Roberto, when did you start your apprenticeship?
In 1965, at the age of 16. I failed in high school and my father made me go to work in his workshop. Back then, it was customary to pick up your father’s trade. But I am very proud that Marta decided to follow the same path. We complement each other and we love working together.
How long is Venice’s goldsmithing tradition?
It is as ancient as the city itself. In Venice there is a street called 'Ruga degli Oresi', which is how goldsmiths are called in Venetian dialect. Since Venice has always been a city where different cultures mixed and thrived, it was only natural for us to absorb its essence.
In what way do you reinterpret this tradition?
By adding something new and surprising, like the secret compartment in each of our 'moretti' figures. They contain a mechanism made of minute springs and screws, which are entirely handmade and one-off, like all our production.
Why is your craft endangered?
Because fewer people are willing to pay for an authentic handmade jewel designed and made on commission. Nowadays, customers look for finished products, not realising that only an artisanal piece of jewellery is unique – and also that it is made far better than a branded one.