—The etymology of "luxury" is "lux," meaning "light." Since ancient times, light has been associated with the sun. Luxury was born as an expression of "worshipping the sun." In the Middle Ages, luxury emerged as a "symbol of authority" and a "mark of lineage." Today, the luxury that Chaumet proposes throughout its history is not merely about splendor and magnificence, but about jewelry that allows one to express their own sensibilities in their own way.

Yoshihiro Kozuma (hereinafter Kozuma)Chaumet's unique appeal, I believe, lies in its overwhelming power. Wearing it elevates one's mood, provides a sense of protection and strength, which is why it was loved and supported by historical figures. I think that's why it was loved and supported by past great figures.

Kiki Sugino (hereinafter Sugino)The designs are very glamorous and bold, yet they possess a three-dimensionality and delicacy that blend seamlessly with the skin.




Nanako Yamamoto (hereinafter Yamamoto)It captures the beauty of wildflowers, and a solid philosophy elevates them to nobility. It makes us realize anew the beauty of even the most familiar things, as if to say, "Ah, it was this beautiful." It has a gentle charm like that. It makes us realize anew the beauty of even the most familiar things, as if to say, "Ah, it was this beautiful."



Benoit Piquet (hereinafter Benoit)In the past, luxury probably signified one's status. However, I think luxury brands have spread globally now, and various companies are imitating the image of luxury. Therefore, in the future, not just the image, but the creator's story, the actual craftsmanship of the artisans, and the abilities of the creators will become important elements.


—If we interpret "luxury" as referring to spiritual感動 (kandō - deep emotion/inspiration) that allows us to enjoy ourselves and savor indulgence, then perhaps our surroundings are filled with "luxury" that we can newly discover.




Motonori Miura (hereinafter Miura)Just as music is called an art of time, I feel something irreplaceable in the moment and occasion of playing. It's a state of being fulfilled, and sometimes I find myself moved while playing. In Gagaku, performers, and even dancers, do not wear their costumes outside of performances. There is a luxury in that only the performers and audience can witness the completed work during the performance. The process, the thoughts, and the passion leading up to that moment all come together.

BenoitAs an editor, it's a kind of hobby for me too, but the moment I walk around Tokyo, find a shop I've never heard of, go inside, and hear the story of the shop from the owner and staff, I experience a sense of happiness.




—Just as Chaumet's muse, Joséphine, challenged the values of her time with her refined sensibility and free curiosity, perhaps the role of luxury in guiding eras through creation is changing.

SuginoI feel a great sense of frustration with the film industry, where originality and diversity are gradually being lost. That's precisely why, when I watch works that show me a new world, I feel it's a truly luxurious experience. I believe that uniqueness and diversity are luxury, and I think these are what are necessary for Japan's future, for the world, and for our lives. It's about pursuing originality with one's own philosophy and ideas. I believe that fostering the imagination of the audience, not just the creators, leads to a richer society.

KozumaI believe that unchanging things, or things that cannot change, that is, a kind of spiritual core, are connected to luxury. In recent years, I feel that fundamental thinking and understanding have become diluted in various situations. To create something durable that will not easily break, I want to carefully and meticulously create something new, putting in time and effort. Of course, a balance with cost and time is necessary.

—Will the inspiration and new possibilities brought about by luxury influence what the creators gathered at SALON de CHAUMET will disseminate from now on?

SasakiI hope to find new value in deep communication. The dialogue through this salon was a truly luxurious time. It's a means for mutual growth, where you listen to the other person, accept their words without judgment, speak yourself, and grow together. I feel that I would like to achieve such moments in my work as an interviewer and MC.

MiuraI want to find true value in things that are invisible or are being lost but are important. And to realize and express them ourselves. Even in a single musical performance, it's not just the sound that is actually played; the space between the notes, the way the breath is controlled, the breathing of others – you realize that these seemingly invisible elements are surprisingly important. I think that only by considering these factors can music truly possess its power.

YamamotoI want art to be something that people can comfortably engage with every day, like a wonderful piece of clothing that makes you excited to wear, rather than something that feels intimidating or difficult because you don't know the background. Art accompanying the ordinary, irreplaceable days of today. Perhaps my goal is to create such a scene.



Mariko OGATA
Born in Tokyo in 1978. Joined Hakuhodo in 2001, where she excelled as a copywriter. She has worked on advertisements for LUMINE, Shiseido, Tokyo Marine & Nichido Anshin Life Insurance, Kirin Brewery, and Nissan Motor, among others. She has won numerous awards, including the Grand Prix at the Asahi Advertising Awards. "If You Remember in the Fitting Room, It's True Love" (Gentosha Bunko) is her first novel. She also serves as the editor-in-chief of the magazine "Kōkoku."

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