France: Home of High Jewelry
France, and Paris in particular, is the spiritual home of haute joaillerie. Place Vendôme remains the most prestigious jewelry address in the world, where centuries-old maisons sit alongside visionary contemporary designers. French jewelry is admired for its refined craftsmanship, exceptional gemstones, and a creative sensibility that turns every piece into a work of art rooted in heritage.
1. Cartier
Cartier, founded in 1847, is one of the most iconic jewelry houses in the world. Famous for the Love bracelet, Trinity ring, and Panthère collections, the maison combines bold design with exquisite craftsmanship, serving royalty, celebrities, and discerning clients across generations.
2. Van Cleef & Arpels
Van Cleef & Arpels is celebrated for its poetic, nature-inspired creations and the patented Mystery Setting technique. The Alhambra collection has become a modern classic, while the maison's high jewelry pieces are coveted as masterworks of imagination and technical precision.
3. Boucheron
Boucheron was the first jeweler to open on Place Vendôme in 1893 and continues to lead with daring high jewelry creations. Its Quatre and Serpent Bohème lines blend distinctive design codes with the maison's tradition of fine stones and impeccable settings.
4. Chaumet
With roots reaching back to 1780, Chaumet was the official jeweler of Napoleon and remains a master of tiaras and bridal jewelry. The Joséphine collection celebrates this regal heritage with elegant, light-filled designs that feel both timeless and contemporary.
5. Mauboussin
Mauboussin offers accessible luxury within the world of fine jewelry, known for its colored gemstones and creative engagement rings. The maison balances Parisian craftsmanship with playful designs, making fine jewelry approachable for a broader audience without compromising quality.
6. Mellerio dits Meller
Founded in 1613, Mellerio is one of the oldest family-owned jewelry houses in the world. Its discreet elegance, historic clientele, and beautifully crafted high jewelry pieces have earned the maison a quiet but powerful reputation among connoisseurs.
7. Fred Joaillier
Fred is best known for the Force 10 collection, inspired by sailing and combining steel cables with gold and diamonds. The Parisian house brings a sporty, modern energy to fine jewelry while maintaining the high standards expected from Place Vendôme.
8. Dior Joaillerie
Dior Joaillerie translates the maison's couture spirit into exceptional fine jewelry. Collections like Rose des Vents and Bois de Rose reflect Christian Dior's love of gardens and femininity, with playful yet refined pieces in gold and gemstones.
9. Messika
Founded by Valérie Messika, this contemporary brand has redefined diamond jewelry with movable diamond designs and a distinctly modern Parisian aesthetic. Collections such as Move and Lucky Move are loved for their wearable elegance and youthful energy.
10. APM Monaco
Although headquartered between France and Monaco, APM Monaco has a strong Parisian footprint and is celebrated for accessible, fashion-forward silver jewelry. Its everyday collections offer trend-driven design at attractive price points, appealing especially to younger clients.
Why French Jewelry Endures
French jewelry brands set the global standard because they combine centuries of craftsmanship, exceptional gem selection, and a strong sense of design heritage. Whether you choose a high jewelry masterpiece from a Place Vendôme maison or a contemporary signature piece, French jewelry is created to be cherished for a lifetime and passed down through generations as enduring symbols of elegance.