Chanel Brings Quilting to High Jewelry

French fashion house Chanel introduces its 2016 high-jewelry collection “Signature de Chanel”, so-named because it is dedicated to something of a signature craft for the brand, quilting. Split into 11-mini-collections, the pattern loved by Gabrielle Chanel is highlighted with the help of diamonds, mother-of-pearl marquetry, rock crystal and pearls. Quilting was first seen in the maison‘s jewelry line with the “Coco Crush” collection in April 2015, where selected cuffs and rings showcased the pattern.

Originally inspired by the equestrian world, the quilted pattern is an integral part of Chanel’s history that’s often considered a signature of the brand. This now legendary effect was first seen on the “2.55” bag, before soon being brought to more of the brand’s bags and accessories.

For 2016, it’s in the hands of Chanel’s jewelry studio — the Studio de Création de Haute Joaillerie — to craft a range based on the famous quilting, with no less than 48 pieces reinterpreting the motif.

With sleek curves and chunky shapes, the pieces sit close to the body and embrace its every movement, channeling the quilted effect in a multitude of combinations.

Chanel has put 18k white gold and diamonds at the heart of this new high jewelry collection. However, 18k yellow gold is used in the “Signature d’Or” mini-collection, with a ring and cuff set with brilliant-cut diamonds.

Other mini-collections include “Signature de Saphir,” which sets sapphires among square-cut, brilliant-cut, baguette-cut and triangle-cut diamonds, while “Signature de Perles” sees Japanese cultured pearls alongside emerald-cut, brilliant-cut and cushion-cut diamonds. The “Signature Acidulée” collection includes a ring set with an aquamarine stone.

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