BOUCHERON

Frédéric Boucheron was a French jeweler who founded the House of Boucheron in 1858. Boucheron is known for his innovative designs, use of materials, and his ability to create jewelry that combined luxury and wearability.

Born in 1830, Frédéric Boucheron began his career as a jeweler very early at fourteen when he was apprenticed to the highly respected Parisian jeweler, Jules Chaise,who was a friend of his father. He later worked as a salesman for the popular jeweler, Tixier-Deschamps, until Monsieur Deschamps retired and closed his shop.Boucheron decided to start his own business and founded his own brand in 1858 at the Galerie de Valois in the Palais Royal.

During his apprenticeship, Boucheron carefully studied and learned the importance of quality gemstones and craftsmanship, which he made the focus of his own jewelry. He also deviated from the typical styles of the time and created imaginative and artistic pieces that appealed to fashion-forward women who sought something new and original. As his reputation grew, he became known as an expert in precious stones, a master technician, and a creator of beautiful jewelry. He established his own workshop in 1866 and the following year, exhibited his work at the Paris Exposition Universelle where he won his first gold medal for the innovative nature of his jewelry.

In 1936, Fred and Gerard, the two sons of Louis, joined their father's family business and played a significant role in the company's participation in the New York World Fair in 1939. After Louis passed away in 1959, Fred and Gerard took full control of the company and ensured that Maison Boucheron maintained its reputation for producing quality and innovative designs. They continued to expand the business, with a new store opening in Japan in 1973. Alain, Gerard's son, later joined the company and worked with esteemed clients like Princess Grace of Monaco. In 1980, Alain took over the reins of the company after the retirement of both his uncle in 1962 and his father. He remained the head of Maison Boucheron until 2000 when the company was sold to the Gucci Group, marking the end of 142 years and four generations of Boucheron family leadership.

Some of Boucheron’s most famous works include :-

The Point d'Interrogation necklace: This necklace was created in 1883 and features a long chain with a diamond-studded question mark at the end. The necklace was designed to be worn in a variety of ways, including wrapped around the neck, draped over the shoulder, or as a bracelet.

The Serpent necklace: This necklace was created in 1888 and features a coiled snake with emerald eyes and a diamond-studded head. The snake is made from gold and enamel, and the necklace is designed to sit close to the neck.

The Tiara of the Maharaja of Patiala: This tiara was created in 1928 for the Maharaja of Patiala and features over 2,000 diamonds set in platinum. The tiara can be disassembled into smaller pieces, including a necklace, a brooch, and a bracelet.

The Lierre Givré necklace: This necklace was created in 1893 and features ivy leaves made from gold, enamel, and diamonds. The leaves are designed to appear frosted, giving the necklace a unique texture and appearance.

The Epines brooch: This brooch was created in 1887 and features a thorn branch made from gold, enamel, and diamonds. The brooch is designed to be worn as a statement piece on a lapel or collar.

Boucheron's designs were known for their elegance, innovation, and use of materials, and his work has influenced jewelry design for generations. The House of Boucheron continues to create exquisite jewelry and watches today, carrying on the legacy of its founder.