BVLGARI Serpenti Viper Necklace

The Metamorphosis

Back in the 1940s, when the supply of precious gems took a dip because of the war, BVLGARI decided to be more creative instead of exuberant. Shaping itself according to the whims of modern times, the Italian jewellers crafted the Serpenti, a coiled bracelet made with no welds or solders. This feat was achieved by the use of a technology called the ‘Tubogas’.

The Tubogas

Piping gasoline was a prevalent issue during the 1880s and to counter that issue, a flexible metal pipe was invented that required no soldering or welds. In the 1940s, this technology was picked up by jewellers, especially BVLGARI. It is the Tubogas that provides the BVLGARI Serpenti with the iconic coiled shape.

The Genesis

Although the Serpenti was launched during the 1940s, it did not gain worldwide popularity up until the 1950s. While shooting the movie ‘Cleopatra’, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor came across the BVLGARI store on Via Dei Condotti, Italy. Impressed by the long line of aesthetically pleasing pieces, Taylor decided to incorporate the Serpenti into her wardrobe. The affection towards the Serpenti was such that the jewellery was heavily featured in the movie ‘Cleopatra’.

The Legacy

Serpents have an ambiguous relationship with humans. For BVLGARI, this relationship was more than sacred. Representing fertility, rebirth, and protection from evil spirits, the Serpenti collection takes inspiration from the theological arena of Roman culture. Available in various forms such as necklaces, rings, and pendants, the Serpenti is an inseparable heritage of BVLGARI.