Gold-plated Silver Filigree Brooch - Orchidea

FILIGREE is an ancestral jewellery technique.  It was practiced by the Egyptians, Etruscans and Greeks, but it was the oriental jewellers from Damascus (Syria) who enjoyed more recognition. Some argue that there are features of this technique in many Inca and Pre-Inca jewellery pieces, but the technique was formally introduced in Peru by the Spaniards during the viceroyalty (16th Century).  It has gradually developed since then and taken characteristics of its own.

Filigree is part of Peru's folk art and is considered the specialty of the jewellers from many cities of the country.  They have perfected and carried on the technique from one generation to the next, as a living cultural heritage recognised by the Peruvian National Culture Institute.

Giuliana Valz-Gen has made this technique one of her main inspirational motifs.  Her designs stand out for their clean stained silver and gold-filled finishes as well as the elegance and exclusivity of each of her jewels.