The new collection“L’Esprit du Lion” by Chanel celebrates the spirit of the lion, zodiac sign of Mademoiselle Chanel and an emblem that has featured on many of her creations.
Housing 53 High Jewelry pieces, the collection was inspired by the magnificent lion sculptures in gilt brass, marble, and wood found in Gabrielle Chanel’s apartment at 31 Rue Cambon in Paris. The new collection features necklaces, multi-chain necklaces, convertible necklaces, chokers, classic and open bracelets, cuffs, earrings, rings, watches and brooches.
LEsprit du Lion
Pieces are crafted in yellow gold, white gold and platinum, with diamonds, sapphires, topaz and beryls.
Standout pieces in the Chanel “L’Esprit du Lion” collection include: the “Legendary” convertible necklace in 18-karat yellow gold and white gold set with over 1,200 diamonds plus a 30.19-karat cushion-cut fancy intense yellow diamond; the “Passionate” cuff in 18-karat yellow gold set with an orange topaz, a round-cut diamond and brilliant-cut diamonds; and the “Commanding” ring in 18-karat white gold set with a 5.28-karat marquise-cut diamond and 286 brilliant-cut diamonds.
It’s not the first time the house has used the big cat as inspiration. The lion made its first appearance in the French label’s high jewelry line in 2012, followed one year later by the “Sous le Signe du Lion” lion-themed collection.
In addition to being the zodiac sign of the legendary designer, born August 19, 1883, the lion is also representative of the omnipresent symbol of Venice – a city that Gabrielle Chanel held close to her heart.
