How I Analyze a Jewelry Maison Before Designing for Them

diamond spike with pink diamond
diamond spike with pink diamond
diamond spike with pink diamond

1. Understanding the Brand’s Identity

I start by analyzing:

  • history

  • values

  • design heritage

  • signature artistic direction


This helps define what makes the Maison recognizable whether it’s Cartier’s structured elegance, Van Cleef & Arpels’ softness, or Bulgari’s bold volumes.


2. Identifying the Brand Codes

Each house has specific visual codes:

  • shapes

  • proportions

  • textures

  • materials

  • stone preferences


Example:

Cartier → geometry

Harry Winston → diamond clusters

Bulgari → Serpenti forms

I list every code to make sure my designs stay credible.


3. Studying the Client Profile

A design is only successful if it speaks to the Maison’s clients.

I analyze:

  • lifestyle

  • expectations

  • aesthetic preferences

  • purchasing behaviour


A collector from Harry Winston doesn’t expect what a Tiffany client looks for.


4. Reviewing Previous Collections

I review the latest high jewelry collections to understand:

  • artistic direction

  • color strategy

  • major themes

  • technical choices


This helps me align with the brand’s current trajectory.


5. Defining Creative Boundaries

Every Maison has “rules”:

  • Van Cleef → roundness

  • Cartier → structure

  • Bulgari → volume


These constraints guide the design.


6. Converting the DNA into Design Language

I translate all elements into:

  • line vocabulary

  • proportions

  • mood

  • material approach


This ensures the sketch naturally integrates into the Maison’s universe.


Result

This method guarantees that every piece I design fits the Maison’s identity while bringing a new and relevant perspective.