What made my eyes sparkle today: a bewitching Chaumet necklace inspired by the mythical mermaid and an incredible Buccellati cuff bracelet with intricate gold leaves
It's day two of Paris Couture Week and the high jewellery presentations are ongoing. Today, I stopped by Place Vendôme to view two collections, each marvellous in their own way: first, Chaumet’s new Ondes et Merveilles high jewellery collection, and following that, it was on to Milanese jeweller Buccellati’s Rue Saint-Honoré store to see an array of archival pieces.
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Chaumet falls for all things nautical
French jewellery brand Chaumet is having a major week in Paris. It kicked off with the opening of its exhibition Végétal – L’École de la Beauté, at Les Beaux‑Arts de Paris, exploring the influence of nature on the designs of Chaumet throughout history, and is presenting its new high jewellery, titled Ondes et Merveilles (waves and wonders), at its flagship Vendôme store. The interior of the newly refurbished flagship was given a fresh coat of navy blue paint in line with the underwater theme, setting the scene for the jewellery pieces.
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The collection drew on aspects of nautical life as its inspiration—from swirling waves and currents, to sailors’ tattoos, and even the mythical mermaid—which translated into compelling pieces filled with movement. One can almost see the sweeping aquatic eddies and vibrant marine creatures come to life in the collection. Among my favourites of the day included the Gulfstream necklace, featuring a stunning 19.83-carat Australian black opal, paired with diamonds, sapphires, emeralds and chrysoprase (quelle surprise!); and a brilliant gold cuff crafted to resemble pebbles on the beach, each one individually scored to look as if worn down by the waves.