Eleonora Federici

Specialized in Jewelry Design.

Eleonora Federici

About Eleonora Federici

Eleonora lives by the inspirational words of Henri Matisse, “creativity takes courage.” Fascinated by the Arts and Nature, she believes that Design can express the beauty of the human soul. But to do so, an artist must be brave and bold enough to show it to the world. This belief began for Eleonora at a very young age. She grew up at “Gioielleria Marinone” (Pavia, Italy), the jewelry store founded by her parents Anna Maria and Daniele in 1980. She spent years surrounded by love and encouragement in an environment rich in inspiration and creativity. There, she learned and improved her skills, and her lifelong passion for precious stones was born. After graduating with honors in Modern Literature with a focus in Modern Art, Eleonora moved to Milan to further pursue her passion for art and jewels. She studied Gemology at the “Istituto Gemmologico Italiano,” of which she is a member. She is also a member of the “Associazione Italiana Gemmologi” (the only Institution recognized by the Italian government.). Her continued curiosity and love for jewelry led her to first learn how to create models by carving the wax by hand, and then to later also acquire bench jewelry skills. In 2021, Eleonora moved to Carlsbad (California, USA) where she completed the Jewelry Design & Technology Program at the world-renowned Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Incorporating the most advanced, cutting-edge technologies in design and manufacturing, Eleonora provides clients with superior technical expertise and practical skills, while also preserving the ties to classic Italian handcrafting traditions. Her designs reflect a beautiful balance of history, craftsmanship and state-of-the art techniques. Eleonora has spent years honing her skills and her artistry has flourished. She has the confidence to boldly express her creativity through her work. She is firmly dedicated to quality and the creation of unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that are true, wearable pieces of art.

  • Winner of 2 A' Design Awards.
  • Specialized in Jewelry Design.
  • Original Design.
  • Creative, Diligent and Innovative.
  • All Designs
  • Jewelry
Kashmir Ring

Kashmir Ring

Jewelry Design

The Hummingbird Single Earring

The Hummingbird Single Earring

Jewelry Design

Good Design Deserves Great Recognition

Nominate Your Work for the A' Design Award.

