Voice of Jewels
L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts 82 épisodes nov. 5, 2026
Voice of Jewels is a podcast by L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. It explores the stories and secrets behind history's most fascinating jewels, from love and separation to myth and curses. Each episode uncovers the hidden narratives of jewelry, revealing moments of glory, revolution, and personal significance. The podcast is available in English and French.
Épisodes
S12E03 - Egyptomania⏐ Tutankhamun and “Tutmania”
In the early 1920s, the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb resulted in a spectacular phenomenon, like few archeological digs had before. This Egyptian fever is summed up in one word: “Tutmania”. Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. Unveiling the stories and secrets behind History’s most fascinating jewels. With the participation of V
S12E02 - Egyptomania⏐ The Scarab of the Castellani Brothers
Drawn from the depths of time in the Egyptian desert, the scarab – a symbol of eternity and reincarnation – is an enduring talisman. It made a remarkable comeback in Rome in the mid-19th century, when a certain Baroness crossed the threshold of the Castellani brothers’ workshop. Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. Unveiling the stori
S12E01 - Egyptomania⏐ The Mysteries of the Golden Falcon of Byblos
In 1923, a French archeologist made a remarkable discovery on the coast of Lebanon: a gold pectoral representing a falcon with outstretched wings. This jewel tells how the land of the Pharaohs inspired and stimulated the creativity of the goldsmiths of Byblos… Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. Unveiling the stories and secrets behi
Discover Egyptomania, a jewelry inspiration
Ancient Egypt is one of humanity’s oldest civilizations. Its pyramids, sarcophagi, hieroglyphs, and mysterious gods have shaped the imagination of artists, creators, and notably jewelers. The jewels inspired by the Egypt of the Pharaohs are at the heart of this new season. Visit a goldsmith’s workshop in Byblos and the boutique of a famous Italian antique dealer, enter Tutankhamun’s tomb, and delv
[Historical Jewels] E04⏐Catherine de Medici's Love Talisman
Have you ever heard of abraxas? These are talismans in the shape of oblong shields, covered with motifs inspired by Egyptian, Greek, and Roman mythology, and engraved with Kabbalistic prayers, Hebrew words, and magical symbols. One could easily believe that these strange jewelry pieces belong to the wizards of tales and legends…And yet, they were made by a human hand! No surprise then that the Que
[Historical Jewels] E03⏐Salammbô, the quintessential femme fatale and the unique brooch by René Lalique
“It was in Megara, a suburb of Carthage, in the gardens of Hamilcar…”This is the opening sentence of Salammbô, Flaubert’s great historical novel, which has become a cult classic. Just like its heroine … the Carthaginian princess with dazzling finery and a tragic destiny.Salammbô was a profound source of inspiration to the artists of the Belle Époque and particularly, one of its avant-garde jeweler
[Historical Jewels] E02⏐The “lechuga”: the 1,400 emeralds monstrance
In Spanish, the word “lechuga” means lettuce. But it is also the nickname for a sacred object, a monstrance adorned with so many emeralds that it takes on the color of lettuce. These precious stones come from the famous mines of Colombia, known for centuries by the native populations. Even today, these mines are the source of some of the world’s most beautiful emeralds. The monstrance,
[Historical Jewels] E01⏐Jeanne du Barry's Necklace, or the Diamonds of Courtesans
Diamonds are often thought to have been exclusively reserved for kings and queens, treasures meant for royalty. However, there is another category of individuals who adorned themselves with these precious gems, treating them as trophies and even weapons for liberation - the courtesans!At the forefront of these courtesans is a woman whose romantic destiny captivates hearts and even opens the Cannes
Delve into the historical jewels of L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
Some jewels are like history books… The most beautiful and mysterious pieces have often belonged to famous figures, and the events they have witnessed are worthy of an adventure novel! This summer, Voice of Jewels invites you on a voyage through space and time, from ancient Carthage to Versailles and Bogota, to the Age of Enlightenment, as well as taking in the intrigues of the French court during
[Myths and legends of gems] E04⏐Nero and the Emerald
