Boucheron's Quatre Novelties collection isn't afraid to break the rules
Introduced in 2004, Boucheron's Quatre collection was all about adding a dash of contemporary, graphic character to the maison. Since then the collection has grown to embody one of the best qualities of the 163-year-old brand: Its willingness to experiment and toy with established codes in fine jewellery.
This year, Boucheron adds even more pieces to the gender-neutral collection. We're particular enamoured with the two new ear clips: The M Quatre Black Edition offers a bit of rebellious edge by contrasting black PVD with diamonds and white gold, while the sleek M Quatre Radiant Edition comes with a sensual openwork design that reveals the bare skin of the ear.
Other new pieces include a series of wedding rings that play on a bold contrast of materials, and two new pendants that were made for creative layering. British writer and model Alexa Chung stars in the new campaign; Boucheron says that in Chung's "audacious" sense of style, they've found a kindred spirit.
The Quatre line gets its name from the four different design motifs found in the collection, each with its own name and story. The smooth, bevelled edges of the Double Godron symbolises an infinite bond — like the one shared by scion Frédéric Boucheron and his wife Gabrielle — while Grosgrain's delicately pleated shapes pays tribute to Boucheron's childhood as the son of clothier parents.
While those motifs add a surprising bit of delicateness to the Quatre collection, the other two designs are where Boucheron really shows its teeth. Clou de Paris is an architectural silhouette that recalls the cobblestones of the Place Vendôme; Boucheron was said to be the first jeweller to move to the prestigious square. Meanwhile, the Diamants offers up an alluring layer of bling, thanks to an ethereal mirror setting.
