Maison Falize, the Name for Enamel Jewelry

Paris, in the second half of the 19th century, was an extraordinary center for jewelry design and production. One of the most renowned names was the Maison Falize; consisting of top-ranking craftsmen and jewelers. Having been established in Paris, in 1840, La Maison Falize has been owned by a dynasty of jewelers, starting from Alexis Falize, the founder. He was the supplier to the most renowned jewelers of his time owing to his exceptional skills as a designer.

The house has an interesting history; spanning over three generations: Alexis, followed by his son, Lucien, and then, finally, three talented grandsons, better known as Falize Frères (André, Jean, and Pierre). Alexis was inspired by the art history of ancient times and the middle ages as well as mother nature. His creations of luxury jewelry are true manifestations of his superb craftsmanship and manufacturing techniques. By joining forces with Antoine Tard, an enamel maker, Alexis made use of enamel in his jewelry creations in the early 1860s which, eventually, led to its being a prominent feature of the house.

When Alexis retired, his son Lucien Falize took control of the business; a man inspired by the Japanese art seen at international exhibitions in London, in 1862, and then again in Paris, in 1867. Following the sudden death of Lucien in 1897, his sons proceeded with the family tradition into the 20th century; creating wondrous Art Nouveau pieces and securing two grand awards at the International Exhibition in Paris, in 1900.

Neo-Gothic and neo-antique jewelry

The Falize house was amongst the innovators of Art Nouveau, as is evident in the Museum of Decorative Arts, where not many such works can be found following the end of the 19th century.The jewelry pieces displayed during various exhibitions consist of goldsmith works, objects of art, and jewelry; comprising of a few pieces beautifully adorned with black enamel and unusual lines as well as pearls. There are also a variety of jewelry designs based on inspirations of ornaments from the Far Eastern countries.

Miller House offers Falize Jewelry

Recently, Falize creations have been rediscovered and are being auctioned at attractive prices. Some of its royal customers included Empress Eugenie, Queen Marie of Romania, and the Imperial Russian Family. The Maison Falize has never ceased to fascinate women who love to wear or simply collect jewelry, owing to the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship. Today, you get the chance to acquire or offer these magnificent treasures of Falize vintage jewelry.