For Alina Springe, board member and creative soul of the largest Baltic jewellery house, it is more of a return to roots, the closing of a circle. “Our relationship with Czechia is very special,” she explains. “One of our very first partners was a Czech company renowned for its garnet jewellery. And even the name Grenardi itself was inspired by the word garnet.” For her, entering Prague is not merely a strategic move, but a deeply personal matter – a story that began twenty-five years ago and is now finding its continuation here, in the heart of Europe.
Alina Springe is one of those people who set trends in their field while meticulously avoiding looking at what others are doing. She admits that looking at her competitors stifles her creativity and believes it can dull one’s unique edge. Her vision is not born from market analysis, but from deep personal experiences – from travelling, reading, and quiet observation. Her philosophy is to choose things with lasting value. At a time when society is under massive pressure from marketing that suggests what we need and in what quantity, she advocates for the exact opposite, guided by the principle to choose wisely, to enjoy meaningfully, and to leave behind treasures, not waste. In her view, jewellery is a witness to life’s events, a sentiment passed down from one generation to the next.
This personal touch is evident in every detail. In the Prague boutique, the upholstery on the furniture features a cloud motif from one of her own paintings. “Clouds have always inspired me, as every day the sky becomes a unique work of art,” she explains. Just as personal is the story behind one of the jeweller’s own brands, Lilly Spring, created as a tribute to her mother-in-law, Lilija, the founder of the first Grenardi stores. A piece of jewellery then becomes a carrier of legacy, respect, and family history. However, her creativity is not limited to jewellery design. Years ago, she also fell in love with the world of fragrances and studied perfumery in Grasse, driven by an understanding of scent’s unique power to unlock our emotions and memories.
This philosophy is reflected in Grenardi’s portfolio through a careful selection of represented brands. It is not about the biggest names, but the most meaningful ones. The flagship boutique features names such as Damiani, Giorgio Visconti, Cammilli, Nanis, Moraglione 1922, Recarlo, Brumani and Pippo Perez, while right next door visitors can explore the Pasquale Bruni monobrand store. These are all names that embody the highest level of craftsmanship and creativity. “We are true experts in the world of jewellery and we will listen carefully to the specific wishes of the Prague market in order to adapt to them – that is one of our key strengths,” she emphasises. “We also specialise in bespoke commissions. Together with master goldsmiths, we can source any gemstone and transform it into a unique piece according to individual wishes.”
Alina Springe’s influence, however, extends beyond the world of business. In Latvia, she initiated the creation of the charity collection Rotājies, Latvija! (or Adorn, Latvia!) in collaboration with the former president, Vaira Vike-Freiberga. Through this initiative, the company provides long-term support to talented but underprivileged students. She sees this as “proof that jewellery can serve as a bridge between beauty, culture, and social responsibility,” and adds that she is planning similar projects in the Czech Republic.
For her, the client relationship does not end when they leave the boutique. Through the sister brand Goldwork, she ensures that every jewel remains in perfect condition. From cleaning to long-term maintenance, the company offers full aftercare because, “true luxury is about continuity and trust.” This vision is also the foundation for the company’s future plans – Prague is its first step, but certainly not the last. “We see it as our gateway to Central Europe,” she reveals of the company’s ambitions. “Over time, we want to bring Grenardi’s blend of elegance, craftsmanship, and personal service to other key European cities, establishing Grenardi as a trusted name in luxury across the region.”