellery are 100% recycled.
Fortunately, metal itself allows us to virtually eliminate waste, as it can be recycled indefinitely.
We keep our stock to a minimum, as most of our pieces are made to order. Should any items remain unsold, they can easily be melted down and transformed into metal that will go on to become new jewellery.
When it comes to packaging, we have made every effort to eliminate plastic, opting instead for cardboard boxes and packaging materials.
All the artisans and suppliers involved in the various stages of production are based between Verona and Vicenza, helping us reduce transportation and its associated environmental impact.
The businesses that collaborate with Âme Jewels are primarily small Italian enterprises. We believe in supporting one another to preserve a long-standing industry rich in history, tradition and charm.