Gordon with Fabrizio Torrini, the 25th generation of Torrini Goldsmiths, and Torrini polisher Marco; Torrini Jewelry, Florence, Italy.

This jewelry dynasty has created tiaras for Czarinas, and their best work now rests in museums. The family has a long tradition in gold, and uses centuries-old technique for casting that evokes lush hues and unique textures. It's called "Oro Nativo" or native gold.

• Jacopus Turini started the business in 1369. It is currently located in Florence.
  
• Franco Torrini is the 24th generation owner of Torrini Goldsmiths, Fabrizio Torrini the 25^th generation owner.
  
• The family's most valued possession is its secretive and exclusive "Oro Nativo" manufacturing process, a method of working with gold while retaining its most natural color.
  
• The Torrini museum exhibits four centuries of their work and was curated by auction from private collectors.
  
• Only about 90,000 tons of gold have been taken from the earth in recorded history.
  
• In medieval Europe, alchemists mixed powdered gold into drinks to sooth arthritis.
  
• The three largest exporters of gold in the world are South Africa, the US, and Australia.
  
• Gold Jewelry Price Range:
  • Cerise Necklace, $8,300

  • Robert Lee Morris
    Pebbles Necklace, $3,500

  • Fortunoff
    Textured braid necklace, $395

Torrini Jewelry
Via Ponte a Iozzi, 8/3
50023 Impruneta - FIRENZE
+39 055 209.431
Fabrizio.Torrini@Torrini.it, www.torrini.com

Randi Molofskyhttp;
Torrini Jewelry Expert
Former editor, National Jeweler Magazine
Rmolofsky@hotmail.com

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