Vintage Sabbadini 18K Yellow and White Gold Necklace with Diamonds

For nearly a century, Sabbadini of Milan has produced top-of-the-line diamond and other gemstone jewelry. The Italian company’s signature creativity makes its products unmistakable. From lavish brooches — encrusted with tourmaline, onyx and diamonds — to simple gold bracelets, each piece is an imaginative work of splendor.

In the 1940s, diamond importer Alberto Esquenazi moved from Spain to Milan, where he partnered with his son-in-law Bruno Sabbadini to create the Sabbadini brand, headed by Bruno. They worked together to trade in quality gemstones, with a special emphasis on emeralds and rubies. The company saw its great success as it worked with Italian manufacturers to produce jewelry crafted in traditional and Renaissance styles.

Bruno brought up his son, Alberto, in the business, and by the 1960s, Alberto was managing the company alongside his father. While Bruno was a traditionalist, Alberto enjoyed experimentation, but both placed the highest value on continuity, creativity and credibility, which were the pillars of the company’s mission. In 1967, Sabbadini stepped down as the head of the company and gave the reins to his son.

Alberto Sabbadini moved its concepts in a new direction, incorporating a love of precious stones and an experimental approach. He often collaborated with his wife, Stefania, relying on her unique sense of style to help move the company forward. In the 1980s, Sabbadini designed the Bee brooch for Stefania. The bee soon became the company’s trademark icon, adorning several pieces in a wide array of presentations, from sapphire Baby Bee earrings to diamond Bee bracelets. 

During the 1990s, Alberto and Stefania invited their oldest son, Pierandrea, to take on a substantial leadership role. The Sabbadini brand subsequently was infused with fresh creativity that reflected the sensibilities of the new millennium. Alberto and Stefania later invited their daughter, Micol, to work as a brand ambassador and a creative consultant.

Sabbadini continues to craft exquisite jewelry out of Milan, using only the highest-quality gemstones and precious metals. The company carries with it an enduring vision of creating distinguished works that can be handed down for generations.

On 1stDibs, explore the brilliant craft of Sabbadini rings, necklaces, earrings and more.