It was way back in mid-sixties when Richard Burton, in typically astute style, surmised Elizabeth Taylor’s burgeoning passion for Bvlgari, claiming, “I introduced Liz to beer, she introduced me to Bvlgari”. In fact, Liz wore an 18 carat emerald brooch by Bvlgari - the only piece of jewellery - that Burton gave her as an engagement present.

‘Bvlgari’ in ancient Roman style is derived from the surname of the company’s Greek founder, Sotirios Voulgaris. Although it made a name for itself with jewellery, today Bulgari is a recognised luxury brand that markets several product lines including watches, handbags, fragrances, accessories and hotels.

Necklaces, bracelets and earrings from Bulgari were characterised in the seventies by instantly recognisable, bold, almost brutal designs, combining large and weighty gold links with black-surfaced steel. Genuine Bulgari items usually have a unique serial number that is registered with the company. Bulgari jewellery design is distinctive and often imitated. Most of all, Bulgari is known for jewellery, like the 1967 gold, emerald, ruby and sapphire necklace worn by Keira Knightley at the Oscars in 2006.

Bulgari watches make up approximately 29 per cent of the company’s total turnover. Bulgari has started developing its own calibres and parts, including highly complicated mechanisms and basic calibres. The Bulgari watch collection comprises lines like Bulgari-Bulgari, Assioma, Rettangolo, Ergon and Diagono.

From the flagship Via Condotti store in Rome, Bulgari has come a long way and at present has over 260 stores all over the world.

As part of the initiatives scheduled for 2009 to celebrate the 125th anniversary of its foundation, Bulgari has chosen to support ‘Rewrite the Future’ campaign of Save the Children, present in over 100 countries around the world.