A vintage Weingrill black onyx and diamond dress-set, set with black onyx and a diamond in each plate, in a square shape with cut corners, mounted in 18ct yellow gold, signed Weingrill, stamped 750, with an Italian mark * 15 VR. Please note one stud has been plated white gold, circa 1960.
Carlo Weingrill (b.1856-d.1924) established the company in 1879. He was born in Verona, Italy. At the age of eleven, he began his apprenticeship in a goldsmith’s shop. Upon completing his training at the age of 22, he decided to open his own factory.
Carlo Weingrill’s goal was to make the finest 18ct gold jewels, using the highest quality materials, with exceptional craftsmanship. Every piece was handmade, using traditional artisan techniques, eschewing the use of machines, designed to be worn and enjoyed regularly.
In Italy, a craftsman could become a goldsmith after apprenticing for two years, At Weingrill, apprenticeships lasted seven years.
For Weingrill, gold has always been king of metals for jewellery. Diamonds and coloured gemstones were employed sparingly. From the 1900s to the 1940s, Weingrill was recognised for its curving, Art Nouveau, floral motifs and the geometric shapes of the Art Deco period. These styles inspired pieces designed decades later, with the company’s refusal to embrace current fads instead of gathering inspiration from Weingrill’s original moulds.
The business flourished, and Carlo brought his two sons, Armando and Gastone, into the business. They took over when Carlo died and grew the small artisan concern into a major player in the industry.
The 15 VR mark was originally registered on 8th July, 1935
In time the quality of Weingrill’s jewels would attract the attention of some of the biggest names in 20th century fine jewellery. They made the classic Trinity bangles for Cartier, for Tiffany they made a variety of gold cuffs and bracelets and most famously they created the tubogas bracelets, necklaces and rings for Bulgari, although the invention of the design is ascribed to the French manufacturer Auguste Lion, in 1863
Armando Weingrill died in 1959. The company was then run by Gastone, until his death, in 1977.
The registration was updated on 26th March, 1968, to Weingrill Carlo S.p.A., Via Filopanti 2A, Verona. This information was entered by Gastone Weingrill.
Armando’s daughter, Paola Weingrill, was the next in line to take on the business, becoming chief executive officer. Paola trained her son, Carlofilippo Mensi Weingrill, to assume the reins of the company upon her retirement. Carlofilippo is now leads firm, representing the fourth generation to head the house.
With thanks to Trev. at 925-1000 forum and Wilsons
