Gina Ferranti:The Bold And The Beautiful
Graphic and powerful silhouettes that are statement making yet still retain a feminine and elegant classicism describe Gina Ferranti of GiGi Ferranti collections. She launched in 2015 with pieces that combine ultra-modern shapes with unparalleled craftsmanship. Due to this mix, she appeals to a wide age-demographic of women who desire fine jewelry that is unconventional yet can easily work in with the staples they already own. Her Italian heritage also figures into her designs as does her love for her New York City upbringing, from ancient Italian architecture and stained glass windows and the coastline of the Italian Riviera to the graffiti art murals she that have surrounded her growing up.
Graphic and powerful silhouettes that are statement making yet still retain a feminine and elegant classicism describe Gina Ferranti of GiGi Ferranti collections. She launched in 2015 with pieces that combine ultra-modern shapes with unparalleled craftsmanship. Due to this mix, she appeals to a wide age-demographic of women who desire fine jewelry that is unconventional yet can easily work in with the staples they already own. Her Italian heritage also figures into her designs as does her love for her New York City upbringing, from ancient Italian architecture and stained glass windows and the coastline of the Italian Riviera to the graffiti art murals she that have surrounded her growing up.
Gina Ferranti
Lucia diamond hoop earrings
Graffiti Initials with multi-gemstones
Here we speak to Gina about her inspiration, how she got into the jewelry business, and a few of her favorite things
When did you first realize that jewelry made your heart skip a beat?
Pieces Gina’s grandparents brought back from Italy as gifts when Gina was a young girl
“I was six years old. When my grandparents would visit Italy to see the part of our family that still lived there, they would bring back each of their grandchildren a piece of jewelry. They would present it to us after each visit. I was in awe of each of the gifts. As a young girl, I would dress up in my best clothes and wear the jewelry proudly.”
What was the first piece of jewelry you coveted?
The first piece of jewelry I ever bought for myself
“In my early twenties I took my first trip to Italy. I was on the Ponte Vecchio looking in all the beautiful jewelry stores and I came across a diamond puffed heart pendant on a ball chain. I fell in love and purchased it. The fact that it was the first ‘real’ jewelry I bought for myself made it even more special. I will never forget the experience and the piece.”
When did you get into the jewelry business?
“I had owned a high-end clothing and accessories boutique in Brooklyn for many years. My partner and I decided to close when the neighborhood changed. I had been selling some fine jewelry in the shop, which along with fashion, was a true passion of mine. I decided to start courses at GIA in January of 2011 and six months later received my graduate gemologist degree. My first job out of school was with David Yurman.”
What were your first designs for your own collection?
“I launched GiGi Ferranti in 2015 and my first collection consisted of pieces in hexagon patterns made with sterling silver and 18K yellow gold. They were two-tone and very bold in appearance. It was the first attempt at creating the type of jewelry I was drawn to—symmetrical and geometric in shape, yet still feminine and easy to wear.”
How would you describe your aesthetic?
“Fine jewelry that isn’t conventional. My goal is to create piece that are out of the box, with architectural design elements, angles and repetitive lines. Yet the pieces also incorporate diamonds and precious stones, which create a softer side to the more graphic silhouettes.”
Your favorite design from your collection?
“My stacking ring collection and all the variations that have evolved since 2015, which have been many. Still, my favorite is the Lucia Pave Band”
The Lucia Band with diamonds
What pieces are your most draw to for your personal collection?
“I design on a very personal level so my own collection reflects a similar sensibility and I collect and wear a lot of stackable rings.”
A stack of the Lucia bands with diamonds and gemstones
Do you believe that jewelry has a magic to it? and if so how?
“Jewelry can evoke a range of emotions, including joy, love, happiness, and pride. The pieces which are most special to the wearer reminds them of the most significant moments and milestones in their lives. Jewelry is also meant to be passed down through generations, By wearing this jewelry it can connect you to loved ones and take on the energy of all who have worn the jewelry before.”
What is your favorite sentimental piece handed down to you?
Gina’s grandmother’s bracelet that she wears everyday
“There are so many I love but my absolute favorite is an XOXO bracelet that was my grandmothers. I wear it every day. I believe she is my guardian angel.”
The stacking ring is my favorite piece from my collections
