Exquisite Jewelry Inspire Diverse Cultures

The jewels have always been one of the most treasured possessions. Since ancient times, crowns, rings, bracelets and necklaces have represented social power and are a benchmark of the culture of each era. The styles, materials and purposes of the jewelry over time have also been a source of inspiration for designers of major fashion houses today.

Byzantine empress Theodora was the starting point for the Parisian couturier house Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, to design a jewelry collection inspired by the aesthetics of that empire. "Theodora was a circus performer who became an entrepreneur, like Chanel, who was a little singer and became a fashion entrepreneur," the German designer about the inspiration for a jewelry collection that takes the mixture influences between the Eastern and Roman culture. Cross bracelets, necklaces and tiaras luxury merging in colors like shades of gold with stones red, purple, bronze, black, and amber.

Chanel was founded in 1910 by Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, and is considered one of the revolutionary fashion. The jewelry designed by the house, led for years by German designer Lagerfeld, is of great delicacy and elegance, as well as being inspired by cultures like the Byzantine, Russian or French, has in its catalog of the iconic elements home as the flower of the camellia and the renowned Chanel logo.

Cartier for the intense colors, precious metals, religion and architecture was the pretext for the French firm of Mysterious India Jewellery created a luxurious collection that evokes the mystical country. The firm has over 200 stores in over 125 countries in cities like Paris, New York, London and Seattle, to name a few. Cartier is synonymous with fine jewelry and exclusive watches, has also developed a catalog of other luxury items such as lighters, scarves and handbags.

Louis Francois Cartier, the founder of this house, born in 1819 and began his career as an apprentice jeweler Adolphe Picard. When his teacher retired, Louis bought the business and established the firm Cartier in 1847. His first creations were gladly accepted by French society, and soon attracted the attention of royalty. Since its inception Cartier pieces are inspired by animal motifs, aesthetic of Art Deco, Art Nouveau and images of different cultures.