In Emerald City, the enchanted city in The Wizard of Oz, everyone wears glasses with green lenses. But did you know that this practice actually dates back to ancient times? To a Roman emperor in fact, and his passion for a precious green stone: the emerald. For centuries, the emerald was believed to have almost magical properties, including the ability to improve eyesight. Fascinat
[Myths and legends of gems] E03⏐The First Pearl
Pearls have always been considered precious. Almost miraculous. According to more than one legend, they fell to Earth from the Moon! Others say that they are the fruit of thunder. Some say that they are the seed or even the tears of the gods…That is why the attempt to find the very first pearl is a fascinating quest, shrouded in mystery!Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Ar
[Myths and legends of gems] E02⏐The Final Mysteries of the Great Blue Diamond
The Hope Diamond has lived through its own veritable Odyssey. From the time of its first sale in London at the beginning of the 18th century, all the way to its sudden appearance in Washington, hidden in a brown paper envelope with a two dollar postmark …This fabulous blue diamond is now at home under high-security glass in the Smithsonian Institute. And yet, this heavenly-colored gem still oozes
[Myths and legends of gems] E01⏐The Jade Bracelets of China’s Empress Cixi
This is the penultimate chapter in the story of Cixi, Empress Dowager of the Qing dynasty, renowned for her enduring love of different types of jade. Even more precious than gold or diamonds, jade is considered the ultimate good luck charm. Over time, it has become a symbol associated with China’s emperors and empresses. Steeped in legends and myths, jade is believed to bring wisdom to all those w
Discover the myths and legends of gems of L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
Since the dawn of time, precious stones have been a source of wonder. Their beauty is such that secret virtues are sometimes attributed to them. Thus, the rarest gemstones have accompanied princes and princesses, adventurers and poets… Voice of Jewels adorns itself in green, blue, and a myriad of iridescent reflections, inviting you to rediscover the legends and histories
S11E04 - Voyage of Gemstones⏐Peridot, the gem that fell from the sky
My name is peridot. I am a transparent green gemstone. I was discovered by chance in the center of Patagonia… But I arrived there after a long and perilous journey through stars and sky. While most peridot stones are born in the Earth’s crust, my origin is rather different… I am extraterrestrial. Voice of Jewels is a podcast by L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, with the support
S11E03 - Voyage of Gemstones⏐The great journey of precious red coral
What am I? A mineral? A plant? Or... an animal? I am called Corallium rubrum, Precious Red Coral, and I have sparked many lively debates in my time! Not only was my classification difficult to determine but to find me, curiosity is required... I am hard to find! One has to dive deep into the depths. Voice of Jewels is a podcast b
S11E02 - Voyage of Gemstones⏐The Blue Routes of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis-lazuli…The blue stone… Pliny the Elder described me as “a fragment of the starry firmament.” My color—ultramarine, a deep blue flecked with gold—has led many to believe that I am the gem of the gods. I have traveled practically all around the world and have even given rise to one of the oldest trade routes… Voice of Jewels is a podcast by L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts,
S11E01 - Voyage of Gemstones⏐The dazzling rise of the diamond
I am the Cullinan Diamond, and I come from far away. Very far away, in fact. From the farthest reaches of the Universe and the depths of the Earth. Let me tell you about my remarkable journey… Voice of Jewels is a podcast by L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels. With the participation of Laetitia Gilles Guery, gemologist and pro
Delve into the Voyage of Gemstones
One might think that gemstones, natural treasures adorning jewelry and ornaments, are static and immutable. But the reality is rather different and their history is one of constant movement. In this season, be prepared to traverse the layers of the Earth with the diamond, to wander Oriental trade routes in search of lapis lazuli, to explore t
[Precious romances] E04⏐Rihanna's Wedding Grillz, or the Making of a Myth
