Columnist Muriel Stevens: Bigger Bulgari a jewel

In just a short time, the Bulgari jewelry shop in the Forum Shops at Caesars has made its mark in Las Vegas. For more than 100 years, the illustrious Bulgari family has created exquisite jewelry for an international clientele.

The arrival of a Bulgari shop at the Forum is more proof of how cosmopolitan our city was becoming. Bulgari shops are found in the great cities of the world. It was evident from the successful opening of the first store in June 1993 that more space would be needed.

"There is a good chemistry between Bulgari and Las Vegas," said Umberto Binetti, the general manager of the Las Vegas Bulgari shop.

I had arrived early to the grand reopening party Feb. 17 so that I could see all of the new merchandise. With this much larger space, Bulgari is able to offer many more items.

Of course, the jewelry is its raison d'etre -- reason for being. The exquisite designs are exclusively the company's, created by its own artists. Each piece is executed with the artistry and skill that have become synonymous with the Bulgari name.

When I commented on a dazzling jeweled necklace in a separate display case, Binetti responded, "What's kept Bulgari at the forefront for more than a century is the ability to create distinctive designs that transcend time." That same skill and pride enrich all of the Bulgari products. With the gracious Binetti as my guide, I toured the store.

Scarves are displayed on the walls like works of art, which they are; the men's ties are displayed like jewels. Some are part of the recently introduced Tribale collection of scarves, chiffon wraps and ties that includes 25 designs. Some are ethereal, some are mystical: Fragments of a primitive painting on a cliff and footprints left behind on a savanna are just a few.

And, Bulgari has just introduced its new home collection, Home Designs, in a partnership with Rosenthal, one of the most prestigious tableware manufacturers in the world. Included are porcelain, silver flatware, crystal stemware, barware and giftware.

The approximately 200 items that make up the Home Design collection will be available in several Bulgari stores and at authorized Rosenthal locations in the spring. A selection will be available at the Forum store.

Just recently, Bulgari introduced its first exclusive line for Petits et Mamans, a bath and fragrance line dedicated to babies and mothers.

Tea (chamomile) is the key ingredient, as it is in other Bulgari fragrances, along with peach and lily extracts. All of the bath products and the lightly scented fragrance are alcohol-free, allergy-tested and do not contain lanolin or any ingredients of animal origin.

I gave one of the charming gift packages as a shower gift and the mother-to-be was delighted. Even for babies, the Bulgari name has cachet.

Bulgari has expanded its leather goods collection with elegant handbags and many small accessories that are affordable.

Expansion is always a sign that a business is thriving. How successful is the Bulgari store? "Beyond our wildest expectations," Binetti said.

He then extended an invitation to "all Las Vegans. Please know that you are welcome to visit us at any time; our doors are open to everyone."

And they are. The gorgeous doors are no longer kept shut during business hours.

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