The Bulgari Group has reported that its jewellery sales saw an 8.2 per cent increase on the figure recorded over the first quarter of last year.

Its increase in sales came on top of the ten per cent rise that had been produced during the first quarter of 2005.

Jewellery made up 39 per cent of its sales during the first quarter of the year. Total jewellery sales totalled $103 million.

Particularly strong sales figures were recorded in Japan, the Middle East and the Europe sales region, which does not include Italy.

Francesco Trapani, chief executive of the Bulgari Group, said: "The results achieved through this first quarter of the year in all product categories and in all countries make me optimistic also for the forthcoming months and confirm that we are going in the right direction."

Bulgari produces a range of high quality items from a range of materials, including platinum. One platinum necklace worn by actress Jennifer Aniston at the Oscars is currently being exhibited in its boutiques around the world.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd