Chaumet in Majesty

An homage to the royal tiara, the crowning diadem of beauty and power.

Chaumet has been crafting exceptional royal jewelry for more than two hundred years. The tiara—a symbol of power and sovereignty turned emblem of love and marriage—is the ultimate expression of the jeweler’s masterful artistry and creativity. Today, the tiara evokes festive celebrations and radiant femininity, and has become an indispensable accessory for royals, celebrities, and women of note.

Drawing on pieces of jewelry and works of art from Chaumet’s heritage collections, prestigious museums, private collections, and royal courts, this volume brings together many of their most spectacular jewels, some never before seen by the public.

This keepsake volume retraces the history of the beloved tiara, highlighting the deep admiration it has garnered as the precious jewels have been transmitted and transformed from generation to generation. The text, by Christophe Vachaudez and Stéphane Bern, who curated the accompanying exhibition at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, (July 12–August 28, 2019) and by specialists from Chaumet, reveals the symbolism of the tiara, the artistic inspirations behind the creations, and the unique metaphorical repertoire employed by Chaumet in their creations.

An ode to royal jewelry from the eighteenth century to the present, this elegant and precious book is a veritable reference for specialist and jewelry aficionados alike.

About the Authors

Christophe Vachaudez is a specialist in the history of jewelry, and has contributed to numerous exhibitions including Chaumet: 200 Years of Creation (1995). He is the author of several books on jewelry, and contributed to The Cartier Collection(Flammarion, 2018).

Stephane Bern is an author, journalist, and popular television and radio personality. He is an expert on European monarchies, and leads a mission to preserve national heritage in France.

Jean-Marc Mansvelt is CEO of Chaumet.

Karine Huguenaud is an exhibition curator and Romain Condamine is registrar of collections at Chaumet.