Autore: The New ‘Mediterranean’ Collection Is a Journey to Its Namesake Locale

April 23, 2019

By Katerina Perez

5 min read

Autore’s Founder Rosario Autore is a world leader in the production of pearl jewellery, and challenging the traditional concepts of pearl design, with more than 30 years experience within the pearling industry. Apart from the conventional Autore pearl strings and classic studs, pendants and bracelets; you will also find many creations whose design was dictated by a concept, and not by the hero material of the pearl itself. For example: in September 2019, the company will present a new eclectic collection that challenges our perception of pearl jewellery: ‘Mediterranean’.

This new collection combines approximately 30 designs of necklaces, earrings and bracelets, and pieces designed in several pearl shade variations. The pearl exploration does not stop there: by the time of the official debut, further new pieces will be added to the collection – owing to the fact that the inspiration for this project is unusually extensive and interesting. The ‘Mediterranean’ collection is a tribute to various aspects of history, architecture and nature; whilst also redefining the shapes, styles and design motifs in modern jewellery. Each year, Autore releases collections inspired by either architecture or nature – but in 2019 – for the first time the decision was made to combine both elements in the ‘Mediterranean’ collection. 

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection necklace with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection necklace with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

 Katerina Perez wearing Autore 'Mediterranean' collection earrings, necklace, ring and bracelet, all with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

Katerina Perez wearing Autore 'Mediterranean' collection earrings, necklace, ring and bracelet, all with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

 Autore 'Mediterranean' collection ring and bracelet with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection ring and bracelet with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

In order to realise such a large-scale idea, the design team had to do a tremendous amount of work – in fact, the collection was in development for 12 months! First of all, the team had to study various aspects of the wildlife that lives in the Tyrrhenian Sea, a part of the Mediterranean Sea off the west coast of Italy, as well as the bold colours of Capri, an Italian island in the Gulf of Naples.

Katerina Perez wearing Autore sautoir necklace with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

Katerina Perez wearing Autore sautoir necklace with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

Much attention was also paid to ancient architecture, techniques and symbols of the Roman Empire. Examples of this are the Roman coin – symbolic of wealth – and represented in the collection as earrings, as a pendant, and as a necklace; whereas the bee is a symbol of the underworld, fertility, the mediation between the divine and mortal worlds, good and evil; the Hercules knot is a symbol of love and marriage – which is often seen in jewellery and has become a part of wedding attire. The architecture of the Pantheon – the ancient temple of all the ancient Roman gods and the embodiment of the immensity of the Roman Empire – had a strong influence on the design direction of Autore’s latest jewellery line.

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection pendant necklace and ring with diamonds, South Sea pearls and lapis lazuli in 18k yellow gold

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection pendant necklace and ring with diamonds, South Sea pearls and lapis lazuli in 18k yellow gold

The choice of materials for the collection is also deeply symbolic: the main component is – of course – the pearl: personifying perfection, wisdom, purity, loyalty and modesty, wealth and prestige. In ancient Rome, the pearl was a symbol of nobility and high standing in society, because only nobles were allowed to wear them. Currently, Autore owns and operates 10 pearl farms in Australia and Indonesia, meaning that only the best specimens of pearls are included in the collection. The most impressive pearl – measuring 19mm – will be presented on a necklace which is still in production.

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection chandelier earrings with diamonds, rubies and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection chandelier earrings with diamonds, rubies and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

The most complicated item in the collection to make was a necklace with a mosaic motif comprising 46 South Sea pearls. It was incredibly difficult to create, as all the pearls had to match in shape, size, colour, variety and shade, which also takes a lot of time. – Marketing Director Ruby Autore, daughter of the company’s Founder Rosario Autore

To complement the enigmatic lustre of the pearl, precious stones are dappled throughout the collection – again with an eye to their symbolism. It has long been believed that emeralds protect against infidelity and danger, improve memory and intelligence; diamonds are stones of victors; turquoise heals, bringing happiness and good luck; lapis lazuli is characterised by cleansing and healing properties, and also contributes to enlightenment.

Autore 'Coral' drop earrings with diamonds, yellow and orange sapphires and South Sea pearls in 18k yellow gold

Autore 'Coral' drop earrings with diamonds, yellow and orange sapphires and South Sea pearls in 18k yellow gold

 Autore 'Coral' necklace with diamonds, purple and pink sapphires and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

Autore 'Coral' necklace with diamonds, purple and pink sapphires and South Sea pearls in 18k white gold

 Autore 'Timeless' ring with diamonds, violet sapphires and a South Sea pearl in 18k white gold

Autore 'Timeless' ring with diamonds, violet sapphires and a South Sea pearl in 18k white gold

 Autore 'Rose Cut' earrings with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k rose gold

