Paris is undoubtedly the spiritual home of jewellery, as this quartet of new releases from brands all founded in the city attests. Boucheron dates from the 19th century while Chaumet goes back to the 18th. The least well known, Mellerio, is in fact the oldest, with over 400 years of heritage behind it.
While the youngster Chanel (born 1910) is of course best known as a fashion brand. Whatever lies in the past, each brand continues to show its relevance with creativity and craftsmanship in equal measure. 1.
Boucheron Question Mark necklace The Question Mark necklace was ahead of its time. First unveiled by Boucheron founder Frédéric Boucheron in 1879, the clasp-free high jewellery stands out for its sinuous shape, which echoes – what else – a question mark. Today the house is revisiting it with a reversible version.
It comes in three colour variations with different stones on each side: blue tanzanite, red rubellite and green tourmaline on the front, while the back is embellished with rock crystals and diamonds, for a completely different look. 2. Mellerio high jewellery Mellerio is one of the oldest and most prestigious jewellers you’ve likely never heard of.
Established in Paris in 1613, the house is still located at 9, Rue de la Paix, a stone’s throw from Place Vendôme, and has been in the hands of the founding family for 15 generations. Now helmed by president and artistic director Laure-Isabelle Mellerio, the maison is a well-kept secret among jewellery conn.