Jean Schlumberger
As one of the 20th century’s most gifted artists, Jean Schlumberger is renowned for his fantastical creations that draw inspiration from the natural world. Innovative, imaginative and uninhibited, Schlumberger ushered in an unprecedented chapter of jewellery design when he began his legendary collaboration with Tiffany in 1956. His ingenuity continues to inspire the world of Tiffany & Co. today.
Design Signatures
With jewellery as his canvas, the visionary artist brought the world around him to life in daring creations that blur the line between reality and the surreal.
Flora & Fauna
With diamonds, colourful gemstones, gold and enamel as his palette, Jean Schlumberger transformed nature’s wonders into bejewelled masterpieces.
Woven in a lyrical, fluid manner, Schlumberger’s iconic gold elements reimagined cross-stitches, ropes, tassels and ribbons, reflecting his family’s legacy.
Sea to Sky
Schlumberger’s brilliant work celebrates both celestial and aquatic elements, from stars and moons to shells and starfish. Fanciful blends of colour and texture capture the designer’s innate understanding of movement.
Bird on a Rock
For over half a century, the Bird on a Rock brooch has epitomised joy, freedom and possibilities. Designed by Jean Schlumberger, Tiffany & Co. introduced the iconic creation in 1965. Today, Bird on a Rock has maintained its timeless allure and evolved into a world of extraordinary creations crafted with exceptional diamonds and coloured gemstones
Visionary Artistry
Schlumberger’s dedication to craft was unparalleled, evident in his masterful woven gold designs which pay homage to his family’s textile legacy. Celebrated for his bold use of organic forms, vivid gemstones and rich textures, he seamlessly juxtaposed geometric and natural motifs to create three-dimensional masterpieces. Among the first modern jewellery designers to mix 18k gold and platinum, he pioneered a signature wire work technique that demands exceptional craftsmanship, elevating his pieces beyond classic jewellery designs. Hand-set diamonds in abstract patterns, intricate engraving methods and the use of colour through the most magnificent gemstones allowed Schlumberger to infuse his creations with dynamic movement and tactile depth, leaving a legacy of mesmerising, sculptural beauty.
“For me, the art of jewellery is, first of all, a means of expression, providing possibilities for pure and durable beauty that are outside the usual framework of fashion.”
—Jean Schlumberger
The Artist
Born in 1907 into a prominent family of textile manufacturers in Alsace, France, Schlumberger showed a gift for drawing early on. In 1937, he began designing buttons and costume jewellery for fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli to widespread acclaim. His career continued to flourish and, in the 1950s, Schlumberger was asked by Walter Hoving, then Chairman of Tiffany & Co., to join the company as Vice President. Schlumberger created some of the most incredible jewellery designs of the 20th century, worn by the world’s most celebrated women and key figures of the era.
Collections
Engage with a Tiffany High Jewellery Expert
Handcrafted by Tiffany & Co. artisans with gemstones of extraordinary rarity and beauty, each high jewellery masterpiece is a testament to the House’s legacy of exceptional craft and savoir faire. For more information, please call a Tiffany High Jewellery Expert on 800 518 5555 or email us at diamondspecialist@tiffany.com.