Ever wondered why lovers kneel on one knee to ask, “will you marry me”? It’s actually less about the kneeling - it’s more about the ring…Engagement rings are part of a tradition which dates back to Ancient Rome. They symbolized a legally binding commitment, reserved for the most solemn of oaths. Pretty unromantic...Things have changed quite a bit since ancient times… asking somebody’s hand is some
[Precious romances] E03⏐La Peregrina
Richard Burton, one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors, decided to give his beloved an extraordinary piece of jewelry... For Richard’s heart belonged to a star. An immense, internationally renowned star by the name of Elizabeth Taylor.And his gift is unlike any other... It's a royal pearl, once worn by the queens of England and Spain: La Peregrina.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, Scho
[Precious romances] E02⏐Napoleon’s Immortal Scarab Beetle
Can a piece of jewelry save a life? Or guarantee eternity? Napoleon Bonaparte believed this to be the case. His military campaigns around the world had already introduced him to the supernatural power of jewelry... But it was after escaping death a first time that his faith in the power of jewelry was properly set. So much so that he imagined a strange talisman, a lucky charm and symbol of his lov
[Precious romances] E01⏐Lou's Ring, or Apollinaire's War Poems
Did you know that in the trenches of World War I, soldiers made... jewelry? In the chaos and horror of war, love still exists! But how did a simple aluminum ring, fashioned in the midst of turmoil from a German shell, end up at the heart of one of the greatest love stories in literature?The wild love of Guillaume Apollinaire for the beautiful and rebellious Lou... This is the story of a rudimentar
Delve into the precious romances of L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
Every love story is unique. Some are secrets, others famous. Some are fairy tales, while others have a more tragic ending… Rare and elusive loves, sealed in incredible jewels. In this season of love, Voice of Jewels invites you to rediscover unforgettable romances symbolized by: a steel ring, a talisman shrouded in mystery, a wandering pearl… and even famous grillz! Voice of Jewels
[Winter tales] E04⏐The Captivating Hope Diamond
[Winter tales]Imagine a story at times tragic yet at other times magical with a lost diamond as its common thread… a blue diamond standing for hope and fortune, love and special feelings... The Heart of the Ocean, the jewel at the core of the Titanic movie's plot.But the Heart of the Ocean is no fictitious jewel. It was inspired by a real jewel and an equally famous diamond, the Hope diamond.Voice
[Winter tales] E03⏐The Man with a Midas touch
[Winter tales]From museums to exhibit spaces, one cannot stop marveling at this artist’s work. Daniel Brush had a golden touch. Painter and sculptor, Brush crafts gold with finesse and creativity, as if he were an alchemist. He can improvise with as much spontaneous creativity as a jazz musician during a jamming session…The Second Dome is one of his most iconic creations. This small gold dome is a
[Winter tales] E02⏐The Hidden treasure of Colmar
[Winter tales] Some treasures tell beautiful stories. Others are connected to tragedies...As is the case with the Jewish Treasure of Colmar.Hidden in dramatic circumstances, it was miraculously preserved. The treasure, comprising objects of a rare luxury, along with more modest items, is the witness to a past filled with darkness, but also with light.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, S
[Winter tales] E01⏐Tolkien and the power of the ring
[Winter tales]Some jewels have only ever existed in books, and this is probably why they are so famous. Tolkien’s rings are amongst those mythical jewels found only in fiction, created thanks to their talented author. However, Tolkien did in fact, attempt to anchor his iconic rings to a true story and it is possible that a very real jewel served as his inspiration.This is the story of a magic ring
Discover the winter selection of L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
The most extraordinary tales are born when Christmas draws near... As winter comes, nights fall early and flames flicker in the hearth, that’s when stories come to life. Perhaps echoing the gifts we love to exchange this time of year, these tales often feature… jewels. During the Holiday Season, Voice of Jewels invites you to revisit episodes about the ring of power, the treasure o
S10E04 - Emerald⏐The “lechuga”: the 1,400 emeralds monstrance
