Sarah Hutchings on Jewellery, Italy & Style

Art isn’t something Italians do, it’s who they are. It is woven into their history, fashion, architecture and design. Caring deeply about beauty and detail, these innate qualities inform what they create and even the food they eat and how they dress each day. Sarah Hutchings is drawn to the way this sensibility comes to life in Italian jewellery, where creativity, craftsmanship and emotion are valued in every piece.

She established Auckland’s Orsini Fine Jewellery in the heart of Parnell to bring these special qualities to local clients. For nearly two decades Hutchings has personally selected creations from Italy’s master jewellers, crafted with methods perfected and passed down through generations.

“Beautiful Italian jewellery is defined by the time and care invested in its creation, meticulous attention to detail, and, of course, beautiful design,” says Hutchings of the appeal of Orsini’s selection.

Frequent trips to Italy have helped establish lasting relationships with some of the country’s most respected jewellery houses that hold these qualities at their heart. Those connections are reflected in the boutique’s collection, which includes Pomellato, Marco Bicego, Chantecler, Al Coro and Nanis.

There are bold, sculptural pieces crafted in solid 18K gold. Tactile, sensuous textures hand-embossed and finely hand-engraved using ancient Florentine techniques. There are joyful, colourful gemstones selected for their ample sizes and unique qualities, designed to be clustered together.

INNATE ITALIAN STYLE

Hutchings is particularly inspired by the way Italian women wear rings, necklaces and earrings even in their most casual moments. They exude a sense of style, flair, and class that feels effortless, yet intentional.

It inspires her selections, but she always keeps the lifestyles of her New Zealand clients in mind. Most importantly, she wants her selections to be worn and enjoyed.

“If somebody really loves their jewellery, they’ll wear it a lot; but if they’re not so keen on it, it will just sit in a drawer,” says Hutchings, who has a knack for helping clients style new pieces, even how they work among their existing collections.

After so many years she is quick to recognise pieces that will work. “I can quickly visualise, e.g. ‘this would really suit them’, or ‘they’d suit yellow gold or rose gold’. I’ll just get them to try things on, and sometimes they’ll surprise themselves and fall in love with something unexpected.”

ORIGINAL PIECES

Bespoke jewellery creation is another important facet of Orsini. An experienced designer herself, from day one Hutchings has been creating her own jewellery and pieces for clients. This work now forms a big part of her business.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is bringing a new design to life,” she admits. Hutchings begins the process by considering the beauty of each special stone, working from her stunning Italian-influenced Auckland atelier, designed by Kanat Studio. For a client commission, an in-depth consultation is followed by concept art and then physical prototypes, before the piece is brought to life by an in-house jeweller.

Often this includes re-working existing sentimental or those seldom-worn pieces, something she delights in. “People will come in with diamonds that they have owned for years but don’t reach for. I can repurpose them into something that they’ll put on all the time and really love.”

Her original designs are inspired by her regular trips to Italy, where she finds inspiration everywhere. “It may be an elegant archway, or intricate window details, fountains, beautiful stonework, proportions, colours and patterns,” she reflects, bringing new ideas home with her each time.

Every journey is a reminder that luxury is found in timeless beauty, artistry and creating something that continues to be treasured. “People are craving authenticity, they want pieces that actually mean something. True fine jewellery doesn’t go out of fashion. You keep it, you have emotions connected to it, it’s gifted to you, it’s special. It’s not disposable, you pass it on.”

Hutchings believes each piece should be personal: “A reflection of your style, your journey and the moments that matter to you.”

LA DOLCE VITA

Hutchings regularly visits Italy to attend international jewellery fair Vicenzaoro, as well as meet with suppliers, many of whom have become like family. As a result she is an invaluable reference for where to go, what to see and importantly, what to eat in cities such as Milan and Venice. “My favourite area is Brera,” shares Hutchings of her preferred way to spend a Milan day. “It has all the beauty, fashion and elegance of the central city, but it is less about monuments and big flagship stores and much more about atmosphere. In some ways, it reminds me a little of Parnell!”

She loves the combination of narrow cobbled streets, beautiful old apartment buildings, hidden courtyards, balconies, greenery and gorgeous shopfronts. “Via Madonnina, Via Fiori Chiari and Via Fiori Oscuri are particularly lovely to wander around. There is also the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s great art galleries, as well as the beautiful Orto Botanico (botanical garden).”

She says late afternoon and early evenings are a delight. “The streets come alive for aperitivo, with tables spilling outside, beautifully dressed locals, a Campari or glass of Franciacorta, and plenty of people watching.”

CITY SECRETS

Hutchings visits Milan at different times of the year, stopping by favourite haunts such as Langosteria (top and bottom right), new openings locals are talking about and leafy spots like Brera Botanical Garden (bottom left).

Written by Megan Bedford