the question mark icon

In 1879, Frédéric Boucheron invented a necklace that revolutionized the codes of High Jewelry. At a time when jewelry and outfits still restricted women's bodies, Boucheron gave them the freedom to accessorize by themselves with this claspless necklace, which could be slipped around the neck with an effortless movement. This rare creation became the symbol of a High Jewelry feature ahead of its time. Its asymmetrical shape, unusual for the time, earned it the name of Point d’Interrogation—the question mark. More than 140 years after its creation, it remains one of the symbols of Boucheron's style.

Question Mark Plume de Paon necklace, 1883

when high jewelry meets innovation    

The first drawing of the Question Mark necklace is recorded in 1879 in the Boucheron archives. With its simple choker and lavish motif, the Question Mark made its mark from the outset. This piece of jewelry is innovative in more ways than one, both in form and technique. The first claspless necklace, it offered unprecedented flexibility and freedom of movement, thanks to a leaf spring system. A multitude of small, interlocking components ensure flexibility. This complex mechanism, developed exclusively in Boucheron's workshops, is almost invisible, the signature of excellent savoir-faire. This necklace was one of the Boucheron pieces awarded the Grand Prix at the 1889 Paris Universal Exhibition. At the time, the company's workshops only produced around thirty pieces, but quickly won over an international clientele, from the Russian imperial family to the great American industrial dynasties.  

Question Mark Plume de Paon necklace, 2020

a style icon that's constantly reinvented  

The Question Mark necklace has always been a matter of style. Firstly, for its unique, immediately recognizable asymmetrical shape—a true aesthetic statement for its time (late 19th century). But above all for its ability to transform with the theme and mood. During its first production period between 1881 and 1893, the Question Mark embraced floral, plant, animal, and figurative motifs. Since her arrival in 2011, Creative Director Claire Choisne has reinterpreted and contemporized the Question Mark. Year after year, the Boucheron Studio creates new variations on this great classic.

a sense of style

the quatre icon

In 2004, it all began with a ring. Four motifs from the Boucheron archives, which initially appear to be in stark contrast, have been combined to create a unique aesthetic. With its urban and graphic design, the Quatre collection taps into the Maison's rich heritage, emerging as Boucheron's contemporary signature.  

the serpent bohème icon

Serpent Bohème was born in 1968, in a context of growing freedoms. A true sculpture in gold, this sentimental jewel embodies all the expertise of Boucheron artisans. Since its creation, the collection has possessed a special essence that has allowed it to endure through time and generations, becoming the emblematic vintage icon of the Maison.

the reflet icon

1947: modernism is in full swing, advocating a return to basics. It was in this context that Gérard Boucheron, the grandson of Frédéric Boucheron, envisioned Reflet: a watch with a groundbreaking design that featured, most notably, an invisible clasp hidden within the case. A true innovation, patented by Boucheron in 1944.