In Spanish, the word “lechuga” means lettuce. But it is also the nickname for a sacred object, a monstrance adorned with so many emeralds that it takes on the color of lettuce. These precious stones come from the famous mines of Colombia, known for centuries by the native populations. Even today, these mines are the source of some of the world’s most beautiful emeralds. The monstrance,
S10E03 - Emerald⏐The Buried Treasure of Prince Liangzhuang
In 2001, in the village of Dahong, nestled in the heart of China’s Hubei province, the Lunar New Year was in full swing. As fireworks illuminated the night sky, another series of explosions, muffled and more sinister, suddenly resonated deep in the nearby mountain… The villagers immediately realized that tomb robbers were about to strike, and they alerted the police. Although the locatio
S10E02 - Emerald⏐On the trail of the Topkapi Dagger
Since antiquity, emeralds have frequently been seen as symbols of eternity. Yet, paradoxically, they are often at the heart of stories where time is counted. As is the case here. This is the story of a dagger intended for Nadir Shah. When a story begins with a dagger, we usually expect a crime or a tragedy... But this blade is unique. Encrusted with gigantic emeralds—including some of the mos
S10E01 - Emerald⏐Nero and the Emerald
In Emerald City, the enchanted city in The Wizard of Oz, everyone wears glasses with green lenses. But did you know that this practice actually dates back to ancient times? To a Roman emperor in fact, and his passion for a precious green stone: the emerald. For centuries, the emerald was believed to have almost magical properties, including the ability to improve eyesight. Fascinat
Discover The Emerald: a green epic
“Follow the yellow brick road to Emerald City…” In The Wizard of Oz, as elsewhere, the emerald is synonymous with mystery, desire, and wonder. And indeed, how could one not be awed? Its hypnotic green color, its refinement, and its preciousness... A symbol of power, protection, or love, depending on the culture, it has become one of the most iconic stones in jewelry. Since antiquity, th
[Back to School] E04⏐A Craddle of Pearls
[Back to School]Far from being round and regular, “baroque pearls” have strange and unique shapes. Long considered wonders of nature, they inspired goldsmiths throughout the Renaissance and into the Baroque and Neo-Classical periods. Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici, known as the last descendent of the House of Medici, had a passion for such pearls.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jew
[Back to School] E03⏐A bouquet of roses by Van Cleef & Arpels
[Back to School]Where do new ideas come from? What is the genesis of those masterpieces that have redefined Modernity?At the beginning of the 20th century, a revolutionary artistic movement emerged, with the ambition of changing everything. This movement was Art Deco. A new style, with clean, pure lines that owes its name to an event with global repercussions, held in Paris in 1925: The Internatio
[Back to School] E02⏐The extraordinary academician’s sword of Jean Cocteau
[Back to School]It's well known that the sword is the prerogative of knights and musketeers. But did you know that the weapon could also be transformed into a living symbol of the talents of men and women of letters? And sometimes even into exceptional pieces of jewellery...In 1955, Jean Cocteau faced a major challenge: to become the first academician to design his own sword.Voice of Jewels, a pod
[Back to School] E01⏐The Infinity Gauntlet, a superpowered piece of jewelry
[Back to School]Some superheroes draw their powers from precious stones. Well, gems, to be more precise. Gems that are endowed with the power to control time or space, or even the mind.This is the saga of an out of this world piece of jewelry that was first published in an American comic book in the early 70’s, and now brought to the silver screen by Marvel Studios. Six primordial stones which, af
Discover the back-to-school selection of L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
September is here, ushering in a wind of change. For some, it’s back to schoolbags, notebooks… a promise of knowledge that can sparks vocations and sometimes changes lives! For others, it’s the season of novels, literary revelations, and ink-and-paper gems that leave a lasting mark. To celebrate the new school year, Voice of Jewels invites you to brush up on your classics by revisiting episod
[Summer of Epics] E04⏐The sunken treasure of Belitung
[Summer of Epics]Some treasures disappear forever ... but others resurface.Like the sunken treasure of Belitung.Once submerged in a reef, somewhere in the Java Sea, the treasure now holds pride of place, in the heart of the Asian Civilizations Museum in Singapore.Presented in a display that evokes the benevolent and impetuous waves on which it once sailed, the Belitung Treasure contains remarkable
