Mens Gem Pendent

Rossella Ugolini grew up surrounded by the Baroque architecture of Rome and regularly helped her father, a mechanic and inventor, with his home projects. From twisting electrical wires to later taking art classes in high school, Ugolini developed a curiosity for shaping objects with her hands. The link between transforming an idea into something real hooked Ugolini deeply, so she dedicated her life to creating Italian-inspired and Italian-made jewelry.

Ugolini acquired her own equipment during her studies at the Academy of Fine Arts and split her time between studying, working evenings and attaining exposure to goldsmiths and labs. She watched the goldsmiths in smoke-filled workshops, occasionally getting a small lesson in how they worked.

Highly conscientious, her pieces are made to give their wearers’ a sense of confidence. Ugolini’s jewelry epitomizes self-assuredness and grace. Along with women who appreciate the luxurious sophistication of her work, Ugolini also attracts a younger generation drawn to her jewelry’s uniqueness and personalization. She has said, “Translating my thoughts, emotions into form is what it is about.”

Ugolini has won several awards, including the 13th International Pearl Exporters Association Special Award and the 1998-99 International Prize for Jewelry Design from Perle Utopia.

On 1stDibs, find a collection of Rossella Ugolini earrings, rings, necklaces and more.

Also called Y necklaces as they are designed to hang a certain way, vintage drop necklaces are striking and adaptable. They can enhance everything from a casual sweater-and-jeans combo to an elegant heels-and-evening-dress pairing.

Adornment is an ancient human practice, with archeologists identifying early jewelry made from bones, claws and shells. As technology has advanced, so too have jewelry designs and the design of necklaces, from the simple to the intricate.

Drop necklaces come from lariat-style necklaces, which are chain necklaces that end in a tassel or pendant. A drop necklace’s design, meanwhile, is long with open ends, and it usually does not have a clasp. It consists of a single chain that wraps around the neck and a centerpiece — sometimes featuring a diamond or pearls — that hangs down to the middle of the chest. Drop necklaces frequently come in lengths from 16 to 20 inches, with the vertical lines making them appear longer than other necklaces of the same length.

Drop necklaces are extremely versatile, able to be worn knotted, draped or looped. They can be chunky statement pieces or thin, minimal designs. The range of drop necklaces that can be found on 1stDibs can accentuate the plunging necklines of modern looks or add flair to a basic ensemble.