Jardin des Rêves necklace | Mellerio
A radiant tribute from the storied French house Mellerio was unveiled in the gardens of Versailles—and it’s impossible to ignore. Crafted as an homage to Marie-Antoinette, the Jardin des Rêves necklace, valued just under $1 million, dazzled under the palace’s golden light.
Unveiling the Mellerio Jardin de Rêves necklace.
At the Helm of Creation Laure-Isabelle Mellerio, 14th-generation Artistic Director and Chairwoman of the world’s oldest family-run jewellery maison, imbued the design with both tradition and bold color. Collaborating with CEO Christophe Mélard, she ensured the piece honored Mellerio’s centuries-old tradition of royal craftsmanship while embracing modern creativity.
At the heart of this joyful parure is a gold filigree pineapple pendant — inspired by the “Grand Ananas” tapestry hidden behind a secret panel in Marie-Antoinette’s private state bedchamber. Each gem cluster is connected by a Mellerio-cut diamond, an iconic oval-in-ellipse motif echoing the pineapple’s organic contours.
The necklace integrates a spectrum of colored gemstones—rubellites, saffron topaz, royal sapphires—together on 18k gold, precisely set with milgrain detailing. Based on a design drawn from Versailles’ private boudoirs, each gem was selected to resonate with the queen’s aesthetic.
In a nod to adaptability, the pineapple pendant detaches and transforms into a single earring—reflecting the heritage of convertible jewellery. Over 500 hours of craftsmanship in Mellerio’s Paris workshops brought this parure to life.
A specially crafted suede jewelry case by Mellerio, recalling the historic “marmotte” trunks once carried by founder Jean-Baptiste Mellerio at the gates of Versailles.
The Jardin des Rêves necklace and earrings presented in their tailor-made case, lined with embroidered Toile de Jouy that reflects the décor of Marie Antoinette’s private chambers.
In 18th-century France, the pineapple was dubbed the “King of Fruits”—a rare emblem of abundance and refinement. Mellerio’s version draws from a painting by Jean‑Baptiste Oudry, once displayed in the queen’s boudoir, turning botanical fantasy into wearable artistry.
Marie Antoinette’s private apartments at the Palace of Versailles
Mellerio has a storied connection with Marie-Antoinette. In 1777, Jean‑Baptiste Mellerio sold the queen a cameo-and-ruby bracelet at Versailles. That historic commission paved the way for the house’s centuries-long relationship with European royalty. The modern Jardin des Rêves set is a contemporary echo of that storied bond.
Photography courtesy of Mellerio.