[Summer of Epics] E03⏐Jackie Cochran’s Charm Necklace
[Summer of Epics]Pilots are sometimes superstitious, and Jackie Cochran, one of the first female pilots in the American Air Force, is no exception… She is never injured and never has an accident. Her luck seems endless. But there is a reason for this, a necklace assembling a variety of lucky charms into a single object. A charm necklace…a piece of jewelry said to bring good luck wherever its weare
[Summer of Epics] E02⏐Corto Maltese’s Gold Earring
[Summer of Epics]In comics, jewels are often at the core of the plot. But they also may be the hero’s attribute like in the adventures of Corto Maltese, the famous romantic pirate born out of the imagination of Italian author Hugo Pratt in 1967.What turned Corto Maltese into an icon is precisely the jewel he always wears on his left ear : a gold hoop earring.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE
[Summer of Epics] E01⏐The Pre-Columbian Claw Necklace
[Summer of Epics]Many legends have been told about the gold of Pre-Columbian civilisations of the Americas. Imagine… Finding gold deep in the middle of the jungle is a dream that has long tantalized the Western world. The peoples of South America did leave traces and genuine treasures behind them…Among these wonders, there is an odd, striking piece which looks as sublime as it is frightening: the
Discover Summer of Epics, a summer special series from L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
Summer is the season of getaways and grand adventures! It’s the perfect time for Voice of Jewels to whisk you far from home… across turquoise waters, into emerald-colored jungles, and even up into silver-tinted clouds! Rediscover an impressive necklace made of golden claws, a lucky charm belonging to a fearless aviator, a pirate’s earring hiding a tender heart - and even a fabulous treasure,
S09E04 - Art Deco⏐Paris-Shanghai, a dialog of styles
In Paris, in the 1920s, a myriad of languages was spoken. Elegant ladies from all over the world flocked to the French capital to shop to their heart’s content. The city, a veritable crossroads of influences, drew inspiration from the most diverse sources. But if there was one country whose charms enchanted high society, it was China. Shanghai was on everyone’s lips. The exotic name made people
S09E03 - Art Deco⏐Josephine Baker’s secret bracelet
Can jewelry be used as an instrument in liberation or a tool in the struggle for freedom? It is the early 20th century. The world is abuzz with countless battles: those that tear nations apart, but also those for women’s rights.It is in this tumultuous context that the Art Deco movement emerges.The jewelry pieces born from this artistic movement become symbols of modernity, freedom, and audac
S09E02 - Art Deco⏐Raymond Templier, a passion for speed
Movie stars have always worn jewelry. In the 1920s, the Art Deco style gradually took over red carpets and film reels. Worn by some of the greatest actresses of the day, from Louise Brooks to Brigitte Helm, Art-Deco jewelry was the epitome of modern beauty. Raymond Templier, one of the leading jewelry-makers of that time, seized this opportunity to free his creations from tradition, and mark
S09E01 - Art Deco⏐A bouquet of roses by Van Cleef & Arpels
Where do new ideas come from? What is the genesis of those masterpieces that have redefined Modernity?At the beginning of the 20th century, a revolutionary artistic movement emerged, with the ambition of changing everything. This movement was Art Deco. A new style, with clean, pure lines that owes its name to an event with global repercussions, held in Paris in 1925: The International Exhibition o
Delve into the splendor of Art Deco treasures
Jewelry is often turned towards the future… In the interwar period, changes were stirring in the world of creative design. Jewelry was imbued with Modernity: radical forms, new materials, speed, lightness... These novel jewelry pieces reflected the changing standards of beauty.In this new season, Voice of Jewels takes listeners to the heart of a creative explosion, where daring women and secrets a
S08E04 - Treasure⏐The Secret Treasure of the High Priest of Pop Art
He is known as the most important American artist of the second half of the 20th century. A Pop icon par excellence, rumor has it that he once declared: “It would be glamorous to be reincarnated as a great big ring on Liz Taylor’s finger.” In a sense, that is exactly what he did. When he died, a veritable treasure trove was discovered, hidden in his apartment, including a small diamond heart conta
