There are few names more synonymous with fine jewelry then CHAUMET. This legendary Maison has a rich history that is deeply entrenched in the very history of France. Founded by Marie-Etienne Nitot in the 1780s, CHAUMET quickly became a favorite of the French aristocracy during the final years of the Ancien Régime. Having served his apprenticeship under Queen Marie-Antoinette’s jeweller, Nitot distinguished himself as a maker of truly incredible pieces.
Having survived the revolution, Nitot began to create jewelry that quickly caught the eye of the newly installed Emperor Napoleon who commissioned his coronation crown and sword hilt from Nitot. Nitot and his son would go on to make the wedding jewelry for Bonaparte’s marriage to both his first wife Joséphine de Beauharnais and his second wife, Marie Louise de Habsburg-Lorraine, Duchess of Parma as well as pieces for many other members of the court.
The Maison would become the most sought-after jeweler in Europe and count many members of the European royal houses and aristocracy as their loyal clients. The younger Nitot would eventually sell the business to his foreman Jean Baptiste Fossin when the French Empire fell in 1815 and Napoleon went into exile. As a dedicated royalist and great supporter of the former Emperor, Nitot found it advantageous to step back from the business.
The next few decades would see a shifting in ownership but continued success. The Maison continued to prosper by producing romantic pieces that attracted the likes of the new King of France, his family, and even Queen Victoria who granted a royal warrant to eventual owner Jean-Valentin Morel. It was with the marriage of Morel’s daughter to Joseph Chaumet in 1885 that the fabled masion would become the CHAUMET that is known today. Recognizing the popularity for tiaras during the booming Belle Epoque years, CHAUMET distinguished itself by becoming synonymous with these particular pieces.
Since then, CHAUMET continues to be the world’s premier maker of tiaras as well as watches, fine, and high jewelry. Drawing inspiration from their archives and rich history, these pieces represent centuries of incredible work and achievements. The Joséphine collection, first shown in 2010, pays tribute to one of CHAUMET’s most notable clients, the French Empress Joséphine Bonaparte. Modeled on particular pieces of hers like her famous diadem, tiara, and aigrette, these pieces are truly spectacular. The Bee My Love collection also incorporates CHAUMET’s association with the House of Bonaparte. Having become an emblem of both Napoleon and CHAUMET, the bee has also come to symbolize love and is interpreted in the shape of honeycombs in pieces done in yellow, white, and rose gold for this collection. The Liens collection, French for link, draws its inspiration from the CHAUMET archives and pieces found therein from the Belle Epoque.
Not only does CHAUMET honor its history with pride, the Maison has also looked to the future. Recognizing the importance of ethical sourcing and production, CHAUMET is a member of the Responsible Jewellery Council and is certified in their responsible ethical, social, and environmental practices as well as their respect for human rights. After an extensive renovation, CHAUMET has recently re-opened their iconic 12 Place Vendôme location to great fanfare. Needless to say, I’ll be hoping to visit during my upcoming trip to Paris.
For those interested in discovering CHAUMET within Canada, Maison Birks is their exclusive partner. For all others, you can refer to the CHAUMET website to find your preferred sales point or boutique {here}.
