In the world of haute couture, Christian Dior is a name that needs no introduction. From its inception in the 1950s, the Dior brand has been known for its timeless elegance and innovative designs. This reputation extends to its jewellery line, which showcases the same attention to detail and craftsmanship that has made Dior a household name.

The Beginnings of Dior Jewellery

Christian Dior's love of flowers and nature is well-known, and it is no surprise that this passion inspired his early jewellery designs. His first pieces often incorporated floral motifs, such as the iconic "Rose Dior Bagatelle" collection, which featured delicate rose designs made of gold, pearls, and diamonds.

Mitchel Maer, a prominent jewellery designer, joined Dior in 1952 and created some of the most iconic pieces for the brand, including the famous "Fleurs de Cactus" brooch and the legendary "Mise en Dior" necklace. Maer's innovative designs helped to establish the brand's jewellery line as a major player in the world of haute couture.

One of Dior's most famous jewellery collections is the "Granville" collection, created in 1953. The pieces in the collection were designed to reflect the beauty and elegance of the town of Granville in Normandy, where Dior spent his childhood summers.

Dior's jewellery quickly became popular among high society and celebrities, with pieces worn by the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe. The brand's jewellery line continued to expand throughout the 1950s and 1960s, with new designs featuring colourful stones and bold shapes.

The Evolution of Dior Jewellery in the 1960s and 1970s

The 1960s saw a significant shift in the Dior fashion house as Marc Bohan took over as head designer. Bohan introduced new designs that helped to modernize the brand while still staying true to its roots.

One of his most iconic collections, the "Miss Dior" collection, featured bold, geometric shapes inspired by the art deco movement. He also collaborated with Salvador Dali and Fulco di Verdura to create unique and innovative pieces for the brand.

The 1970s saw Dior experimenting with exotic materials and larger, bolder, and more eclectic designs. The "Free Spirits" necklace, designed by Victoire de Castellane, featured a series of large, brightly coloured stones in various shapes and sizes, set in a gold-tone metal in a loose, asymmetrical pattern, giving it a relaxed and bohemian feel. The "Bamboo" necklace and the "Choker D" necklace were other iconic pieces from this era, capturing the disco era's glamour and excess.

Dior in the 1980s and 90s

The 1980s was a time of bold fashion and extravagant style, and Dior jewellery was no exception. The brand continued to experiment with innovative designs, incorporating unique materials and colours into their pieces.

The "Bijoux de Dior" collection featured large, statement pieces with intricate designs, such as the "Pomme de Pin" necklace, which was made up of oversized gold-tone pinecones. The "Tahiti" collection, designed by Victoire de Castellane, incorporated mother of pearl, coral, and other colourful stones. Dior experimented with oversized beads and chains and incorporated new materials such as plexiglass and leather into their designs.

The 1990s saw a shift towards a more refined and elegant look, with collections inspired by the tropical beauty of the South Pacific and the glamour of Hollywood. Victoire de Castellane continued to be a driving force behind Dior's jewellery line, creating pieces such as the "Diorette" collection, which featured delicate flower designs in gold and colourful gemstones, and the "Gourmette" collection, which combined classic chain-link designs with unique twists and unexpected elements.

John Galliano and his Impact on Dior

In 1996, John Galliano was appointed as the creative director of Christian Dior, taking over from Gianfranco Ferre. Galliano was known for his extravagant and theatrical designs, and he brought this flair to Dior, transforming the fashion house with his unique vision.

Galliano's first collection for Dior, shown in 1997, was a celebration of the brand's iconic silhouette, the "New Look," with voluminous skirts and nipped-in waists. However, Galliano added his own touch with his use of bold prints and colours, as well as dramatic accessories such as oversized hats and gloves.

One of Galliano's most iconic collections for Dior was the 2004 "Masai" collection, which was inspired by the African tribal culture. The collection featured vibrant prints, rich textures, and intricate beadwork, bringing a new level of cultural diversity to the brand. The collection also introduced the iconic "Saddle" bag, which quickly became a must-have accessory for fashionistas.

Galliano's designs for Dior often blurred the lines between fashion and art, with elaborate sets and theatrical presentations. His Spring/Summer 2000 collection featured models dressed in circus-inspired outfits, complete with clown makeup and towering wigs. The Fall/Winter 2004 collection saw models walking through a forest, dressed in ethereal gowns and carrying lanterns.

Galliano's innovative designs extended to Dior's jewellery line, where he introduced a new level of opulence and drama. His first collection for Dior Jewellery, shown in 1999, featured bold and chunky pieces inspired by ancient civilizations, such as the "Egyptian" collection, which featured statement necklaces and bracelets adorned with colourful stones and hieroglyphic motifs.

One of Galliano's most memorable jewellery designs for Dior was the "Mystery Coral" necklace, created for the Spring/Summer 2004 collection. The necklace featured strands of coral beads intertwined with a golden serpent, creating a striking and mythical statement piece.

Galliano's designs for Dior were not without controversy, with some critics accusing him of cultural appropriation and insensitivity. However, there is no denying his impact on the brand and the fashion industry as a whole. His innovative designs pushed boundaries and challenged conventions, cementing Dior's reputation as a leader in haute couture.

Raf Simons and the Modernization of Dior

In 2012, Raf Simons was appointed as the creative director of Christian Dior, taking over from Bill Gaytten, who had taken over from Galliano after his departure from the brand in 2011. Simons was known for his minimalist and modern approach to fashion, and his appointment marked a new era for Dior.

