The zenith of Italian jewellery opulence, FOPE is a flawless exemplar of a brand that has evolved through the passage of time. With its inception a near century ago in 1929, the brand’s journey comprises an amalgam of honouring its rich heritage and embracing novelty. Seated in the heart of Vincenza, one of Italy’s finest jewellery-making hubs, FOPE draws inspiration from the city’s artistry, reimagining the attribute into designs swathed in stylish grace.
Gaining massive adoration for its signature Novocento Mesh – the 18K soft gold weave – that delivers the perfect touch of sophistication to any outfit, FOPE’s commitment to revolutionising the jewellery scene is manifest. Furthering the brand vision, FOPE introduced the charming Flex’it system which offers flexibility to the gold mesh pieces through weaving tiny gilded springs between each link. These remarkable feats bolstered the brand’s reputation, establishing it as one of the world’s most coveted luxury jewellery labels.
With flagship boutiques in distinct destinations across the globe, FOPE’s maiden appearance in Malaysia was a collaborative effort with its partner SUEN Jewellers. This year, FOPE celebrated a significant milestone: the brand’s first ever standalone flagship boutique within the lavish space of SEIBU, The Exchange TRX. Upon this grand occasion, FirstClasse had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Umberto Cazzola, FOPE’s President and the third-generation of the founding family, where he delved deeper into the brand’s tale and artisanship.
Hi Mr. Umberto, it is a pleasure to be able to interview you. I’d like to begin by wishing congratulations on the unveiling of FOPE’s first standalone flagship boutique in Malaysia. How do you feel about this milestone?
We really feel thrilled by this great achievement. We are very proud of our flagship store in Kuala Lumpur, a city renowned for its charm and its growing importance in the international scenery. This is, as you said, the first standalone boutique, but it’s the second space we have in Kuala Lumpur after we opened the first FOPE room together with our partner SUEN during the pandemic years in 2020. This flagship boutique is an expression of FOPE’s success in Malaysia and an affirmation of the over a decade-long relationship with our partner that continues to thrive.
FOPE is a renowned hallmark of Italian luxury jewellery. Beginning as a goldsmith workshop opened by your grandfather in 1929 and eventually evolving into a jewellery brand, how has FOPE grown over the years while remaining true to its craft?
The key is a powerful dialectic of heritage and innovation: the pioneering ideas of the company founder led to a path of constant development and research that naturally evolved into something unique. Here at FOPE, we are constantly striving for renewal while maintaining our deep roots deep in the long tradition of forging gold.
What do you take to be FOPE’s greatest asset that makes it stand out from contemporaries?
The main feature that makes FOPE unique is the Flex’it technology as no other brand is able to produce flexible jewellery entirely and solely using 18-carat gold. We have a clear and consistent stylistic identity that is declined in timeless jewellery. FOPE jewels are not only beautiful and appealing to all genres and ages, they are incredibly comfortable and wearable 24/7.
FOPE is known as the original purveyor of woven, flexible gold – tell us about Flex’it and how it has impacted the brand.
Flex’it is the perfect encounter between creativity and traditional craftsmanship. It evolves from the distinctive Maglia Novecento that defined FOPE unique style in the ‘80s and it marks a revolution in the way bracelets are worn.
Recently, Flex’it technology has been extended to necklaces, rings and even earrings because not only it makes it easier to put on jewellery, it makes it extremely enjoyable to wear and it also provides a perfect fit.
How has the status of FOPE as a family-borne business contributed to the brand’s excellence?
Our family is still the heart and the soul of FOPE. Our values have been passed down from one generation to the next, together with a great passion for both tradition and innovation. Every family member that joined the company has upheld the aesthetic values of Italian craftsmanship while using state of the art technology to earn a place in the international context.
How does the brand ensure that FOPE jewellery reflects excellent craftmanship and high quality?
Our factory, in the very heart of Vicenza, is equipped with cutting-edge machinery, paired with the greatest care of our expert artisans. Our most advanced technological instruments are crucial for developing our production techniques and for crafting jewellery that is well-finished in every detail. With the direct supervision of the entire production chain, we make sure that each FOPE jewel meets the highest quality standards.
Furthermore, since 2014, FOPE has been a certified member of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), the international non-profit body that sets ethical standards for the entire jewellery supply chain.
FOPE recently revealed a groundbreaking partnership with the sensational Jennifer Lopez. How did this connection come about and why was the Eka MiaLuce collection specially chosen?
This collaboration has really been a unique opportunity for us and it’s the result of a great team work. It has been a true testament to how the innovation and creativity that define our brand combine perfectly with the iconic style of leading figures in the entertainment and fashion industries. The feminine and beautiful Eka MiaLuce is one of our top range collections so it was a natural choice for such a talented performer.
What is your favourite collection from FOPE, and why?
It is a very difficult question. Each collection is dear to my heart but, of course, each new creation brings a great deal of excitement.
What does the future hold for FOPE?
The sky is the limit! Since 1929 we have pursued innovation and we will tirelessly continue to look into the future. After all, being able to reinvent oneself is a crucial skill if you want to keep up with the times and offer a modern and captivating product.
Images by FOPE.