S08E03 - Treasure⏐The Hidden treasure of Colmar
Some treasures tell beautiful stories. Others are connected to tragedies...As is the case with the Jewish Treasure of Colmar.Hidden in dramatic circumstances, it was miraculously preserved. The treasure, comprising objects of a rare luxury, along with more modest items, is the witness to a past filled with darkness, but also with light.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Art
S08E02 - Treasure⏐An Urban Treasure : The Cheapside Hoard
Treasures have been found at the bottom of the sea, in the jungle, in fields … usually far removed from human habitation. But there have been some remarkable exceptions! A few feet underground, in the middle of one of London’s busiest streets, the Cheapside wooden chest managed to conceal its secrets for three hundred years. Without doubt, the most urban treasure story imaginable.Voice of Jewels,
S08E01 - Treasure⏐The sunken treasure of Belitung
Some treasures disappear forever ... but others resurface.Like the sunken treasure of Belitung.Once submerged in a reef, somewhere in the Java Sea, the treasure now holds pride of place, in the heart of the Asian Civilizations Museum in Singapore.Presented in a display that evokes the benevolent and impetuous waves on which it once sailed, the Belitung Treasure contains remarkable riches.It is als
Discover the tales of history's great treasures
Swallowed by the sea, buried, hidden behind walls or concealed…True treasure troves have always known the best place to hide. And when to reappear and surprise us!Harboring tales worthy of an adventure novel, they often contain fascinating secrets.In this new season of The Voice of Jewels, we travel from the Java Sea to the entrails of London to medieval Colmar in the east of France… We even make
S07E04 - Literature⏐Tolkien and the power of the ring
Some jewels have only ever existed in books, and this is probably why they are so famous. Tolkien’s rings are amongst those mythical jewels found only in fiction, created thanks to their talented author. However, Tolkien did in fact, attempt to anchor his iconic rings to a true story and it is possible that a very real jewel served as his inspiration.This is the story of a magic ring and a curse.
S07E03 - Literature⏐Salammbô, the quintessential femme fatale and the unique brooch by René Lalique
“It was in Megara, a suburb of Carthage, in the gardens of Hamilcar…”This is the opening sentence of Salammbô, Flaubert’s great historical novel, which has become a cult classic. Just like its heroine … the Carthaginian princess with dazzling finery and a tragic destiny.Salammbô was a profound source of inspiration to the artists of the Belle Époque and particularly, one of its avant-garde jeweler
S07E02 - Literature⏐Sarah Bernhardt, the Jewels of The Princess Faraway
In 1895, Sarah Bernhardt, then known as ‘the empress of the theatre’, had just acquired a theatre in Paris, on the Place du Châtelet: the Théâtre de la Renaissance. And to launch it, she needed a play. Or rather: a success. Sarah Bernhardt commissioned a young up-and-coming playwright, Edmond Rostand, to write a historical drama in her honour, entitled La Princesse lointaine. To further her triump
S07E01 - Literature⏐The extraordinary academician’s sword of Jean Cocteau
It's well known that the sword is the prerogative of knights and musketeers. But did you know that the weapon could also be transformed into a living symbol of the talents of men and women of letters? And sometimes even into exceptional pieces of jewellery...In 1955, Jean Cocteau faced a major challenge: to become the first academician to design his own sword.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOL
Discover the history of these jewels from the pages of some of the most beautiful works of literature
Jewels can tell stories… they can also inspire them…The greatest writers, actresses, and poets have forged masterpieces from jewels, gems, and precious metals. While some pieces really exist, others do so only in the realm of the imagination.This new season of Voice of Jewels takes listeners on a journey of discovery… From a cursed gold ring to the sparkling crown of a princess in love to a most u
S06E04 - Talismans⏐The Jade Bracelets of China’s Empress Cixi
This is the penultimate chapter in the story of Cixi, Empress Dowager of the Qing dynasty, renowned for her enduring love of different types of jade. Even more precious than gold or diamonds, jade is considered the ultimate good luck charm. Over time, it has become a symbol associated with China’s emperors and empresses. Steeped in legends and myths, jade is believed to bring wisdom to all those w
