The Brazilians secured a 12th Grand Prix crown with a tense 26-24, 17-25, 25-22, 22-25, 15-8 triumph at the Nanjing Olympics Sport Centre.

Tandara Caixeta and Natalia Pereira spearheaded the Brazilian women's success as they each racked up 22 points in a thrilling contest in the Chinese city.

Paola Egonu was once again the star of the show as she top-scored with 29 points, although her efforts proved to be in vain as Italy fell to an agonising defeat.

It was the third time Italy had reached the World Grand Prix final and they have had to settle for silver on each occasion after suffering defeat to Brazil in 2004 and 2005.

Brazil's triumph came on the same day as compatriots Evandro Goncalves and Andre Loyola lifted the men's trophy at the Beach Volleyball World Championships in Vienna.

Brazil fought hard to level the score at 24-all in the first set of the final against Italy before they won the successive points they needed to edge in front.

Italy responded by restoring parity in the second before the topsy-turvy nature of the match continued when Brazil claimed the third set.

The Italians showed their fighting qualities once more to draw level in the fourth but their challenge ran out of steam in the fifth as Brazil proved too strong on their way to a record 19th World Grand Prix title.

Serbia were the winners of the bronze medal as they beat Olympic champions and hosts China 25-22, 20-25, 25-23, 25-21.