DelBrenna Jewelry: Generations of Tuscan Craftsmanship in Cortona
The DelBrenna family’s legacy is rooted in a passion for craftsmanship that spans centuries. From its beginnings in 1201, the family has maintained a deep commitment to creating timeless jewelry, blending tradition with contemporary artistry. Each piece crafted by the DelBrenna family is more than just an accessory. It is a story, a work of wearable art that carries with it the essence of Tuscan heritage. In a world often dominated by mass production, DelBrenna stands as a testament to the enduring power of handcrafted excellence.
What truly sets DelBrenna apart is their dedication to meticulous craftsmanship. Each item, from intricate bracelets to sculptural necklaces, is carefully handmade in their Tuscan workshop using time-honored techniques passed down through generations. The family’s iconic chain, for example, continues to be created using a technique developed in 1974, ensuring that every piece embodies both strength and elegance.
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| The main room of the DelBrenna Showroom |
History of the Family with Jewelry Making
The DelBrenna family’s journey in jewelry-making began with Giovanni DelBrenna, a Florentine goldsmith, in 1201. Over the centuries, this tradition was passed from father to son, with each new generation contributing its own innovations to the craft. By the 20th century, Massimo Ghezzi DelBrenna had developed a signature technique for creating the brand’s iconic handmade chains, which became central to the family’s legacy. Massimo's contribution included the development of four distinct chain styles that remain foundational to the brand's identity.
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| The iconic chain of the DelBrenna jewelry created in 1974 |
Sebastian Ghezzi DelBrenna, Massimo’s son, built upon his father’s work, incorporating natural stones, historic coins, and sculptural elements into the designs. This evolution transformed DelBrenna’s creations into contemporary masterpieces that appeal to a global clientele. Today, DelBrenna jewelry continues to be handcrafted with the same dedication to detail, carrying forward the family’s rich history and the spirit of Tuscany.
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| The DelBrenna Boutique in Cortona |
Sebastian and Megan DelBrenna: Building a Brand
In 2003, Sebastian met Megan, an American architecture student studying in Italy, and together they began dreaming about the future of DelBrenna Jewelry. Their vision was to build a brand that honored the family’s rich tradition while providing customers with a unique, personal experience. After marrying in 2006, they opened their first DelBrenna boutique in 2008 in Cortona, a picturesque Tuscan town steeped in history. Located in Piazza della Repubblica, the boutique quickly became a symbol of the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship. Guests of the nearby Monastero di Cortona Hotel & Spa can also view a curated selection of DelBrenna pieces on display.
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| The inner room of DelBrenna Showroom |
The boutique’s success led to the opening of the DelBrenna Showroom in 2013, housed in the ancient wine and oil cellars of the noble Alfieri Venuti family. The centuries-old underground space has become a magical destination where customers can not only admire the jewelry but also learn about the brand’s history, explore the DelBrenna family museum, and see firsthand the artisan techniques behind their creations.
In 2018, DelBrenna expanded its reach beyond Italy by opening a boutique in Kansas City, near Megan’s hometown. This location has allowed the brand to share its Tuscan heritage with a new audience, bringing the magic of Italian craftsmanship to the United States. The Kansas City boutique mirrors the warmth and artistry of the Cortona location, offering a place where customers can explore the brand’s heritage and experience the artistry of DelBrenna firsthand.
Wine Dine Shine: DelBrenna's Exclusive Thursday Event in Cortona
The Wine Dine Shine event hosted by DelBrenna in Cortona takes place every Thursday, beginning in October. For €55, participants enjoy a unique combination of wine tasting, fine dining, and the opportunity to wear DelBrenna jewelry for the evening.
The event kicks off with a complimentary wine tasting at Enoteca Molesini in Piazza della Repubblica, where a guest winery from a different region of Italy presents a selection of wines. Afterward, guests are treated to a gourmet dinner in one of Cortona’s top restaurants, with seasonal dishes paired with wines from the featured winery. Finally, participants can visit DelBrenna’s Showroom or Boutique and borrow a piece of their exquisite jewelry to wear, completing the evening with a touch of elegance.
Be sure to check their schedule and make a reservation in advance at Wine Dine Shine.
DelBrenna Jewelry
Website: https://delbrenna.it/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DelBrennaJewelryCortona/
Cortona Boutique & Emporium: Piazza della Repubblica 12, 52044 Cortona (AR) Italy / Tel: +39 0575 601518
Cortona Showroom Workshop: Vicolo Petrella 17-19, 52044 Cortona (AR) Italy / Tel: +39 0575 630643
Florence Atelier: Borgo Santi Apostoli 45R, 50123 Firenze (FI) Italy / Tel +39 055 2025030
Kansas City USA Boutique: 307 E 55th St, Kansas City, MO 64113 USA / Tel: +01 816 982 9922
