Today we’d like to introduce you to Paula Innocenti
Hi Paula, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Founded by Paula Innocenti, Something Vintage Jewelry (SVJ) began with her deep passion for vintage costume jewelry, sparked by the inheritance of several stunning pieces.
This love for collecting jewels has since grown into an extraordinary archive of long-lost treasures, ready to be shared with you and future generations.
At SVJ, our mission is to celebrate the beauty, history, and craftsmanship passed down through generations of fine jewelers. We are dedicated to helping people express their unique creative selves through the timeless art of fashion and adornment. The journey began with an inheritance of a single necklace by the designer Henry Bogoff. Since then, the collection has expanded to showcase mid-20th century jewelry, with a special focus on select brands from the 1940s and 1980s.
Based in Los Angeles, our small team curates pieces that reflect the craftsmanship, imagination, and timeless allure created by renowned designers from the 1930s onward. We believe these vintage pieces, each with its own rich history, are deserving of both revival and appreciation.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I began collecting in 2015 and expanded the team by adding two helpers in 2018. In 2019, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, we had to pause operations and shift our focus from a jewelry rental business to sales. With a large inventory on hand, it has been challenging to get everything priced and ready for sale. Although we have a small team, we are strategically onboarding reliable new members to help scale the business.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I began my career in accounting, which eventually transitioned into commercial real estate, where I spent several years working for the largest multifamily firm in the country. Eventually, I decided to embrace my creative passion, which led me to start Something Vintage Jewelry (SVJ). Along the way, I’ve navigated various challenges, but I focus on resilience and determination.
At SVJ, we specialize in one-of-a-kind vintage costume jewelry that captures the timeless elegance and craftsmanship reminiscent of Cartier or Harry Winston—without the high price tag. Our unique pieces are designed to spark conversations and empower every wearer to feel like the hero or heroine of their own story.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is of my first job when I was just 7 years old. I was absolutely crazy about horses and desperately wanted to learn how to ride. I asked my parents if I could take riding lessons, which they could easily afford since they were already paying for tap and ballet lessons—neither of which interested me at all.
Hoping to dissuade me, they told me I would need to get a job to pay for the lessons. Undeterred, I set out to find employment. I convinced a woman who owned horses to let me clean her house in exchange for learning about horses.
I told her I might not do a perfect job, but I would try my best. To my delight, she agreed.
The look on my parents’ faces when I proudly announced that I had found a job was priceless.
Pricing:
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Contact Info:
- Website: https://somethingvintagejewelry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/svj.shoppe/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/somethingvintagejewelry
Image Credits
I own all the images.
