Today we speak to the artistically talented Lisi Fracchia, a former Argentine headmistress who retrained to become a leading international jewellery designer. Her clients span Royals, celebrities and plenty of INC members! An active board member of the Instituto Gemológico Español, Lisi promotes gemmology all over Latin America. Her creations are a frequent fixture in Vogue, Elle, Hola and on many TV programmes. She is also a regular at all the key international jewellery fairs and has won many awards. In addition, Lisi is also both a peer and mentor for many designers and has even translated 5 books on gems from Portuguese to Spanish and English. Whether you’re Queen Letizia or Susannah Grant….we can all own some of Lisi´s magic. Recently returned from dressing celebrities at the Venice Carnival, Lisi tells us how INC launched her sparkling career!
What skills as a previous head mistress of a bilingual school in a Patagonia did you find useful as a jewellery designer?
Quite a few! Leadership and organizational abilities are crucial in managing a design studio and dealing with artisans and clients. Additionally, educational settings foster creativity and adaptability; essential qualities in innovative jewellery design. My penchant for drawing meant I was often asked to design all the posters for school events!
Lisi has a keen eye
Why did you decide to study a second degree at the Gemmology Institute in Madrid on your return from living in Brazil?
I really wanted to pursue my passion for gemstones and become qualified in that field from a reputable organisation. Their flexibility in allowing toddler daughter to attend lectures with me meant I could combine motherhood with my professional career.
How did INC kickstart your career?
The International Newcomers Club (INC) played a pivotal role in launching my career by providing a supportive network and a platform to showcase my designs. The connections and friendships formed within the INC community opened doors to collaborations and opportunities that significantly boosted my career. I will always be grateful to INC from the bottom of my heart for this.
Eyecatching designs
What is a typical week for you?
A typical week, month…haha is dynamic and multifaceted. It involves designing new pieces, sourcing high-quality gemstones, and liaising with clients to create bespoke jewellery. I also dedicate time to mentoring emerging designers and participating in fashion shows, meetings at the Gemmological Institute or visiting fairs around the world. Plus, I also dedicate time to the business aspect of my bran to maintain smooth operations.
How did it feel to be voted the no. 5 Ambassador for Argentina, just after football heroes like Messi or the model Valeria Mazza?
Following icons like Messi and Valeria Mazza, is an immense honor. It reflects the global appreciation of Argentine talent beyond traditional fields and highlights the cultural significance of jewellery design.
Lisi’s designs are present at many award ceremonies
What part of your job do you enjoy the most?
The most rewarding aspect is the creative process—transforming raw gemstones into pieces that resonate with clients’ emotions and stories. Witnessing the joy and confidence that a bespoke piece brings to someone is truly fulfilling and of course looking seeking out my beautiful gemstones babies…haha
Which pieces are you most proud of?
I take immense pride in the pieces worn by royalty, such as the bespoke earrings that Queen Letizia wore during her state visit to the USA. Or the Argentina- shaped bracelet chosen by Queen Máxima and the brooch made for Queen Sofía with aquamarines, tanzanites and a 45ct sphalerite in 18K yellow gold.
It´s also a huge honour to have made the pieces for Spanish TV celebrity, Anne Igartiburu that she wore for the New Year´s Eve broadcast with Anna Obregon. These creations not only showcase intricate design but also symbolize the trust and recognition bestowed upon my work.
Queen Letizia wears earrings in 18K yellow matt gold with sphalerites, tsavorites and opals
Do you have different pricing tiers?
Yes, I offer a range of pricing tiers to accommodate diverse clientele. From high-end bespoke pieces featuring rare gemstones to more accessible designs, each creation maintains the brand’s commitment to quality and artistry. Starting at 25 euros.
Which stones do you most like to work with?
I have a particular affinity for working with unique and lesser-known gemstones, such as sphalerite, heliodore, tanzanite and morganite. Their distinct colors and properties provide endless inspiration and allow for truly one-of-a-kind designs.
Queen Máxima of Holland wears a silver and 18k gold bracelet from her birth country
What has been the biggest highlight of your career to date?
Awards are a great endorsement of my craftmanship and dedication. I´m particularly proud of the Iberdesigner Award in Madrid in 2014, the Orion Star Award in London in 2020 and the In flux Award in 2022 in Milan and the Global Icon award in 2023 in Dubai.
What or who has most inspired you?
People – their resilience or unique stories and nature itself is always a constant source of inspiration.
And nature’s inherent beauty is a constant source of inspiration.
Lisi’s signature elegance
INC is full of entrepreneurs, what advice would you give them?
Embrace resilience and adaptability. Learn different languages. Keep learning! And never lose sight of your passion!
You are a credit to the industry, what´s next for Lisi Fracchia jewellery?
The future holds exciting prospects, including expanding into new markets and exploring collaborations that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Continued innovation and a commitment to excellence remain at the forefront of the brand’s evolution. We´re always looking forwards!
Actress Laura Ramos from Entrevías TV series
