Is Boucheron the Oldest Jewelry House in Paris?

By Anna Duncan

Boucheron is one of the most popular and well-known jewelry houses in the world. Many people believe that it is the oldest jewelry house in Paris.

However, is this actually true? In this article, we will explore the history of Boucheron and determine whether or not it is indeed the oldest jewelry house in Paris.

The History Of Boucheron

Boucheron was founded in 1858 by Frédéric Boucheron. The first Boucheron boutique was located at Galerie de Valois in Palais Royal.

From the beginning, Boucheron was known for its unique and innovative designs. The company quickly gained a reputation for creating exquisite pieces of jewelry that were unlike anything else on the market.

Over the years, Boucheron continued to grow and expand its business. In 1893, Frédéric’s son Louis opened a new boutique on Place Vendôme, which remains Boucheron’s flagship store to this day. By the early 20th century, Boucheron had become one of the most respected and prestigious jewelry houses in Paris.

Is Boucheron The Oldest Jewelry House In Paris?

Now that we have explored a brief history of Boucheron, let’s answer the question: Is it really the oldest jewelry house in Paris?

The answer is no – there are actually several other jewelry houses that are older than Boucheron. For example:

Mellerio dits Meller

Mellerio dits Meller was founded in 1613, making it one of the oldest jewelers not just in Paris but also in Europe. The company has a rich history and has created pieces for many notable figures throughout history.

Chaumet

Chaumet was founded in 1780 by Marie-Étienne Nitot, who became the official jeweler to Emperor Napoleon I. The company is known for its elegant and sophisticated designs.

Van Cleef & Arpels

Van Cleef & Arpels was founded in 1896, just a few years after Boucheron. The company quickly gained a reputation for creating exquisite pieces of jewelry that were both beautiful and innovative.

In Conclusion

While Boucheron is certainly one of the oldest and most respected jewelry houses in Paris, it is not actually the oldest. However, this does not diminish the company’s incredible legacy and reputation for creating some of the most beautiful and unique pieces of jewelry in the world. Whether you are a collector or simply an admirer of fine jewelry, Boucheron is definitely a name to know.