By poetically weaving gold and diamonds together in fluid, intricate openwork, Chopard fashioned the contemporary Precious Lace collection. Rubies along with diamonds grace the new iterations that further celebrate the fusion between haute couture and haute joaillerie.
The art of lacemaking was refined in 16th century Venice, from where it spread to other European countries such as Belgium, France, Spain and England, taking on different characteristics and styles.
Meticulously hand-made, lace was prized as an adornment to costume for collars, cuffs, caps and ruffles, worn by nobility and royalty such as Elizabeth I. Like precious stones, lace became a symbol of status and power.
Chopard's artisans replicate the delicacy of lace with precision goldwork, and their expertise is similar to that of the nimble-fingered seamstresses referred to as "petites mains" in haute couture.
The exquisite hand-made lace is recreated by the interplay of pear-shaped and brilliant-cut gemstones, using their shapes and silhouettes within the openwork space, to bring a lilting rhythm, playful fluidity and contemporary stylisation.
The designs echo the scrolls, swirls and scalloped edges of fine antique lace. This rhythmic, undulating gemset gold volute is miniaturised through a stylised flower named Mini-Froufrou, with its scalloped borders and pear-shaped ruby petals on the airy openwork background.
Due to their deep red colour, rubies have long carried connotations relating to intense emotions such as love and passion. Associated with blood, they became a symbol of life in ancient cultures. Like lace, rubies acquired status as an emblem of power, and found their way into the regalia of many empires and into the attributes of members of the nobility who wanted to flaunt their wealth, prosperity and marital happiness.
The brilliance of rubies and diamonds illuminates the Mini-Froufrou pendant, earrings, ring and bangle in ethical 18-carat rose gold. The Precious Lace collection was created midway between fine and high jewellery, to make it more accessible and wearable for every day and occasion.
