Lydia Courteille’s Jewel Joins the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris:

January 20, 2015

By Katerina Perez

2 min read

Lydia Courteille‘s career as a jewellery designer began in the 1980s and now her artwork is known all over the world. As a mark of recognition of her unusual creative style, Lydia’s ‘Autodafé’ ring has been granted a place in the permanent jewellery collection at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris.

The museum itself houses a collection of 1200 works by French jewellers spanning from the Middle Ages right up to the present day. Jewellery made by such outstanding masters of the 20th Century as JAR and Laurence Baumer has been put on display in a separate hall.

Lydia Courteille

Lydia Courteille

Now this ring by Lydia Courteille has been added to this collection, and the designer is more than deserving of the accolade. ‘I am extremely flattered and happy that my work is being exhibited among such great jewellery artists. It is a great mark of recognition,’ remarked Lydia. The committee members who selected Courteille’s work wanted to add a piece which would reflect the designer’s original style of jewellery. It could be characterised as Gothic with elements of Romantic, and among Lydia’s works there are a number of rings, pendants and earrings which feature skulls, crosses and different symbols.  But at the same time, she does not shy away from making pieces containing motifs closer to the heart, such as flowers, animals and insects.

The ‘Autodafé’ ring takes the form of a cross made from black gold,  a jewellery material with which the designer is well acquainted. The cross is completely covered in black diamonds and outlined along the edges with miniature enamelled flowers. ‘This piece takes on two of my favourite subjects: symbols and religion. It is also an example of the incredible craftsmanship of my work,’ the artist explained. So, if you find yourself in the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris, I recommend having a look at the breathtaking exhibition of French jewellery and, of course, make sure you spare a moment for the collection’s exciting new addition.

Lydia Courteille

Lydia Courteille

Photos are courtesy of Lydia Courteille

A&W Mouzannar: Our Vision Has Evolved From The Designs That Our Ancestors Created

continue reading

Exceptional Splendour: Jaipur Gems Celebrates 50 Years with Abu Dhabi Opening and New High Jewels 

Let me take you on a behind-the-scenes tour of the new Abu Dhabi boutique and share some of my sparkling highlights

by Katerina Perez

Radiating Confidence: The Mother-Daughter Energy Behind Growing Brand Aponine

As one of this year’s Couture show debutants, Turkish brand Aponine impressed me with its blend of colourful creativity, timeless elegance, and stylish femininity. Let’s take a closer look…

by Katerina Perez

Sensual Silhouettes: Jewels with Curves in All the Right Places

Is it getting hot in here, or is it just us? As jewellers swap sharp lines for shapely swirls, we look at new collections that are embracing the raw power of sensuality inspired by the female form

by Rachael Taylor

Artistic Realms: The Enchanting Natural World of Histoire D’Elle

I had the pleasure of speaking with Pascale Van Maele, the Brand Manager of Histoire d'Elle, which celebrates the deep-rooted connection between quiet femininity, elegance and natural forms. Let's explore together…

by Sarah Jordan

Spinel Stories: Celebrating the Special Allure of Spinels with the House of Gübelin 

I visited the Geneva boutique of the family-owned business to indulge my passion for this overlooked gemstone and explore some of its beautiful creations…

by Katerina Perez

Golden Hour: Cosmic Creations in the Chanel Reach for the Stars High Jewellery Collection

The Reach for the Stars collection bounces between cosmic constellations of diamonds, elaborate, almost mythological neckwear, and starbursts of coloured stones, all with the Maison’s Parisian flair

by Sarah Jordan

Ultimate Guide to Promise Rings: What They Mean, How to Wear One and Where to Buy

While the promise ring's meaning has evolved, its emotional weight remains, making it especially popular among Gen Z and millennial couples seeking the perfect, personal pre-engagement jewel

by Claire Roberts

Exquisite Escapes: The Idyllic Inspirations Behind the Diorexquis High Jewellery Collection

In early May 2025, Dior Joaillerie's Artistic Director Victoire de Castellane showcased an unprecedented high jewellery collection, Diorexquis, to more than 300 VIPs at the Château de la Colle Noire in the heart of Provence. Let's take a closer look…

by Katerina Perez

Millionaire Products: Celebrating the No-Expense-Spared Bvlgari Polychroma High Jewellery Collection

Bvlgari is opening a magnificent new chapter in the world of high jewellery, and high jewellery watches with the Polychroma collection. Here's what I have discovered so far…

by Katerina Perez

Sea of Wonder: Celebrating the Ocean’s Endless Bounty with the Tiffany & Co. Blue Book 2025

Here are some of the creations that became an integral part of the Tiffany & Co. underwater world, including starfish, crashing waves and sea turtles…

by Katerina Perez

The Psychology of Jewellery: Why We Adorn Ourselves

From the earliest civilisations to contemporary fashion catwalks, humans have consistently sought ways to embellish themselves. Transcending mere decoration, jewellery acts as a powerful expression of identity, status and emotion. Whether it's the intricate beadwork of ancient societies or the minimalist designs of modern artisans, our choices in adornment reveal layers of personal and cultural narratives. 

by Claire Roberts

Gem Renaissance: Insights from GemGenève Talk on Coloured Gemstones

One of the most exciting shifts in the world of fine jewellery today is the growing appreciation for coloured gemstones, especially those beyond the traditional “Big Three” of rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. So, when the organisers of GemGenève invited me to do a talk, I instantly knew what subject I was going to touch upon - the rise of colour.

by Katerina Perez

Latest Stories

Add articles and images to your favourites. Just

Legacy of Love:The Dreamlike Jewels of Emirati Designer Mariyeh Ghelichkhani

During our meeting in Dubai, we spoke about the importance of family, the sweetness of finding joy through creativity, and the ability to translate dreamy visions and deep feelings into wearable pieces…

by Katerina Perez

Jewels Katerina Perez Loves

Continue Reading

Writing Adventures:Co-Authoring the Book

Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color

by Katerina Perez

Jewellery Insights straight to your inbox

Style Guide

By using this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.