Jewellery makers have been inspiring people and contributing to the culture of society for millennia. As fellow jewellery lovers, Moonstone & Wolf thought you'd like a bit of background on some of the most celebrated jewellers the world has ever seen. Here, we have familiar names from Russia, New York and Paris...
PETER CARL FABERGE
Fabergé, the legendary jewellery house, was founded in 1842 in St Petersburg, Russia, by Gustav Fabergé. However, it was his son, Peter Carl Fabergé, who propelled the company to international recognition for his opulent and intricately designed Imperial Easter Eggs created for the Russian royal family. These eggs, crafted with precious metals, gemstones, and intricate enamelling techniques, were a symbol of the imperial family's status and wealth. However, Fabergé didn't stop at creating jaw-dropping, jewel-encrusted Easter Eggs for the Tsar every year. He was also commissioned to design jewellery – from tiaras and brooches to rings and necklaces – in which he incorporated a variety of techniques, such as delicate enamelling and intricate metalwork, to bring his creations to life. Fabergé's work often featured stunning motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers and animals, and his use of diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires added a touch of decadence to his designs. Fabergé also embraced different styles, ranging from the graceful Art Nouveau to the geometrical Art Deco. Each piece designed by Fabergé is a work of art, and his creations continue to be coveted and treasured today for their exquisite design, timeless elegance and the legacy of the world-famous Fabergé name.
TIFFANY & CO
Pretty much everyone has heard of the world-famous jewellery brand Tiffany & Co – especially due to the film Breakfast At Tiffany's. What fewer people will know is that it started out as a stationary and fancy goods emporium in New York in 1837. Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B Young established the company on Broadway and were joined by a third partner, Ellis, in 1841, trading under the name Tiffany, Young and Ellis. Charles Lewis Tiffany took control of the company in 1853 and the store became the iconic Tiffany & Co. It quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship and unparalleled designs. In 1886, the brand introduced the Tiffany Setting, revolutionising engagement ring design by allowing the diamond to be set high to allow as much light through as possible. Throughout the years, Tiffany & Co has become a byword for elegance, luxury and timeless style, attracting influential clientele and setting trends in the jewellery industry. Today, the brand remains an iconic symbol of exquisite craftsmanship and continues to inspire with its distinctive designs and commitment to exceptional quality.
CARTIER
Cartier, the esteemed jewellery and watchmaker, has a remarkable history spanning over 175 years. Founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier in Paris, France, Cartier quickly gained recognition for its exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs. The brand's reputation climbed further under the leadership of Louis-François' grandsons, Louis, Pierre and Jacques, who grew the business internationally, capturing the attention of royalty, aristocrats and prominent figures around the world. Cartier's designs were characterised by a dynamic fusion of traditional and avant-garde styles. The brand became renowned for its iconic creations, such as the Panthère de Cartier, the Santos de Cartier and the Love bracelet, which have become much-coveted symbols of elegant sophistication. Today, Cartier continues to be synonymous with timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship and unapologetic luxury, helping to secure its position as one of the world's most prestigious jewellery and watch brands.