S06E03 - Talismans⏐Napoleon’s Immortal Scarab Beetle
Can a piece of jewelry save a life? Or guarantee eternity? Napoleon Bonaparte believed this to be the case. His military campaigns around the world had already introduced him to the supernatural power of jewelry... But it was after escaping death a first time that his faith in the power of jewelry was properly set. So much so that he imagined a strange talisman, a lucky charm and symbol of his lov
S06E02 - Talismans⏐Catherine de Medici's Love Talisman
Have you ever heard of abraxas? These are talismans in the shape of oblong shields, covered with motifs inspired by Egyptian, Greek, and Roman mythology, and engraved with Kabbalistic prayers, Hebrew words, and magical symbols. One could easily believe that these strange jewelry pieces belong to the wizards of tales and legends… And yet, they were made by a human hand! No surprise then that the Qu
S06E01 - Talismans⏐Jackie Cochran’s Charm Necklace
Pilots are sometimes superstitious, and Jackie Cochran, one of the first female pilots in the American Air Force, is no exception… She is never injured and never has an accident. Her luck seems endless. But there is a reason for this, a necklace assembling a variety of lucky charms into a single object. A charm necklace…a piece of jewelry said to bring good luck wherever its wearer. Even in the sk
Discover the Secrets of Talisman Jewelry
There’s something enchanting about jewelry. Some pieces more than others… Imagine a bracelet with the power to win the favor of the gods, an amulet that makes someone fall in love, and a ring that brings eternal life!Down through the centuries, some of history’s greatest men and women have used talismans in their quest for sovereignty or protection. Discover their fascinating powers in this latest
[Summer Odysseys] E04⏐One Piece, on a quest to pirate treasures
The origins of a jewel often lie in a story of adventures…Eiichiro Oda’s manga One Piece is one of the most popular manga in the history of comics.In typical shonen fashion - a shonen is a tale of adventure and initiation – One Piece tells the story of a young hero on a quest for nothing less than… a treasure!Discover the full season "Iconic Jewels of Comic Books"Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’
[Summer Odysseys] E03⏐The First Pearl
The origins of a jewel often lie in a story of adventures…Pearls have always been considered precious. Almost miraculous. According to more than one legend, they fell to Earth from the Moon! Others say that they are the fruit of thunder. Some say that they are the seed or even the tears of the gods…That is why the attempt to find the very first pearl is a fascinating quest, shrouded in mystery!Dis
[Summer Odysseys] E02⏐The Rao Golden Pectoral
The origins of a jewel often lie in a story of adventures…If I told you there is an African country whose soil harbors a mineral with amazing powers that is used for making stunning, magical objects! Well, this country does exist and is no imaginary land. And the fascinating metal that was extracted from it was none other than gold. It’s the gold that jewels and holy objects were made out of. The
[Summer Odysseys] E01⏐Louis XIV’s Great Blue Diamond
The origins of a jewel often lie in a story of adventures…Our journey takes us around the world, from the Indian empire to King Louis XIV’s court in Versailles. It is one of the world’s most famous diamonds as well as probably the most intriguing. It disrupted the lives of all who approached it, including that of Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, the man who discovered it.Discover the full season "The Blue
Discover The Great Odysseys, a summer special series from L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts
The origins of a jewel often lie in a story of adventures… The quest of those who crossed oceans, traveled around continents and conquered our imaginations. They explored buried treasures from pre-Columbian kingdoms to the Indian Ocean, via the shores of the United Arab Emirates. A treasure quest through History with 4 episodes highlights from previous seasons.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCO
S05E04 - Pearls⏐Marilyn's Pearls
Forget gold chains and big stones! One of the most sought-after accessories for male celebrities in Hollywood and elsewhere is none other than the pearl necklace!A$AP Rocky, Usher, Joe Jonas, Harry Styles, Timothée Chalamet, Shawn Mendes, Pharrell Williams… The list of wearers and admirers is endless. But do you know the story behind Marilyn Monroe’s pearl necklace? Or the secrets of cultured pear