Sign-Up

Interview with Eleonora Federici

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
My parents used to take me to museums and important Italian cities from a very young age, fostering my early love for art. I always enjoyed painting and drawing, which led me to study Art and Literature at university, where I earned a Master's degree in History of Art with honors. My passion for beauty and art continued to grow, ultimately guiding me to become a gemologist. Through gemstones, I discovered that nature is a profound source of inspiration. From my first days in our family jewelry shop "Gioielleria Marinone" (Pavia, Italy), I’ve been able to express myself by creating unique, high-end pieces for our customers. Yes, I believe I was meant to be a designer since the beginning.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
My family jewelry shop has been in business for 44 years, and always focused on high quality products and design. Offering every kind of service, from repairing and refurbishing old jewels to creating from scratch new ones, I gained through the years a huge experince in designing, blueprinting and manufacturing. That is why I decided to create my own brand Eleonora Federici Jewelry, that focuses on marvellous, unique designs and custom made pieces. Reliability, honesty and high professionalism are the main characteristics of my company.
What is "design" for you?
Design is the ultimate frontier of art, it is what allows people to bring new ideas, objects, and concepts to life. Design is about research, beauty, poetry, emotion, and progress. As a jewelry designer, I strive to make the world a better place by conveying subtle messages through my wearable art pieces. I create jewelry that not only serves as a form of expression but also stands the test of time, carrying with it the memories and legacy of a family for generations.
What was the first thing you designed for a company?
One of my fist pieces was a semi-rigid yellow gold necklace with a cluster of orange, yellow and red briolette cut Sapphires. This piece was uniquely created and was the first of its kind and this style predated the similar collections of a famous Fashion House presented only 10 years later.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
My favorite material is yellow and pink gold. I love both the traditional wax hand carving method and CAD softwares like Rhinoceros 8, Z-brush.
When do you feel the most creative?
When I have an inspiration, and it happens all the time and in any place. I always try to be receptive. Basically, my mind is always open to new sources of inspiration.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
Shape and movement. A piece has always to be elegant and perfect.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
I feel that every jewel I am creating is part of me… like a child who grows up and leaves home…I feel the challenge of achieving perfection, and that makes me enthusiastic and eager to create the next design.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
I feel that every jewel that I have ever made is like a child to me, I feel complete, excited and enthusiastic and truly accomplished.
What makes a design successful?
A successful design is defined by its beauty, wearability, and timelessness.
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
When judging a design, the first aspect I consider is its timelessness—a good design never goes out of fashion. It remains beautiful, wearable, and functional over time. Additionally, balance and elegance are crucial, even in more extreme designs.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
Create new styles that make people live more close to nature and raise awareness of the most important issues for a better world: Peace, respect for ech other, preservation of endangered species, respect for nature. This seems trivial, but if the world continues to be blind to these issues, I don't know if humanity will really have a future.
When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
My single earring "The Hummingbird" has been showcased in several international locations. Now, it is time for my ring "Kashmir" to receive the same recognition. However, I believe the best exhibition is when one of my clients wears them!
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
Inspiration is all around me. My Muses are often gemstones, Nature in general and pieces of Art.
How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
Design has no limits. That is why I don’t want to enclose myself in just one style. I am eclectic. But movement, sensuality and balance are for sure one of the main characteristics of my designs.
What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
Companies should select a designer who is not only eager to create and grow but also aligned with the vision of the brand. It's equally important to give the designer as much creative freedom as possible, as placing too many constraints can stifle creativity.
Can you talk a little about your design process?
The inspiration is like a lightning, then the idea starts developing in my head and I have the 3D vision of the final result. Then I start creating the model following this image, sometimes making some changes in order to obtain a jewel that has to be not just beautiful, but also wearable.
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
The “Pirce” chandelier by the italian brand Artemide, the pendulum clock “La Tour” by L’Epée, a statue by the artist Luca Bossaglia, a portrait of myself by the artist Stefano Bressani.
Can you describe a day in your life?
Milk and coffee with some cookies as soon as I wake up, then I work all day. I go for a run, or do Pilates at least 4 times a week (if possible!). I like cooking in my free time (I am really fond of making pastries), which I usually do during the week-ends. When I can, I go to Tuscany where my father was born, and take long hikes up in the mountains and in the fall, we usually went together searching for mushrooms. Those moments are fundamental for relaxation and they give my brain renewed energy so I can have new ideas for my jewels.
From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
The only negative is that sometimes it is hard to be understood and appreciated. That is why “creativity takes courage”, as H. Matisse said.
What skills are most important for a designer?
Willfulness, scrupulousness, courage and having no boundaries for your imagination.
Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
My mind is my canvas. I use the traditional bench jeweler tools, CAD software (Rhinoceros 8), sculpting software (Z-Brush). I like going directly from the ideas in my mind to the creation of the model.
How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
It depends on the project…sometimes few hours, sometimes weeks or months.
What was your most important job experience?
Everytime I build a new jewel, from the inception throught the all production process...because every time is a journey where you live the birth of your own creation, yopu improven and learn.
What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
Every time I undertake the process of crafting a new piece of jewelry. From its conceptualization to its completion through the production process, each occasion feels like a profound journey, where I witness the birth of my own creation, I improve and learn.
What are your future plans? What is next for you?
I want the world to see my jewels, so I am moving forward to get international Customers.
Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
I like to work alone, but I also like to work with smart, skilled and talented people. I always listen to others, because multiple points of view are always better than one. And you always, always have something to learn from everybody (as my Mother taught me).
Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
Yes, I certainly do...but I would like it to be a surprise for the next design competition!
How can people contact you?
They can contact me through my website eleonorafedericijewelry.com, or through my Instagram account eleonorafedericijewelry. They can also e-mail me at info.efjewelry@gmail.com
Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
I am looking for the opportunity to express myself and I think I could be a great resource for Jewelry Houses who are searching for a Designer eager to create and to make a difference. Whoever is going to choose me, will not regret their choice because I am strong willing, loyal and a meticulous hard worker.

