Jean Schlumberger: The Craftsman of Creative Genius at Tiffany & Co.
A self-taught visionary with poetic inspirations
Jean Schlumberger , one of the most talented artists of the 20th century , is renowned for his fantastical creations , adorned with diamonds and precious stones , on the theme of flora , fauna , and textiles . Born into an industrial family in Mulhouse , he developed a unique and self-taught artistic sense at a very young age.
Artistic beginnings and collaboration with Elsa Schiaparelli
In 1936 , fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli discovered Jean Schlumberger 's artistic genius and hired him to direct the creation of her button and fashion jewelry collections . He then created bold and surreal pieces, influenced by the art of his time .
The Golden Age at Tiffany & Co. and Iconic Creations
In 1956 , Jean Schlumberger began his legendary collaboration with Tiffany & Co. , giving free rein to his boundless imagination and marking a turning point in the history of jewelry design . He is one of the few designers to sign his pieces in the name of the house .
Among his famous creations are the bangle bracelets adorned with paillonné enamel , the Cooper bracelet , and the ring with sixteen diamonds. and the “ Bird on a Rock ” collection , with its famous bird perched on a diamond or precious stone . There are also the “ Sea Creatures ” brooches (seahorses, fish, seashells) and the “ Two Fruit ” rings , inspired by pomegranates and lemons .
In 1956 , he set the world's largest yellow diamond , the 128.54 -carat Tiffany Diamond , in a classic and baroque- style " Ribbon Rosette " necklace. This diamond subsequently became a staple of popular culture, notably thanks to Audrey Hepburn in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany's .
Heritage and contemporary influence
The Tiffany diamond resurfaced in 2019 around Lady Gaga 's neck at the 91st Academy Awards . In 2021 , Tiffany & Co. highlights Jean Schlumberger with the “ About Love ” campaign , featuring Beyoncé and Jay-Z , alongside the Tiffany Yellow Diamond and works of art by Basquiat .
The universe of Jean Schlumberger continues to inspire contemporary high jewelry. His rare and sought-after pieces are exhibited in museums and sold at prestigious auctions , embodying the perfect union between imagination , technical virtuosity and timeless luxury .
