Maison Chaumet: Heritage and Imperial Radiance

From the Empire to Place Vendôme: a house founded by Marie-Étienne Nitot

Initially apprenticed to Ange-Joseph Aubert , jeweler to Marie Antoinette , Marie-Étienne Nitot founded his own Maison in 1780 , later named Chaumet . Beginning as a luxury jeweler in Paris , he quickly gained the favor of Napoleon Bonaparte and his court. The House of Chaumet then became a benchmark of French fine jewelry .

The official jeweler of Napoleon and Empress Josephine

After designing Napoleon 's coronation crown and sword , Marie-Étienne Nitot became the personal jeweler to Empress Josephine . In 1812, he was succeeded by his son, François-Regnault , who relocated the Maison's workshops. Chaumet was the first company to establish itself on Place Vendôme , at number 15, now the Ritz Paris . This prestigious address became the historic heart of Parisian luxury jewelry.

The Chaumet style in the 19th century: nature, romanticism and watchmaking innovation

After the decline of the Empire, Nitot's successors focused on jewelry with a natural and romantic theme . Chaumet also distinguished itself as a watchmaker , creating a pair of wristwatches , one for each wrist, presented to Princess Augusta of Bavaria by Prince Eugène de Beauharnais . One watch indicates the hours , while the other serves as a calendar . Chaumet watchmaking is distinguished by its refinement and precision .

The golden age of the House of Chaumet under Joseph Chaumet

Joseph Chaumet , the namesake of the House, led the brand from 1885 to 1928. A master of the Belle Époque style , he popularized aigrettes and tiaras as social symbols and fashion statements , defining Chaumet's expertise . It was during this period that the House officially adopted the name Chaumet , entering its golden age . In 1907 , the House moved to 12 Place Vendôme , its iconic address today. This move reinforced Chaumet's image as a jewel of Parisian jewelry .

Iconic collections and stylistic innovations

Over the years, Chaumet has perpetuated its style by creating tiaras , high jewelry pieces, and exceptional watches , reflecting refined Parisian taste and a constant quest for innovation . In 1977 , Chaumet unveiled a new signature collection: Liens , celebrating attachments and connections in all their forms. This iconic jewel symbolizes love, union, and the passing down of traditions .

Josephine and Bee My Love Collections: Modernity and Heritage

In keeping with this iconic collection, Chaumet created two signature collections : Joséphine and Bee My Love .

In 2010 , Chaumet's Joséphine collection paid homage to Empress Joséphine , the Maison's first major client. Aesthetically, it draws inspiration from the tiara , a Chaumet specialty. This crowned design blends femininity, imperial elegance , and modernity .

In 2011 , the Bee My Love collection was launched, reflecting Chaumet 's cherished theme of nature and Josephine's love for all things botanical . The bee and beehive motifs were reimagined to create a wondrous and highly symbolic garden . These jewels evoke royalty , fertility , and timeless luxury .

An exceptional setting at 12, Place Vendôme

Maison Chaumet celebrates its 240th anniversary in style, unveiling the new décor of its historic address at 12 Vendôme . Today, the Hôtel Baudard de Sainte-James houses a boutique, salons dedicated to culture where part of the Maison's heritage is revealed, and the High Jewelry workshop . The customer experience is designed as an immersion in the history of French luxury .

Chaumet today: between craftsmanship, heritage and global influence

In this historic setting , Chaumet perpetuates its exceptional expertise : the artisan jewelers, setters, engravers , and polishers bring unique pieces to life, according to a tradition passed down for over two centuries . Each creation is handcrafted according to the exacting standards of Parisian fine jewelry .

Chaumet and LVMH: international growth

After a turbulent period in the 20th century, the House found renewed momentum by joining the LVMH group in 1999 , entering an era of international revival . This strategic shift allowed Chaumet to re-establish itself among the world's most influential luxury brands .

Exceptional expertise that remains alive

For over two centuries , Chaumet has continued to weave together history , nature , and emotion in each of its creations, embodying Parisian elegance at its most timeless . The House perpetuates a style that is at once classic , symbolic , and audacious , remaining true to its heritage .