Designer of the Day Interview with Eleonora Federici

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
I've been a gemologist and jewelry designer for nearly 20 years, running my family-owned jewelry store. Since the late 1980s, our shop, "Gioielleria Marinone," gained recognition thanks to my father's keen eye for choosing watch brands that were totally unknown at the time but have since risen to the top. Similarly, my mother's visionary approach to jewelry design foresaw future trends and created unique pieces in collaboration with the best jewelers and now renowned brands. Growing up surrounded by this environment, I inherited my father's and my mother's foresight, instinct and taste. I've been crafting my own pieces and custom-made jewels since the beginning. While I cannot share specific names, my clients include prominent families from Northern Italy, and now new customers from other European countries.
How did you become a designer?
My parents used to take me to museums and important Italian cities since I was very young. My parents have always loved Art and History, and I was lucky enough to be born and live in the country that is the epitome of it in the world. From a young age I had a passion for drawing and painting, which I abandoned for a while during my time at the classical high school, because this course of study was, and still is, the most difficult in Italy. Classical studies helped me not only to appreciate the wonderful history of my country, but also to develop a great willpower, a sense of sacrifice and tenacity. Then I studied Art and Literature at University. My parents had founded the "Marinone" jewelry shop in 1980, and since childhood I have taken part in this world. For me, an Art and Beauty lover, it was almost natural to take up that profession. And I, who have always had a penchant for perfection, could not enter the business without the proper preparation. So I decided to become a gemologist. I studied Gemology at the “Istituto Gemmologico Italiano,” of which I am now a member. Gemstones showed me that Nature can be a huge source of inspiration. Since my first days in my family Jewelry shop I could express myself creating unique, high-end jewels for our Customers. For the last 18 years I have been developing my skills as a goldsmith, and I have learned wax modeling from one of the most talented jewelry modelers in Italy. Finally, I decided to complete my education with an eye on the future by taking a high-level course in CAD and CAM design in jewelry at the Gemological Institute of America: the most prestigious and important gemological institute in the world. This is my background: for me, there is no difference between the intellectual ability to have an idea and the technical and practical ability to execute it. To me, having control over the entire creative and productive process is a sign of great professionalism. I became a designer automatically and naturally, I cannot even call it a choice or a decision. It is something that comes from within and probably has to do with what my parents have taught me since I was a child. I was definitely born to be a designer.
What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?
The process starts with an inspiration, then the idea develops in my head and I have a vision of the end result. Then I start creating the model according to that image: I can sketch the idea on a piece of paper or on the computer with a graphics tablet. Before taking the Jewelry Design & Technology course (at the Gemological Institute of America), I simply modeled the wax with my hands. Now I start creating the model directly on Rhinoceros7 or Z-Brush. I also get beautiful renderings with these amazing tools. Absurdly, I find it easier to create the model directly than draw it: my mind is my canvas. Sometimes I make some changes to get a piece of jewelry that should be not only beautiful but also wearable.
Which emotions do you feel when designing?
The most exciting phase of the process is the initial idea and the first steps I take to start building the model. I feel the challenge of achieving perfection, and that makes me enthusiastic. I feel that each jewel I create is a part of me... like a child growing up and leaving home... When I am done with my work, I feel really satisfied and eager to create the next design. When I create I feel alive, it gives my life a meaning. It's like my soul and brain need it to survive. I think that without the ability to create, I would die.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
I received an education characterized by seriousness, intellectual honesty, and respect for others. The course of study I took as a young person taught me sacrifice, dedication and perfectionism. All of this combined with an innate creativity has, in my opinion, created the necessary blend of qualities to be a great designer. One of the people who influenced me the most was my mother, with whom I worked for many years and who taught me a lot. Then, of course, my cultural background and open-mindedness, which is one of my main characteristics, helped me to develop my style and skills.
