Florence Jewelry: Discover the Artistry of Angela Caputi

If you’re seeking exquisite craftsmanship and timeless Italian design, Florence is a must-visit destination for art, history, and artisan treasures. Among the city’s most revered artisans is Angela Caputi, a name synonymous with bold, vibrant jewelry that transcends fashion and enters the realm of fine art. Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring Angela Caputi’s workshop in Florence with my daughter, and the experience was one of the highlights of our visit. Let me take you behind the scenes into the world of Florence jewelry and introduce you to this incredible artisan.

Florence jewelry: at the artisan studio of Angela Caputi

A Weekend of Florentine Artistry

Florence, just a short 1-hour-and-15-minute train ride from Rome, is often synonymous with Renaissance art and historic landmarks. While the city’s museums and architecture are unmatched, this trip was different. It was about pure pleasure: strolling Florence’s enchanting streets, savoring delectable cuisine, and celebrating the beauty of Florence jewelry and Italian artisanship. The festive holiday season only added to the magic, with enchanting decorations and the scents of handcrafted leather filling the air.

One artisan who stands out among Florence’s creative minds is Angela Caputi, whose bold jewelry designs have become beloved worldwide. My first encounter with Angela happened in Rome, at her boutique managed by her daughter, Maddalena. That day, I purchased two stunning necklaces and immediately knew I had to visit her flagship workshop in Florence to see where the magic happens. Florence jewelry truly comes alive in her workshop.

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Who Is Angela Caputi?

Angela Caputi is not just a jewelry designer—she is an artisan in every sense of the word. Now in her 80s, Angela remains full of energy and deeply dedicated to her craft. She cherishes her identity as an artisan, a role she proudly upholds alongside her family. The nickname her father gave her, "Giuggiù," forms part of her brand name, a touching tribute to her roots.

Angela began her journey in the 1950s as a teacher and a young widow with two small children. To support her family, she turned to jewelry design. Initially working with Murano glass beads, she later transitioned to resin, a material that allows her to craft bold yet lightweight pieces in stunning colors and shapes. Her work celebrates feminine pride, individuality, and the joy of creativity. Florence jewelry has been forever enriched by her innovative approach.

Angela’s flagship boutique is located on Via Santo Spirito 58R in Florence, inside the historic Palazzetto Medici, a 17th-century architectural marvel that provides the perfect backdrop for her creations.

Inside the Workshop: Where Creativity Comes to Life

During our visit to the Florence boutique, we were treated to an unforgettable behind-the-scenes tour. Angela’s team of artisans, almost all women, meticulously craft each piece using traditional Florentine techniques. The workshop is a treasure trove of over 14,000 resin components – labeled coral branches, gold seashells, pink flowers, and more. These building blocks are transformed into necklaces, earrings, pins, and bracelets that are as bold as they are elegant. Each piece exemplifies the beauty and uniqueness of Florence jewelry.

Angela’s approach to design is entirely hands-on and spontaneous. She doesn’t rely on sketches or pre-planned designs; instead, her creativity flows directly through her hands as she assembles beads, stars, dice, and diamonds into unique compositions. Her pieces can elevate cocktail attire or add flair to professional wear, always serving as wardrobe protagonists. Florence jewelry has rarely felt as alive and vibrant as in Angela’s creations.

Florence jewelry by Angela Caputi — Elements that go into Angela Caputi jewelry

A Tradition of Feminine Empowerment

Angela’s work is deeply rooted in empowering women. For nearly 50 years—a milestone her brand will celebrate in 2025—Angela has stayed true to her vision of creating jewelry that embodies shared values, artistry, and social commitment. Her team includes a dynamic group of women artisans, though one man is part of their ranks.

Angela’s pieces are beloved worldwide, including in the United States, where they are worn as bold statements of individuality and style. They are timeless, distinctive, and unapologetically vibrant—often featuring bold colors or striking contrasts like purple, black, and white. This unique style sets her apart in the world of Florence jewelry.

Angela Caputi’s Impact on Art and Culture through her Florence Jewelry

Angela’s jewelry is more than just adornment; it is art. Her work has been showcased in prestigious institutions, including:

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York
The Galleria della Moda e del Costume at Palazzo Pitti in Florence
The Museo degli Argenti in Florence

Angela’s creations have also appeared in pop culture, gracing the runways and featuring on the 80s television series Dynasty. Her influence on contemporary design was recently celebrated in a New York Times article and at a retrospective exhibition in New York’s Italian Cultural Institute. Her work is a cornerstone of Florence jewelry, blending art, culture, and bold design.

Elements that go into Angela Caputi jewelry

Iconic Collections and Timeless Designs of Florence Jewelry

Angela’s collections draw inspiration from everyday life, nature, and philosophical concepts. Recent themes include:

The Cosmo Collection: Geometric designs symbolizing universal harmony, featuring black, brown, and gold hues.
Holiday Collections: Whimsical seasonal designs like resin Christmas trees, gingerbread cookies, and reindeer.
The Cornicello: A lucky red horn pendant rooted in Mediterranean tradition, always given as a gift for its protective charm.

Each piece tells a story, combining tradition with innovation. Angela’s designs mimic natural materials like coral, turquoise, and jade, offering vibrant colors and intricate textures that blur the line between fine and faux jewelry. This artistry secures her place as a visionary in Florence jewelry.

The Historic Setting: Palazzetto Medici

Angela’s flagship boutique is housed in the Palazzetto Medici, a stunning 17th-century building that has been recognized as a National Artistic Heritage site. The Medici coat of arms adorns the façade, and the structure boasts beautiful architectural details, including Ionic pilasters, kneeling windows, and a striking harpy keystone.

Visitors to the boutique step into a space where history and artistry converge, offering a glimpse into Angela’s creative process. The boutique’s historic setting reflects Florence’s rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of Florence jewelry.

Plan Your Visit to Angela Caputi’s Florence Jewelry Workshop

If you’re visiting Florence, Angela Caputi’s boutique on Via Santo Spirito is an essential stop. Here, you can witness firsthand the passion, craftsmanship, and artistry behind each piece. Angela’s work celebrates the enduring beauty of Italian design, blending history, innovation, and feminine empowerment into each creation. Her jewelry represents the very essence of Florence jewelry.

While Angela has resisted selling her jewelry online to maintain a personal connection with her clients, you can find her boutiques in Rome, Milan, and Florence. So, make Florence a destination and immerse yourself in the art of Angela Caputi’s jewelry.

From bold resin necklaces to timeless statement earrings, Angela Caputi’s work continues to inspire and captivate. Each visit to her workshop is a reminder of the enduring charm of Florence jewelry and the artistry that defines Italian craftsmanship. Don’t miss this extraordinary experience the next time you find yourself in Florence!