HISTORY
A FAMILY LEGACY
Cameo & Beyond was founded in 2015 by Francesco Paolillo and his wife Soraya. The story began fifty years ago, when Francesco’s father, Giovanni, and his mother, Ermelinda, began crafting porcelain cameos. Pursuing excellence and striving for perfection, they achieved international recognition. The fine porcelain cameos were used in the collections of renowned jewellery designers around the world.
With deep roots in this southern Italian jewellery tradition of a cameo carver’s family, Francesco was raised immersed in the cultural richness and folklore of Neapolitan heritage. He developed an instinctive aesthetic for art and beauty. Studying at the Venice School of Art in the mid-eighties, he entered into the world of extravagance and sophistication – art, antiquities, and later vintage jewellery.
The ensuing period saw him acquire decades of international experience in the high jewellery industry, working for prominent brands in New York, London, and Paris. The serendipitous meeting of his spouse, Soraya, fostered an amazing connection over the enthralling nature of creativity.
Originally from Paris, Soraya’s journalistic education gave way to a successful, international career with major high jewellery brands. Not only did her creativity elevate the brands' in-house collections, her keen eye inspired a specialisation in bespoke creations for their clientele. Understanding that the marriage of tradition and modernity are intrinsic to the integrity of the cameo, a natural partnership ensued.
Margherita, Francesco’s sister, looks after the Cameo & Beyond atelier in Venice where the cameos are born. Her expert craftsmanship brings the most complex designs to life, liberating the imagination. The artistry and expertise of cameo-making were passed to Margherita from their father.
We turned to our family heritage and our unique knowledge to create exquisite jewellery pieces that fuse ancient craft with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic.