Series Vol. 5 | Embracing Elegant Grace, Pursuing Ultimate Sophistication: "Tiffany" | TIFFANY & CO.

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Always elevating jewelry to new heights, "Tiffany" embodies the sensibilities of a new era while honoring its distinguished tradition. The unparalleled elegance of its jewelry, born from an unshakeable confidence as a diamond authority and exceptional craftsmanship, is the dream of women worldwide. This time, we delve into the allure of America's premier jeweler.

Text by NOGUCHI Minako

An Innovative Brand History Passed Down Through Generations

Tiffany's illustrious history began in 1837. It started when founder Charles Lewis Tiffany opened a shop for fancy goods and stationery in New York. Charles, possessing a keen eye for discerning gemstones, later traveled to Europe, where he purchased numerous precious stones, including diamonds, and brought them back to America. The jewelry, imbued with sublime radiance, quickly became a sensation among the American upper class. In 1848, the American media lauded Charles as the "King of Diamonds."

Charles Lewis Tiffany (1812-1902), founder of Tiffany & Co. ©Tiffany & Co.

©Tiffany & Co.

A visionary, Charles published the first edition of "Blue Book," America's first mail-order catalog, in 1845. Initially, it featured gemstones that had been remounted from French and Spanish crown jewels, attracting significant attention. The blue used for the cover was named "Tiffany Blue" and continues to be cherished today as the brand's iconic color.

A necklace designed by jewelry designer Jean Schlumberger using the "Tiffany Diamond" appeared in promotional photos for the 1961 film "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (left). In 2012, to commemorate the 175th anniversary, a new, lavish setting was added (right). Photo left: ©Tiffany & Co. Right: ©Carton Davis

The Tiffany & Co. flagship store, a beloved symbol of New York. ©Tiffany & Co.

Charles, well aware that "the finest gems have the power to attract people," purchased one of the world's largest yellow diamonds, weighing 287.42 carats, discovered in the Kimberley Mine in 1878. This gem, cut into a 128.54-carat cushion shape exhibiting the most exquisite color and brilliance, was named the "Tiffany Diamond." After being exhibited worldwide, it is now on display at the New York flagship store, captivating countless individuals and solidifying Tiffany's status as a high jeweler.

In 1886, he conceived the "Tiffany Setting," a six-prong solitaire ring that has become synonymous with engagement rings. For over a century since, it has remained the object of desire for brides around the globe.

The current Tiffany & Co. flagship store relocated to its present location on Fifth Avenue and 57th Street in 1940. After several moves from Lower Manhattan, it settled in its current iconic spot. It stands as a landmark in one of New York's most glamorous districts, bustling with visitors every day.

Page02.A "Legendary" Engagement Ring Loved for Over 130 Years

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A "Legendary" Engagement Ring Loved for Over 130 Years

In 1886, Charles Lewis Tiffany created the Tiffany Setting, aiming to design a ring that would enhance the beauty of a brilliant-cut diamond.

The Tiffany Setting engagement ring is a jewel that symbolizes Tiffany's heritage. Born in 1886, it has been hailed as "the ring of rings" and celebrates its 130th anniversary this year. The "six-prong" design, which elevates the diamond high above the band with six platinum claws to maximize light intake, was revolutionary at the time of its creation, captivating many brides with its transparent brilliance.

The Tiffany Setting engagement ring achieves perfect beauty with the sparkle of its round brilliant-cut diamond set in the band. The exceptional diamonds, selected through Tiffany's rigorous, proprietary standards—said to "eliminate 99.96% of the world's recognized diamonds"—are meticulously cut and polished by skilled artisans. This supreme brilliance, passed down through noble craftsmanship, is a masterpiece befitting the vow of eternal love.

Tiffany Setting Engagement Ring

Materials | Diamond (0.18ct~), Platinum

A Collection Boldly and Modernly Reflecting Tiffany's "Now"

Introducing the "Tiffany T" collection, a new icon that projects a new era for jewelers and is favored by fashion-conscious women. Designed in 2014 by Francesca Amfitheatrof, the brand's first female Design Director, it draws inspiration from New York, a city brimming with creativity and possibility. Based on the strong, graphical "T" motif, it proposes a modern, sophisticated style suited to contemporary lifestyles, embarking on new creativity.

The "Tiffany T" collection offers a wide range of pieces, including minimalist bracelets, large hinged cuffs, chains and pendants of various lengths, rings, and earrings. Materials include 18K gold (rose, yellow, and white) and sterling silver. The simple designs of these jewelry pieces are also appealing for their ability to be layered for a luxurious presence.

Tiffany T Square Ring

Materials | Rose gold, white gold, yellow gold (from top)

Price | ¥191,160 each

Tiffany T Wire Bracelet

Materials | Yellow gold x diamond, rose gold, white gold x diamond, rose gold x diamond, yellow gold (from top)

Price | ¥459,000, ¥168,400, ¥459,000, ¥459,000, ¥168,400 (from top)

Tiffany T Smile Pendant

Materials | Rose gold x diamond, yellow gold x diamond, white gold x diamond (from top)

Chain length | Approx. 41-46cm (adjustable) for all

Price | ¥502,200 each

Page03.The "Blue Book Collection 2016" Featuring Magnificent High Jewelry

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The "Blue Book Collection 2016" Featuring Magnificent High Jewelry

First published by Charles Lewis Tiffany in 1845, the "Blue Book" began as a mail-order catalog and has evolved into a special publication showcasing Tiffany's most exceptional high jewelry. The 2016 collection, themed "THE ART OF TRANSFORMATION," presents a glamorous array of pieces embodying the vision of Design Director Francesca Amfitheatrof.

"Through this collection, we invite you on a journey to explore the mysteries of the natural world. As you ascend from the deep sea to the surface, a serene world unfolds. Transformation occurs in this tranquil environment. Life changes, reaches the surface, and takes its first breath. These stories of evolution are born only in stillness and peace. Through nature's mysterious power, the wonders of the world we inhabit are created," says Francesca.

This supreme collection, celebrating the mysteries of nature, luxuriously embodies the ultimate moments of beauty—evolving and ascending from the silent depths of the ocean to the surface—through the interplay of light and sparkle from the finest diamonds and colorful gemstones. The overwhelming beauty, born from the tradition of unparalleled craftsmanship passed down through generations and vibrant creativity, transports viewers to a fantastical realm. Immerse yourself in the ultimate expression of Tiffany's passion for gemstones.