Chaumet

Marie-Étienne Nitot founded the house in 1780 after serving his apprenticeship with Aubert, jeweler to Queen Marie-Antoinette. Nitot became Napoleon I's official jeweler in 1804, creating ceremonial pieces including Napoleon's coronation sword with the Regent Diamond. His son François Regnault Nitot continued until the fall of the Empire in 1815. The house passed through the Fossin period before Joseph Chaumet took control in 1885, establishing the current name. In 1907, operations moved to 12 Place Vendôme, where they remain today. After a bankruptcy scandal in 1987, Investcorp acquired the house and restored its prestige. LVMH purchased Chaumet in 1999, integrating it into their Watches & Jewelry division. Fourteen artisans continue to ply their craft in the workshop on Place Vendôme.