Long before pearls returned to the spotlight in modern jewellery, they were already central to the aesthetic language of Chaumet. The house’s origins trace back to the Napoleonic court, where Marie-Étienne Nitot created pieces for Empress Joséphine—whose portraits often show her adorned with teardrop-shaped pearl earrings.
These early designs laid the groundwork for a visual legacy that continues to inform the Maison’s relationship with pearls today.
Among Chaumet’s historic treasures is a remarkable necklace gifted by Joséphine to her daughter-in-law, Auguste-Amélie of Bavaria. This piece features seven baroque pearls, each crowned with a delicate diamond cap, exemplifying the Maison’s tradition of transformable jewellery.
The concept of adaptable jewels, as seen in this necklace, continues to inspire Chaumet’s contemporary creations, blending versatility with elegance.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in how heritage brands revisit such materials. Chaumet’s more recent work with pearls includes designs that play with asymmetry and colour gradients, placing the gem in dialogue with modern aesthetics.
The Joséphine Aigrette collection, for instance, brings pearls into the contemporary era with graceful dégradé hues and unexpected asymmetry. These designs seamlessly marry classic femininity with a bold, modern spirit, ensuring pearls remain relevant and desirable for today’s jewellery lovers.
Chaumet’s commitment to personalisation is evident in pieces like the Jeux de Liens Harmony pendant. Crafted in rose gold and mother-of-pearl and set with brilliant-cut diamonds, this pendant offers complimentary engraving either online or in-store within the first year of purchase.
