Roberta’s jewellery career started unexpectedly later on in her life. After a degree in Political Science studying sociology, moving from Italy to Scotland and a career in teaching, Roberta discovered the jewellery world by chance, while playing in a park with her daughter. This brought her to retrain in jewellery and stone setting in Glasgow, London and Florence. Hence Quinta Essenza was born.

Her love of creating jewellery leads her to continuously explore treasured ancient techniques such as hand-engraving and use them in a personalised way. Her teaching experience supports her when delivering workshops to keep the jewellery-making tradition alive.

While she was still studying, Roberta won a Commended Award in Fashion Jewellery (QVC Special Award) by The Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council (GC&DC) known as the Oscar of the Jewellery Industry. Following a commission of medals by Perth Cathedral, Roberta recently entered a medal called “Look after the Land” to the GC&DC’s competition, winning a Bronze Award.

In 2021, Roberta was one of 13 emerging makers selected for Shine 2021 by the Goldsmiths' Centre in London.