Tiffany’s Famed Diamond Shines in a Playful New Setting
Since its acquisition by founder Charles Lewis Tiffany in 1887, the Tiffany Diamond has only been set in jewels five times. After being cut into a stunning 128.54 modified cushion-shape by gemologist George Kunz, the diamond was named the Tiffany Diamond and has since become a celebrated gem in the jewelry world. Two of the five times it has been set, the diamond was mounted in jewels designed by Jean Schlumberger. The most recent setting, unveiled at Tiffany’s newly renovated Fifth Avenue location, pays tribute to the designer and the brand’s diamond legacy.
When Jean Schlumberger joined Tiffany as a jewelry designer in 1956, one of his first endeavors was to imagine how he would set the Tiffany Diamond. His concept of a “Wardrobe of Settings” included three interchangeable settings for the diamond. However, none of these designs were made at the time. In 1961, Schlumberger’s dream came true when the diamond was mounted in his Ribbon Rosette necklace, which was featured in the movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”
For a 1995 retrospective exhibition honoring Jean Schlumberger at the Museé des Art Décoratifs in Paris, the Tiffany Diamond was set in his Bird On A Rock brooch design. The brooch, featuring a cockatoo perched on the corner of the diamond, became a popular attraction at Tiffany’s Fifth Avenue store.
Now, in celebration of Tiffany’s renovated flagship store in New York, known as The Landmark, the Tiffany Diamond has been set in a new jewel inspired by Schlumberger’s Bird on a Rock design. The setting features five Schlumberger-style cockatoos flying around the diamond, adding movement and joy to the gem. The design process took more than 2000 hours to complete.
The Tiffany Diamond in its new setting is showcased on the Main Floor of The Landmark, surrounded by video installations depicting Schlumberger’s cockatoos flying over the Manhattan skyline. The diamond shares the stage with another iconic piece, the Medusa pendant designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany in the early 20th century.
The appearance of the Tiffany Diamond in the renowned Tiffany New York windows is a rare event. In 1955, the diamond was showcased in a holiday window display where its brilliance could be seen from across Fifth Avenue. To mark the opening of The Landmark, a special window was created featuring the new Tiffany Diamond jewel.
As for who will wear the new Tiffany Diamond jewel, it remains to be seen. With the upcoming Met Gala, it wouldn’t be surprising if the treasure graces a guest at the highly anticipated event. The presence of the diamond at the gala would certainly add to the excitement and joy surrounding this iconic gem.
