Jewelmer CEO Jacques Christophe Branellec on crafting the first Filipino-made Miss Universe crown: ‘It’s been an honour’

Built on the foundation of 18-carat gold adorned with 23 golden South Sea pearls and over 1400 diamonds, the crown boasts tendril-like formations reminiscent of seafoam meeting the shore and the wind blowing on the waves. Meanwhile, a large singular golden pearl boldly presents itself as it is complemented by rays evocative of the sun.

Also see: Interview: Pia Wurtzbach on discovering her favourites and style

Taking 377 steps over five years, the Lumière de l'Infini’s pearls were cultivated in Jewelmer’s Palawan farms—requiring delicate stewardship. “With nature controlling much of the process, there is no guarantee that a pearl will be harvested,” says Branellec.

Jewelmer’s innovative non-extractive pearl farming method ensures pearl oysters are bred in protected environments instead of being caught in the wild. Parent oysters are carefully selected to breed the perfect golden pearl-producing oyster where they are then sent out to sea for two to three years. Branellec calls this the ‘Pre-Operation’ stage when the oysters would be carefully watched and nurtured by pearl divers. Upon reaching maturity, a trained master grafter would then insert a bead nucleus and a piece of mantle from a donor oyster into the gonad of the parent oyster. From here, the mantle would develop into a pearl sac and in two to three years, a beautiful golden pearl is conceived.

“With the right timing, the grace of nature, and years of patient care, the master grafter extracts a lustrous pearl from the oyster and a living gem is born,” shares Branellec.

Branellec revealed that their collaboration with The Miss Universe Organisation had been years in the making and “with divine timing.” When the organisation reached out to Jewelmer to design the crown, they were ready to get to work and showcase the pride of the Philippines. “Designing this year’s crown has been an honour, and Jewelmer hopes that the brilliance of the golden South Sea pearl resonates throughout the universe,” he says.

NOW READ

All Eyes On: Bulgari High Jewellery, The Faubourg Express, and more style happenings

Adam Pereyra and Oslog craft a golden heritage with every detail

Jewellery collection of Doña Margarita Zóbel de Ayala featured in the 33rd León Exchange Online Auction