Behind the Design: The Shell Necklace
Revisiting the Archives
The Shell theme is inspired by an archival Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany masterpiece. Reworking its forms while preserving the design’s expressive spirit and intricacy, Chief Artistic Officer Nathalie Verdeille created breathtaking, innovative designs that pay homage to the iconic Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany brooch.
A Transformable Masterpiece
The Shell necklace can be worn as four unique designs resulting from innovative hidden mechanisms that allow the shell motif to detach from the necklace. The top of the shell hinges open to reveal the striking black opal, which can also detach from the piece. A feat of extraordinary craftsmanship, Tiffany’s designers and artisans collaborated to bring this remarkably versatile creation to life.
“There is nothing more modern than pushing boundaries and creating with a passion to explore the unknown. This idea was, of course, close to Jean Schlumberger’s heart as well.”
—Nathalie Verdeille, Chief Artistic Officer, Tiffany & Co.
By the Numbers
Artisans handcrafted this extraordinary design over the span of 1,900 hours with a palette of 209 custom-cut baguette diamonds of over 23 total carats, 285 square diamonds of over 12 total carats, 413 round brilliant diamonds of over 11 total carats, an emerald-cut diamond of over 3 carats—and a striking freeform black opal of over 19 carats.
