The shortest distance between two points is a loop

Stepping outside of the Museo Palazzo Bianco in Genoa, I'm left speechless by what I've seen. I spent the day face to face with the work of Rubens, Van Eyck and Caravaggio. Masterpieces every one. The artists crisscrossed and layered brush strokes until they brought life and light to blank canvas. Each final product was nothing short of stunning.

Afterwards, my friend led me to his workshop on via Grimaldi. He wanted to show off his newest trick. If you've never seen a Byzantine chain assembled, it's impressive. There are loops within loops within loops, with each link joined by hand. My friend builds them as a hobby and each one takes him weeks. Luckily, I found a talented jeweler who can work much faster.

Our Byzantine Chain Necklace features a sumptuous rope of gold-fused, .925 sterling silver links. The sturdy strand is capped at both ends and fastens with an easy-open, thick spring-ring clasp. The matching Byzantine Chain Bracelet features the same spectacular construction on a smaller scale. Together or separately, these pieces shine as brightly as the celebrated works of the old masters. The only difference being that instead of hanging on the wall of a Renaissance museum, this work of art belongs on your beloved.