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
I have big plans... I want to open my e-commerce website where jewelry and design lovers can buy my unique creations. In my life, I have always dreamed of leaving a legacy to the world. It's time to do that, I have been waiting too long. I want people to be able to remember my name 100 years from now. Am I thinking too big? Probably, but no one knew who Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel was when she started her company... I have a special piece of jewelry in mind for the near future that is made up of different parts that can be put together and taken apart to create several different pieces of jewelry, and that can also be put together to create a wearable object, but that is no longer a piece of jewelry in the strict sense.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
To my fellow designers, artists, and architects, I suggest adhering to a few key principles that have contributed to my success. Firstly, prioritize quality and craftsmanship in every aspect of your work. Attention to detail and dedication to excellence will set you apart. Avoid the trap of complacency by continuously seeking inspiration and pushing your creative boundaries. Embrace criticism as a tool for growth; be open to feedback and constantly strive to improve. Additionally, cultivate strong relationships within the industry; networking and collaboration can lead to valuable opportunities. Remember to stay true to your vision and values, even in the face of challenges or trends. Finally, never stop learning; stay informed about emerging technologies, materials, and design trends to remain relevant in a constantly evolving field.
What is your day to day look like?
Milk and coffee with some cookies as soon as I wake up, then I work all day (in my jewelry shop projecting new models). I go for a run, or do Pilates at least 4 times a week (if possible!). I like cooking in my free time (I am really fond of making pastries), which I usually do during the week-ends. When I can, I go to Tuscany where my father was born, and take long hikes up in the mountains and in the fall, we usually go together searching for mushrooms. Those moments are fundamental for relaxation and they give my brain renewed energy so I can have new ideas for my jewels.
How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?
I do not tend to follow fashion trends, preferring to stick to my own personal style and ideas. But at the same time I think that as an artist I am obviously and unintentionally influenced by everything that happens around me…
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
First of all a good design never goes out of fashion. That means that it will always be beautiful, wearable, useful.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
That’s the easy part: I am so picky and meticulous that it’s ready when it’s perfect.
What is your biggest design work?
The Hummingbird is definitely the project that gave me the biggest satisfaction: not only did it embody exactly what I wanted to represent (symbolize the coexistence of humans and fragile, endangered species), but it had all the characteristics I look for in a jewel. And it won an A 'Design Award! But I also carry another piece in my heart: it is a ring, the model of which I carved with my own hands and which took months to make... It is a continous lace in the form of a dome-shaped ring set with precious stones, hard to explain in words!
Who is your favourite designer?
There are many artists in many fields that have changed the history of art, fashion, architecture, etc. that I admire: Frank Lloyd Wright, Mary Quant, Rinaldo Gavello, Marc Jacobs... and they are not the only ones.
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
My cultural background has a great influence on who I am today and on my designs. Classical studies, the good fortune of living in Italy, a degree in gemology, and a family-owned jewelry shop in business for 42 years have all contributed. Good design is necessary for the progress of society...there is no doubt about it. Design is Art. And Art is progress: history has taught us that. Today's world would have no heritage without the great designers of the past, just think of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello, Brunelleschi, Van Gogh, Matisse, Rodin... and the list is endless!
What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?
Participating in design competitions and awards is essential because you will be challenged to create something new, and your skills, imagination, and technical abilities will be stretched to the limit. You feel the challenge to be the best. Needless to say, it's a great opportunity to be recognized and opens the door to a successful future. I am truly honored and proud to have been chosen as Designer of the Day.

