Louis Vuitton’s departure from his native Jura in 1854 was the precursor to the foundation in Paris of a House that continues to bring unique designs to the world of fashion and fragrances as elegant as they are practical. The emblematic codes lent to his trunks and famous patented canvas feature in the Empreinte fine jewellery collection go one step further by working with the imprint of the nails used on heritage trunks and transforming it into a device that works well in this line of bold and contemporary pieces.
This year, Francesca Amfitheatrof, artistic director of jewellery and watches for Louis Vuitton, extends the line by incorporating the trunk studs’ impressions, LV initials designed by Georges Vuitton in 1896, and openworked monogram flowers into gender-fluid 18-karat yellow, white or pink gold pieces.
The Empreinte collection includes interlaced rings and bracelets that allude to the relationship between loved ones and resemble the leather straps that fasten the luggage of the Maison. The emblematic four-petalled flower appears on medallions that serve as modern talismans, and the cords of bracelets that swing gently in response to the movement of the wrist.
Meanwhile, the long necklace can be worn as a multi-strand bracelet or stacked necklace. Hoop earrings and a diamond-studded pink gold ear cuff make a geometrical statement – a trend with an ongoing appeal. Their versatility is enhanced in that they can be worn individually or mixed and matched to reflect the wearer’s style and personality.
Over the years, Louis Vuitton has collaborated with architects, artists and designers to develop the ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches, jewellery and fragrance pillars of the House, all testament to its reputation for fine craftsmanship.
The unisex Empreinte jewellery line is no exception. Amfitheatrof’s designs draw on the House’s much-loved abstract art forms to create a new energy and refreshed rhythm. Exceptional craftsmanship underpins the immaculate lines and gentle contours of the jewellery ever more potent through the bold application of the leitmotif.
Moreover, Louis Vuitton champions the codes of the Responsible Jewellery Council of which it has been a member since 2012. The moral, social, societal, and environmental principles are applied to its watches and jewellery products, from the extraction of precious stones and metals to their distribution and transformation by the craftsmen of the House.
