As one of the 20th century’s most gifted artists, Jean Schlumberger is renowned for his fantastical creations that draw inspiration from flora, fauna and textiles. Innovative, imaginative and uninhibited, Schlumberger ushered in an unprecedented chapter of jewelry design when he began his legendary collaboration with Tiffany in 1956. His ingenuity continues to inspire the world of Tiffany High Jewelry today.
Design Signatures
Design Signatures
Bird on a Rock
For over half a century, the Bird on a Rock brooch has epitomized 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 exceptional creations.
Visionary Artistry
Schlumberger’s dedication to craft was unparalleled. His masterful woven gold designs pay homage to his family’s textile legacy and he seamlessly juxtaposed geometric motifs with organic shapes to create three-dimensional textures. Schlumberger’s signature of mixing 18k gold and platinum comes to life in his wire work, which requires challenging craftsmanship techniques and surpasses jewelry design to enter the world of sculpture. By employing hand-set diamonds in abstract patterns and intricate engraving techniques, Schlumberger’s designs create a sense of movement.
“For me, the art of jewelry is, first of all, a means of expression, providing possibilities for pure and durable beauty that are outside the usual framework of fashion.”
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 jewelry for fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli to widespread acclaim. 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 jewelry designs of the 20th century, worn by the world’s most celebrated women and key figures of the era.
Collections
Collections
Contact a Tiffany Diamond Expert
From stones of incredible size and beauty to nature’s rarest and most astonishing treasures, Tiffany’s immense portfolio of white, yellow and fancy color diamonds is unlike any other. For more information, please call a Tiffany Diamond Expert at 800-518-5555 or email us at diamondspecialist@tiffany.com.