HIGH JEWELRY

A JOURNEY THROUGH CENTURIES

Often synonymous with luxury and opulence, the history of high jewelry spans centuries and crosses cultures. This exceptional jewelry category uses materials such as gold, silver, platinum, diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and other gemstones, as well as intricate craftsmanship and unique designs.

The story of high jewelry begins in ancient civilizations, where it was more than just adornment; it was a symbol of power, status, and religious significance. The Egyptians, renowned for their luxury, adorned themselves with elaborate pieces made from gold, turquoise, and lapis lazuli. Pharaohs and queens wore intricate necklaces, headdresses, and bracelets to display their wealth and secure their place in the afterlife.

Similarly, in Mesopotamia, jewelry was essential to daily attire and religious ceremonies. The Sumerians crafted exquisite pieces from gold and gemstones, often featuring detailed engravings and symbolic motifs. Jewelry in these ancient cultures was deeply intertwined with their beliefs and social hierarchy.

The classical civilizations of Greece and Rome further refined the art of high jewelry. Inspired by their mythology and natural world, the Greeks created delicate and ornate pieces. They introduced techniques such as granulation and filigree, allowing intricate patterns and textures.

The Romans favored bold and luxurious designs. They utilized many gemstones, including emeralds, diamonds, and pearls. Roman jewelry often served as a statement of wealth and influence, with emperors and noblewomen flaunting their lavish collections.

High jewelry was more symbolic and religious during the Middle Ages. Relics and religious icons were encrusted with jewels, serving as devotional items and displays of the Church's wealth.

Royalty and the nobility also continued to use jewelry to signify their status. The intricate designs of medieval jewelry often incorporated heraldic symbols, and pieces were passed down as heirlooms, cementing the wearer's lineage and heritage.

The Renaissance marked a revival of art, culture, and luxury; high jewelry flourished during this period. The Medici family in Italy played a significant role in developing jewelry design. Renaissance jewelry was characterized by its elaborate designs, featuring enamel work, intricate metalwork, and abundant gemstones.

As Europe moved into the Baroque and Rococo periods, jewelry designs became even more extravagant. The French court, particularly under Louis XIV, set luxury and excess standards, featuring diamonds prominently at this time.

The 19th century saw the rise of some of the most iconic jewelry houses that dominate today's high jewelry world. Cartier, founded in 1847, became known for its innovative designs and platinum use, allowing for more delicate settings. Van Cleef & Arpels, established in 1896, introduced the Mystery Set technique, a revolutionary method of setting gemstones where the settings were invisible, creating a seamless and continuous surface of color.

The Art Nouveau movement brought a shift towards more natural and flowing designs, often inspired by flora and fauna. Designers like René Lalique embraced unconventional materials such as horn and glass, pushing the boundaries of traditional jewelry design.

The 20th century saw high jewelry evolve with changing tastes and technological advancements. In the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s, she introduced bold, geometric designs focusing on symmetry and vibrant colors. This era celebrated the use of new materials and techniques, reflecting the modernity of the time.

High jewelry is a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, often being unique creations. Its dedication to craftsmanship, use of exceptional materials, and ability to tell a story through design ensure that it will always hold a special place in the world of adornment.

In honor of centuries of history, our Corso flower was born. This flower was inspired by the simplicity, beauty, and delicacy of flowers while also representing balance by referencing themes such as the four elements and the four cardinal points, which are responsible for balancing life and the earth. In addition to the birth of our flower, this marked the beginning of our high jewelry collection, where we aim to abstract the opulence of the finest materials like solid gold and precious stones. This collection is distinguished by the incredible detail and delicacy of our artisans, whose meticulous craftsmanship infuses luxury and exclusivity into our unique perspective in the world of high jewelry.

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