Extended Interview with Eleonora Federici

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
My parents used to take me to museums and important Italian cities since I was very young. My parents have always loved Art and History, and I was lucky enough to be born and live in the country that is the epitome of it in the world. From a young age I had a passion for drawing and painting, which I abandoned for a while during my time at the classical high school, because this course of study was, and still is, the most difficult in Italy. Classical studies helped me to appreciate the wonderful history of my country. Then I studied Art and Literature at University. My parents had founded the "Marinone" jewelry shop in 1980, and since childhood I have taken part in this world. For me, an Art and Beauty lover, it was almost natural to take up that profession. And I, who have always had a penchant for perfection, could not enter the business without the proper preparation. So, I decided to become a gemologist. Gemstones showed me that Nature can be a huge source of inspiration. Since my first days in my family Jewelry shop, I could express myself creating unique, high-end jewels for our customers. For the last 18 years I have been developing my skills as a goldsmith, and I have learned wax modeling from one of the most talented jewelry modelers in Italy. Finally, I decided to complete my education with an eye on the future by taking a high-level course in CAD and CAM design in jewelry at the Gemological Institute of America: the most prestigious and important gemological institute in the world. This is my background: for me, there is no difference between the intellectual ability to have an idea and the technical and practical ability to execute it. To me, having control over the entire creative and productive process is fundamental.
How did you become a designer?
It is a need I have always had to create something new. To be creative (to be a designer) is to feel alive, to give meaning to your life and to be constantly stimulated. I think without the ability to create, I would die. Why did I become a designer? Because I was born a designer.
What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?
I became a designer automatically and naturally, I cannot even call it a choice. It is something that comes from within and probably has to do with what my parents have taught me since I was a child. I was definitely born to be a designer, I don’t think it's something you can learn, let alone be forced to be!
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
I am far from being a legend. To be a legend, you have to create pieces that everyone dreams of, that speak for you, and that when people they see them, they think: "These are Eleonora Federici's jewels!" I think that young designers who want to become a legend must never give up, believe in themselves, work hard and be professional. And above all, do not stop dreaming.
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
A great designer is different from a good designer in that he/she is able to have a recognizable style that stands out and cannot be confused with anything else on the market.
What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?
In my opinion, a good design never goes out of fashion. That means it will always be beautiful, wearable and useful.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
Design is Art. And Art is progress: history has taught us that. Today's world would have no heritage without the great designers of the past, just think of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello, Brunelleschi, Van Gogh, Matisse, Rodin... and the list is endless!
What is your day to day look like?
I would love to design high-end jewelry for one of the big fashion houses like Louis Vuitton or one of the big jewelry houses like De Grisogono. I am sure I can design fascinating collections that convey the soul of the house.
How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?
I have in mind a piece of jewelry that is made up of different parts that can be put together and taken apart to create several different pieces of jewelry, and that can also be put together to create a wearable object, but that is no longer a piece of jewelry in the strict sense.
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
It's hard to say... my parents taught me to be humble, but I think that the secret ingredient is simply talent. And not setting limits to your creativity and imagination.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
There are many artists in many fields that have changed the history of art, fashion, architecture, etc. that I admire: Frank Lloyd Wright, Mary Quant, Rinaldo Gavello, Marc Jacobs... and they are not the only ones.
Who is your favourite designer?
Since I love all my designs, I cannot really choose one over all the others. But "The Hummingbird" has a special meaning for me because this is where I really started to understand what my potential is, and it led me to enter and win an A'Design Award (one of the most prestigious international design awards). It's a great design because it has all the qualities that I think are fundamental to a quality piece of jewelry: the curved and elegant shapes, the color, and the fact that it's unique and inimitable.
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
If I were to share some insights from my journey, it'd start with this: always prioritize top-notch quality and craftsmanship. Paying attention to the details really makes a difference. And don't get too comfortable: keep pushing yourself creatively and seeking new inspiration. Embrace criticism, it is essential for growth. Stay true to yourself, though. Trends come and go, but your unique vision and values are what set you apart. Keep learning, because the design world evolves quickly, so stay curious and keep up with the latest trends. Stay open to feedback and never stop refining your skills.
Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?
I would have definitely stayed in the field of art, I would have had a creative job for sure. For a while in high school I was going to be an architect, then I was going to be an art conservator. Who knows?
What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?
Design is the ultimate frontier of art, it is what enables people to bring forth new ideas, new objects, new concepts. Design is research, beauty, poetry, emotion, progress.
What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?
My greatest supporter was myself. And I think that's the secret of success: you have to believe in yourself. And my family, which has always been proud of me and believed in my abilities and skills.

Stay Updated with Latest Design News

By clicking Sign-Up, you are opting to receive promotional emails from A' Design Awards, World Design Rankings, World Design Consortium and Designers.Org You can update your preferences or unsubscribe any time.

You are now at the right step

Join Designers.org & Start Promoting Your Design Worldwide.

Create an Account