It started with something so simple: pick-up sticks. As a child, Tamara remembers playing this classic game and years later, in 1993, remembering its mechanics and clean lines. From here, she found the inspiration to create a bracelet with a similar design. Working with COMOLLI goldsmiths and gemstone experts, Tamara created a bracelet that would come to embody not only the MIKADO collection, but also the philosophy and foundation that would later come to define the TAMARA COMOLLI brand: a playful, colorful approach to fine jewelry .
"I want women of all ages to enjoy fine jewelry every day."
Tamara Comolli
MIKADO 'Sticks'
ESTABLISHED c. 1993
Using heavy, high-quality materials like solid 18K gold and Platinum, the very first MIKADO featured linear 'stick' elements held firmly in place at certain angles. Manufacturing this bracelet was a very technical endeavor — and a reflection of how Tamara herself thinks — but its Japanese-inspired details and the addition of delicate diamonds to the tips meant this bracelet felt artistic and glamorous.
MIKADO 'Classic'
ESTABLISHED c. 1998
One of the first elements to undergo a design overhaul was the bracelet’s round ring clasp. Recognizing the need for a strong logo, Tamara transformed the ring clasp into a water drop shape, which became the trademark symbol of the brand. The drop, based on the love of the fluidity of water and flowing movement of the ocean, helped usher in a new era of the brand’s design, as we see the MIKADO design evolve into the softness of nature. The shapes of the ‘Classic’ bracelet are also softening, providing a more delicate look and added comfort for its wearers.
With the advent of the 'Classic' design, the 'Color Story' was bony Wanting to emphasize the very best of the natural hues of gemstones, Tamara began designing with different combinations of colored stones and shades of gold, giving each piece individuality. In meeting with the many women she met on her world travels, she recognized how these women naturally preferred colors that flattered them. Brunettes fell in love with the warm tones of 'Indian Summer, redheads were drawn to bold 'Candy: `Rainforest' and 'Mandarin; and blondes fell head over heels for the blue/green shades of 'Caribbean'.
MIKADO 'Flamenco'
ESTABLISHED c. 2001
By far the biggest step forward for the MIKADO design, the Flamenco was born out of Tamara's childhood memory: dancing on the sand in Gibraltar and Spain where she grew up. The movement, the freedom, and the joy of flamenco dancing come together in this stunning design, becoming the icon of the brand.
Because choosing the color of your personal flamenco dress was crucial, choosing colors for the gems was very important. Featuring 50 gemstones on each bracelet, the Flamenco design provides a perfect foundation to showcase Color Stories. Paying close attention to style trends and the desirability of certain gemstones, Tamara began launching a new Color Story each year, keeping the Flamenco design fresh and exciting. From the rich deep hues of 'Rainforest' to the soft, feminine feel of 'Powder' to the playful spirit of 'Candy, the TAMARA COMOLLI Color Story became the umbrella under which all other collections have been designed.
The Next Evolution