S05E03 - Pearls⏐A Craddle of Pearls
Far from being round and regular, “baroque pearls” have strange and unique shapes. Long considered wonders of nature, they inspired goldsmiths throughout the Renaissance and into the Baroque and Neo-Classical periods. Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici, known as the last descendent of the House of Medici, had a passion for such pearls.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts suppor
S05E02 - Pearls⏐La Peregrina
Richard Burton, one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors, decided to give his beloved an extraordinary piece of jewelry... For Richard’s heart belonged to a star. An immense, internationally renowned star by the name of Elizabeth Taylor.And his gift is unlike any other... It's a royal pearl, once worn by the queens of England and Spain: La Peregrina.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, Scho
S05E01 - Pearls⏐The First Pearl
Pearls have always been considered precious. Almost miraculous. According to more than one legend, they fell to Earth from the Moon! Others say that they are the fruit of thunder. Some say that they are the seed or even the tears of the gods…That is why the attempt to find the very first pearl is a fascinating quest, shrouded in mystery!Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Ar
Discover the Legend of Pearls
Tears of Aphrodite or drops fallen from the sky, symbols of purity and majesty... Pearls have long been a source of fascination.The latest season of Voice of Jewels takes you on a journey... Meet pearl fishermen from Neolithic times, a famous Renaissance queen, and two of Hollywood’s best-loved stars. Get ready to embark on a quest to discover jewelry masterpieces inspired by pearls.Voice of Jewel
S04EP04 - Jewels & Comics⏐Castafiore's Stolen Jewels
She’s undoubtedly the most famous opera singer in the world. Chased by journalists from around the world, every one of her recitals at La Scala in Milan, or at the Metropolitan in New York have unleashed passions. Of course, I am talking about Bianca Castafiore. We might have never been able to hear her voice but we’re all familiar with her figure, her accent and her character. And possibly most o
S04E03 - Jewels & Comics⏐The Infinity Gauntlet, a superpowered piece of jewelry
Some superheroes draw their powers from precious stones. Well, gems, to be more precise. Gems that are endowed with the power to control time or space, or even the mind.This is the saga of an out of this world piece of jewelry that was first published in an American comic book in the early 70’s, and now brought to the silver screen by Marvel Studios. Six primordial stones which, after they have be
S04E02 - Jewels & Comics⏐Corto Maltese’s Gold Earring
In comics, jewels are often at the core of the plot. But they also may be the hero’s attribute like in the adventures of Corto Maltese, the famous romantic pirate born out of the imagination of Italian author Hugo Pratt in 1967. What turned Corto Maltese into an icon is precisely the jewel he always wears on his left ear : a gold hoop earring.Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewe
S04E01 - Jewels & Comics⏐One Piece, on a quest to pirate treasures
Eiichiro Oda’s manga One Piece is one of the most popular manga in the history of comics.In typical shonen fashion - a shonen is a tale of adventure and initiation – One Piece tells the story of a young hero on a quest for nothing less than… a treasure!Voice of Jewels, a podcast from L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. Unveiling the stories and secrets behind Histo
Discover Iconic Jewels of Comic Books
Anything can happen in comic books. You can own beautiful jewels, steal them or even find magical precious objects capable of changing destiny! Indeed, jewels and comic books share a common history filled with adventures and beauty.Voice of Jewels' new season explores the world of manga and comics of all kinds. Let us take you on an adventure filled with pirate’s treasures, gems with supernatural
S03E04 - Gold's Amazing Saga⏐The Man with a Midas touch
From museums to exhibit spaces, one cannot stop marveling at this artist’s work. Daniel Brush had a golden touch. Painter and sculptor, Brush crafts gold with finesse and creativity, as if he were an alchemist. He can improvise with as much spontaneous creativity as a jazz musician during a jamming session…The Second Dome is one of his most iconic creations. This small gold dome is a childhood dre
