Tatler sits down with the vice president and third-generation scion of Italy’s renowned Damiani jewellery brand as it opens its first boutique in Hong Kong
Born into a family with a rich history of exquisite craftsmanship, Giorgio Damiani shares the story of a life adorned with gems and the strategic vision behind the brand’s global presence.
From the moment of his earliest memories, the heir to the Damiani jewellery empire was surrounded by the lustre of precious stones and the art of jewellery making. During his visit to Hong Kong, the scion of the Italian high jewellery family delves into the experiences that shaped his passion for the family trade and the strategic decisions that have positioned Damiani boutiques in the world’s most sophisticated markets.
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What was it like growing up surrounded by jewellery, and how did it influence your interest in the field?
I was born in jewellery: we had a family business—my grandfather started the company in 1934— and my father developed that brand. I never really thought of [pursuing another career], because [jewellery] was in my DNA. I have seen the passion [with which] my grandfather, my father and my mother were [working]. It was such a natural choice without any obligation, or any push from my father or my mother; I immediately decided to be part of this world.
Tell us about the strategy behind opening boutiques around the world.
We wanted to [have] our own boutique in the most important markets. We consider Hong Kong as one of them. Hong Kong has always been such a sophisticated market: the taste of the customers is very sophisticated because they were already very well versed [in jewellery]. They have the option to see the most beautiful stones and high jewellery pieces of the world here. We have a fantastic VIP clientele here and they love Damiani because we can do very special pieces for them.
Do you customise pieces for your clients?
Absolutely. And Hong Kong is the biggest market for us for this kind of activity. They want to see something new because they already have a lot of things. So we show them we can be more creative than anyone else. It’s easy for us, as we are the manufacturer, and great for them because they receive a unique piece which is made just for them.
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