In Italy, craftsmanship is a cherished tradition. But entering the country’s most prestigious trades, such as fine jewelry, has often meant overcoming barriers of exclusivity and tradition. This is starting to change, thanks to Bulgari’s new initiative at one of Italy’s most respected design houses.
At Bulgari’s expanded Manifattura in Valenza, a town famous for goldsmithing, the brand has opened its doors to new opportunities with the launch of Scuola Bvlgari. This training school, created in partnership with Tarì Design School (TADS), is the first Bulgari academy to offer public access to the craft of jewelry-making. While the curriculum centers on teaching the Roman maison’s signature techniques, it also marks a significant shift in who has the chance to shape the future of Italian jewelry.
“We’ve always aimed to create an inclusive learning environment across all levels of the Maison,” says Corinne Le Foll, Bulgari’s newly appointed General Manager of Jewelry. “Gender does not play a role in recruitment, training, or advancement.” Currently, more than half of the employees at the Valenza facility are women, a notable change in an industry historically dominated by male artisanship passed down through generations.
The school not only serves as a gateway for new talent but also sends a message: mastering a craft isn’t about historical privilege—it’s about who has the creativity and vision to take it forward. Le Foll highlights that globally, 62 percent of Bulgari’s managers are women. This includes influential leaders such as Lucia Silvestri, the Jewelry Creative Director, and Mary Katrantzou, the designer behind Bulgari’s trendsetting accessories.
“The Academy is a highly specialized, six-month training program for new employees,” explains Le Foll. “It combines the essential training with teaching the Maison’s most iconic techniques.” This ensures that Bulgari’s heritage is not only preserved but evolves with precision, integrity, and inclusivity.
One such example is Feng Jia, who moved from China to Italy with a clear goal: to refine her skills and take her artistry to the next level. After completing the Bulgari Academy in 2022, Jia found herself with a job and a sense of belonging. “Working with my hands is something I’ve always loved. At Bulgari, there’s a perfect balance between technique and artistry,” she says. “The opportunity to keep learning is truly extraordinary.”
Bulgari is investing in the future of an industry that often holds the past in high regard. The goal is not just to train artisans for one atelier but to create lasting change across the craft world, becoming part of a new movement that honors tradition while carving out space for women to define their own legacy.
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