Paris When it Glitters

ince its first iteration in 1962, Paris’s Biennale des Antiquaires has been a showcase primarily for antiques and art. But in recent years fine jewelers have begun designing major collections for the event. For the 25th Biennale, taking place September 15 to 22, Van Cleef & Arpels will unveil a fantastical collection of Jules Verne-esque pieces (including the marlin clip, at top right, composed of diamonds and sapphires). Chanel has created a line inspired by Mademoiselle Chanel’s love of feathers, which appear on brooches (left), earrings, and necklaces. Harry Winston is bringing 60 blinged-out pieces, and Cartier will feature a collection that’s heavy on carved stones and includes one of the house’s rare “mystery” clocks (a transparent timepiece that manages to hide its inner workings), which often sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars. Dior will show 150 items, including 13 new pieces that drip with multicolored stones (bottom right). And the latest house to jump on the Biennale bandwagon is Louis Vuitton, which will debut with dozens of Lorenz Bäumer–designed items and La Malle aux Trésors, a chic trunk containing statement cocktail rings and other sparkly adornments. Go to bdafrance.eu.

Photos: Courtesy of the Designers