A look into Maison Chaumet’s milestones throughout history
Nature’s Inspiration: Chaumet’s Timeless Designs
The exceptional creations of Parisian jewellery house Chaumet, one of the most prestigious names in the world of luxury jewellery, have embodied style and elegance for over 240 years.
The Chaumet story, from tiaras to unique pieces and watches, is told through 12 key dates, a symbolic number paying tribute to its iconic address, 12 Place Vendôme.
The Maison draws inspiration for its designs from nature, just like its muse, Empress Joséphine Bonaparte did, who was a passionate lover of nature. This connection with nature and its timeless elegance became the basis of collections created by Maison Chaumet, embodying history, symbolism and tradition to this day.
From Tiaras to Watches: Chaumet’s Evolution
1780 | Maison founder Marie-Étienne Nitot starts his career in Paris, quickly making a name for himself thanks to his extraordinary talent, becoming the official jeweller to Napoleon Bonaparte.
1804–1815 | Nitot designs key pieces for Napoleon’s rule, such as Napoleon’s coronation sword and the papal tiara. 1812 – Nitot’s son, François-Regnault, takes over the business and moves the workshops to 15 Place Vendôme, which is now the Ritz Paris.
1820–1850 | Nitot’s successors shift the Maison’s focus to romantic jewellery, with nature as the central motif.
1879–1914 | Under Joseph Chaumet’s direction, the Maison experiences a boom during Belle Époque, creating pieces such as aigrettes and tiaras.
1890–1920 | With developing transport links, Indian princes become avid jewellery collectors, bringing their precious stones to Paris. 1907 – Chaumet moves to 12 Place Vendôme, turning the Hotel Baudard de Saint-James into its iconic address.
1910–1920 | Maison adapts its style to Art Deco trends, creating geometric shapes.
1930s | The Maison continues to evolve its timeless style, echoing Parisian taste and the avant-garde.
1950–1980 | Chaumet increases the variety of its styles, adding a watchmaking department. 1977 – A new signature collection, Liens, is unveiled, celebrating bonds, feelings and important moments in life.
1999 | Chaumet joins the LVMH Group, opening a new chapter in its history.
2010 | Chaumet presents the Joséphine collection, celebrating femininity and paying tribute to the Empress Joséphine, followed by Bee My Love in 2011, reflecting Chaumet’s love of nature.
2017–2019 | Chaumet exhibits its precious creations in Beijing, Tokyo and Monaco, showcasing its history and contemporary design.
2020 | The Maison celebrates its 240th anniversary at its legendary 12 Place Vendôme address. This is where the prestigious Maison opened its first shop in 1812, becoming the first business to be established at the exclusive location.
A Legacy of Luxury: Chaumet’s Enduring Appeal
Throughout history, jewellery has been more than just a decoration, it has carried symbolic meaning and reflected social status.
Each piece of jewellery is Chaumet’s reinterpretation of its passion for creating timeless designs that resonate with the modern woman, making her not only its wearer, but also storyteller.
The creations exude the same charm and grace reminiscent of Empress Joséphine, who loved nature.
Chaumet in Croatia: Mamić 1970
The Chaumet collections are available at Mamić 1970, located in central Zagreb, at 7 Frane Petrića Street, where you can experience the luxury and tradition of this prestigious jewellery Maison.
Photos Mamić 1970
Video Chaumet
