Known as the "Cartier of Kiev" and the undisputed rival of the legendary Fabergé, Joseph Marchak opened his jewellery atelier in a depressed district of Kiev in 1878. Within 20 years he became one of the Russian Empire’s most acclaimed jewellers as well as an esteemed supplier to the Tsar.

Upon his death in 1918, Marchak’s entire family emigrated to Paris where his son Alexandre took over the business and opened Marchak’s first shop in France on rue de la Paix. Alexandre, who had already been studying at the Académie des Beaux Arts, infused the Marchak designs with his newly acquired French savvy while carefully preserving their Russian vim.

Marchak’s loyalty to its original Russian vitality paired with its permeability of French fine arts are what have allowed it to flourish for over 100 years. Its creations, which often combine precious stones and common baubles, are consistently coy and unordinary. Our favourites include a porcupine brooch made of mink and diamonds with tiny hidden engraved paws underneath it, and a diamond ring with two secret sapphires surreptitiously slipped under it, giving it a mystifying pink sparkle.

Further distinguishing Marchak in the world of jewellery is its status as the only manufactuerer of Pate de verre in the world.

www.marchak.fr