Simons' first collection for Dior, shown in 2012, was a departure from the opulence and drama of Galliano's designs, featuring streamlined silhouettes and a restrained colour palette. The collection was a nod to the brand's heritage, with references to the iconic "Bar" jacket and other classic Dior motifs.

Simons' impact on Dior's jewellery line was evident from his first collection, which featured sleek and modern designs that complemented the minimalist aesthetic of his clothing. His "Mise en Dior" earrings, inspired by the iconic necklace created by Mitchel Maer in the 1950s, became an instant hit, with fashionistas around the world clamouring to get their hands on a pair.

Simons' collections for Dior continued to push boundaries and challenge conventions, with innovative designs that incorporated new materials and techniques. His 2014 "Couture" collection featured intricate jewellery made from tiny crystal shards, creating an ethereal and otherworldly effect.

Simons' jewellery designs for Dior also drew inspiration from the brand's history and legacy, with pieces that paid homage to the iconic designs of Christian Dior himself. The "Carnet de Bal" collection, inspired by the dance cards of 18th-century balls, featured delicate pieces in gold and diamonds that harked back to the brand's origins.

Simons' tenure at Dior was relatively short-lived, with the designer leaving the brand in 2015 after just three and a half years. However, his impact on the brand was significant, marking a shift towards a more modern and streamlined aesthetic that resonated with a new generation of fashion lovers.

The Legacy of Dior Jewellery

Throughout its history, Dior's jewellery line has remained a symbol of timeless elegance and innovation. From its earliest designs, featuring delicate floral motifs and exquisite craftsmanship, to its modern collections, featuring sleek and minimalist designs, Dior has always been at the forefront of haute couture jewellery.

Today, the Dior jewellery line continues to draw inspiration from the brand's rich history and legacy, while embracing new materials and techniques to create innovative and unique pieces. The brand's current creative director, Maria Grazia Chiuri, has continued this tradition, with collections that celebrate femininity, nature, and the beauty of the world around us.

Dior jewellery has also become a favourite of celebrities and fashion icons around the world, with pieces worn by the likes of Natalie Portman, Charlize Theron, and Jennifer Lawrence. The brand's jewellery has been featured in countless fashion magazines and on red carpets around the world, cementing its status as a symbol of timeless elegance and luxury.

In recent years, Dior has also embraced the power of social media, with the brand's jewellery line featuring heavily on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. This has helped to introduce the brand to a new generation of fashion lovers, who are drawn to its unique designs and rich history.

In conclusion, the legacy of Dior jewellery is one of timeless elegance and innovation. From its earliest designs, inspired by the beauty of nature and the world around us, to its modern collections, featuring sleek and minimalist designs, Dior has always been at the forefront of haute couture jewellery. With its rich history, innovative designs, and enduring appeal, Dior jewellery is sure to remain a favourite of fashion lovers around the world for years to come

Some of our favourite Jagged Metal Dior jewellery 

1960s

1960s Dior jewellery embodies the sophisticated spirit of the decade. Focusing on intricate craftsmanship, this era's pieces often feature delicate floral patterns, sparkling rhinestones, and faux pearls. 

An exquisite pair of Dior earrings, these half hoop earrings feature intricate designs and green cabochons. They are crafted from gold plated metal and set with sparkling rhinestones that add to their sparkle and shine.

One of my favourite pieces - the 'Million' bracelet - completely different to pieces made at the time - a super cool and rare piece that feels right for today! 

1970s  

1970s Dior jewelry reflects a blend of elegance and bohemian style. In the 1970s, Dior made fab extra long simple chains which are long enough to be doubled up.

Love this extra thick gold plated snake chain - a classic 70s piece. A whopping 30 inches long!

1980s

1980s Dior jewellery encapsulates the decade's exuberant and glamorous spirit, characterized by bold, eye-catching designs. Oversized earrings, statement necklaces, and ornate brooches featured heavily, often incorporating colorful crystals, faux pearls, and enamel detailing. The 1980s Dior jewellery collection remains a symbol of the era's lavish and dramatic aesthetic.

Classic early 1980s Dior - chunky gold plated flat chain with a sparkling statement centrepiece!

Towards the mid to late 80s, Christian Dior produced bold yet simple chunky chains which feel really wearable today.

1990s

1990s Dior jewellery reflects the decade's eclectic and minimalist tendencies, showcasing a mix of understated elegance and bold statement pieces. Dainty gold chains, delicate pearls, and simple pendant necklaces were popular, while oversized earrings and chunky bracelets added drama. The iconic Dior logo often adorned the designs.

An iconic Dior brooch - this was a fab gift given away with perfume!

Cute little flower studs - as the 90s drew in earrings got more subtle and understated, with more being made for pierced ears.

Stunning statement Dior earrings from the Galliano era, featuring mistletoe leaves and berries. 

Incredible statement 90s Dior ring featuring three butterflies.

Y2K

Y2K Dior jewellery embodies a unique mix of early 2000s flair and high fashion. The pieces often feature chunky chain links, glittering rhinestones, and prominent logo designs. Futuristic elements, such as metallic finishes and geometric shapes, further accentuate the collection's Y2K vibe

This versatile Dior necklace features a classic John Galliano design that perfectly reflects early 2000s style. 

Another classic, versatile Y2K Dior necklace, featuring the popular star icon of the time.