La Maison Chaumet was the official court jeweler of the French Empire when Nitot established the House in 1780, and since this time, Chaumet has been considered to be a byword in reference to the elegance of Parisian fine jewelry. It was founded not by Chaumet but Marie-Étienne Nitot (1750-1809) who, following an apprenticeship to the crown jeweler of King Louis XIV and Queen Marie-Antoinette, set up La Bijouterie Nitot.
Nitot lived through the French Revolution and, in 1802, became court jeweler to Emperor Napoleon I and his two wives, Joséphine de Beauharnais and Marie-Louise. Nitot and his son, Franҫois Regnault, created magnificent jewelry for the Emperor who strongly desired to restore the prestigious reputation of France as the center of luxury. Nitot’s association with royal personalities resulted in his becoming the favored jeweler of European royal families.
After Nitot’s death, his son continued to maintain the business until the fall of the French Empire in 1815. The house was bought by his foreman Fossin, and then, eventually, in 1885, was taken over by Joseph Chaumet; workshops and boutiques were opened at 12 Place Vendôme, in 1907, with the house being renamed after its owner, Chaumet.
The fact that the Maison Chaumet was commissioned to create luxury jewelry for the papal tiaras and the Empresses Josephine and Marie-Louise, led to its fame amongst members of royalty worldwide. Since its establishment in Place Vendôme, the jewelry collections on display depict strong emotions for the wearer. All the jewelry collections: “Josephine” rings, the hearts “Links”, “Bee my love” and “Catch me”, denote history, romance, and sophistication in their own touching way.
Chaumet has represented Parisian fine jewelry for more than two centuries; it is still in control of its designs and jewelry productions. The jewelry is handmade, maintaining the house’s history and traditions. Chaumet’s Museum and Collections, 2.500 crowns amongst other items, pay homage to the heritage of France. Exhibitions are regularly held all over Paris but the Museum is not open to the public.
The Miller House, with its professional skill, can be trusted to deal with all aspects of buying and selling second-hand Chaumet jewelry of the best quality. All kinds of ornaments: rings, bracelets, necklaces, etc, are properly scrutinized and sent to the Miller workshop to be restored. Feel free to contact us with any questions or pay the Miller shop a visit at 233 rue Saint Honoré. We look forward to meeting you!