Autore 'Rose Cut' earrings with diamonds and South Sea pearls in 18k rose gold

 Autore sautoir with Tahitian pearls and diamonds in 18k white gold

Autore sautoir with Tahitian pearls and diamonds in 18k white gold

 Autore 'Mediterranean' collection cocktail ring with diamonds, South Sea pearls and lapis lazuli in 18k yellow gold

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection cocktail ring with diamonds, South Sea pearls and lapis lazuli in 18k yellow gold

 Autore 'Mediterranean' collection cocktail ring with diamonds, South Sea pearls and lapis lazuli in 18k white gold

Autore 'Mediterranean' collection cocktail ring with diamonds, South Sea pearls and lapis lazuli in 18k white gold

The jewellery showcased in this article is only part of the extensive collection – I decided to talk about these now so that you can excitedly anticipate the official presentation of the collection in September 2019. Autore is also preparing several high jewellery pieces specially for this presentation, which I will share with you in the upcoming months.

Stenzhorn: The New ‘Belle’ Collection Is a Call to Protect the Natural World

continue reading

Verified in Vegas: The Biggest Jewellery Trends of the Couture Show 2025

The Couture Show presents a curated view of the best in craftsmanship, design, fresh ideas and originality, which is why it’s such a vital place to forecast the ‘next big thing’. Here’s what I have gleaned from this year’s State-side events

by Sarah Jordan

Instant Charm: Celebrating New Creations with Karina Choudhrie Jewels

Let's take a closer look at the latest pieces that have emerged from Karina's incredible imagination…

by Katerina Perez

Key Facts About Gold: An Ancient Symbol of Power and Luxury

In an age where digital currencies rise and fall, gold remains a universal symbol of stability, beauty, and lasting worth. It is worn on the skin, locked in vaults, and passed down through generations as a living legacy.

by Hirshi Sujanti

Little Legends: The History and Power of Pinky Rings

Pinky rings have long carried cultural weight - from Ancient Mesopotamian seals to Egyptian signets and Japanese kamon heirlooms. Today, the style is experiencing a resurgence, thanks to contemporary designers and a growing list of high-profile wearers, including Meghan Markle, Bruno Mars, Rihanna, Victoria Beckham, Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski

by Joshua Hendren

Forever in Bloom: The Timeless Charm of Flowers in Jewellery

Flowers may fade in a vase, but flowers in jewellery—they bloom eternally

by Hirshi Sujanti

Double Vision: The Art and Allure of Reversible Jewellery

With versatility driving today’s jewellery trends, reversible designs are enjoying a quiet resurgence. From transformable lockets to rotating rings and earrings that change with a flip, these reversible jewellery creations reflect a growing desire for multi-dimensional design.

by Joshua Hendren

Coloured Diamonds: Why They’re Rare, Valuable and Incredibly Collectible

In the world of diamonds, white may be the standard, but colour is where the magic really happens. From blush pinks and oceanic blues to canary yellows and rare violets, coloured diamonds are nature's most extravagant anomaly

by Claire Roberts

Jewellery Manifesto: Tracing Three Pivotal Decades with Pomellato Collezione 1967

With Collezione 1967, Pomellato is presenting its ‘Jewellery Manifesto’ through 75 pieces, each inspired by one of three revolutionary decades in its creative history: the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. Let’s take a closer look at the Maison’s artistic signatures, reinvented for a new generation of high jewellery lovers… 

by Sarah Jordan

Pink City Style: The Best-Selling Reversible Jewels of Gyan Jaipur

I would like to tell you more about the brand, its origin story, design inspirations and its popular Jaipur and Yami collections

by Katerina Perez

Fabulous Futures: Le Vian Unveils its 2026 Jewellery Trends in Las Vegas

Here's a rundown of what was included this year…

by Sarah Jordan

Exceptional Splendour: Jaipur Gems Celebrates 50 Years with Abu Dhabi Opening and New High Jewels 

Let me take you on a behind-the-scenes tour of the new Abu Dhabi boutique and share some of my sparkling highlights

by Katerina Perez

Radiating Confidence: The Mother-Daughter Energy Behind Growing Brand Aponine

As one of this year’s Couture show debutants, Turkish brand Aponine impressed me with its blend of colourful creativity, timeless elegance, and stylish femininity. Let’s take a closer look…

by Katerina Perez

Latest Stories

Add articles and images to your favourites. Just

Epic Evolution:Miseno Launches the Arco Collection to Celebrate a Fabulous Decade

I am pleased to present to you my highlights of the new Arco High Jewellery collection, which was formally showcased to the jewellery world at Couture from June 4-8, 2025

by Katerina Perez

Jewels Katerina Perez Loves

Continue Reading

In Conversation:Discussing Paraiba - The Legacy of a Color

with Vogue Singapore

by Katerina Perez

Jewellery Insights straight to your inbox

Style Guide

By using this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.