Three Must-See Historic Jewel Exhibitions to Visit in the First Quarter

The year begins under the best auspices at i-diamants! Our entire team wishes you a very happy and prosperous 2026, a year we hope will be filled with discovery, passion and elegance.

We would like to warmly thank our clients for their loyalty and trust, which inspire us every day to share with you the very best of the world of precious stones and high jewellery.

To start the year in style, we invite you to discover a selection of three remarkable exhibitions across Europe not to be missed in the coming months — fascinating journeys that tell the story of royal and aristocratic jewellery through the centuries.

 

“Dynastic Jewels” – Hôtel de la Marine, Paris

📅 From December 10, 2025 to April 6, 2026
📍 Hôtel de la Marine, Place de la Concorde, Paris

 

 

The exhibition “Dynastic Jewels” illuminates the state rooms of the Hôtel de la Marine until April 6, 2026, offering a dazzling journey through three centuries of European jewellery. This exceptional exhibition, organised in collaboration with the Al Thani Collection and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, brings together more than 140 outstanding pieces, some of which are being shown in France for the very first time.

Through diamonds, emeralds, rubies, pearls and sumptuous adornments, the exhibition highlights jewels worn by iconic historical figures such as Catherine II of Russia, Joséphine de Beauharnais, Marie-Louise of Austria and Queen Victoria. These pieces tell not only the story of power and prestige within European dynasties, but also the intimate histories of the women and men who wore them.

An unmissable event for lovers of history, art and fine jewellery, set in the heart of the French capital.

 

 

 

“The Albion Art Collection” – Victoria & Albert Museum, London

📅 First quarter of 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed)
📍 Victoria & Albert Museum, London, United Kingdom

 

 

In London, the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) will present an exhibition during the first quarter of the year dedicated to the jewels of the Albion Art Collection, one of the most prestigious private jewellery collections in the world.

Assembled by collector Kazumi Arikawa, these treasures reflect the social, cultural and symbolic importance of jewellery throughout history. Among the remarkable pieces are Russian imperial jewels — including a magnificent diamond necklace dating from the reign of Catherine the Great — as well as a diamond and aquamarine tiara that once belonged to Alexandra Feodorovna, the last Empress of Russia.

The exhibition also features emblematic pieces from the British high aristocracy, such as the Diamond Wild Rose Tiara from the 19th century and the Monson Diamond Tiara, a perfect example of the highly prized garland style of the era.

This international selection of historic jewels offers a rare opportunity to admire legendary pieces while exploring the history of taste and power through jewellery.

 

 

 

“A. E. Köchert: Jeweller to Emperor and Crown” – Royal Palace of Gödöllő, Hungary

📅 From December 6, 2025 to April 6, 2026
📍 Royal Palace of Gödöllő, near Budapest

 

 

Just outside Budapest, the majestic Royal Palace of Gödöllő will host the exhibition “A. E. Köchert: Jeweller to Emperor and Crown” until April 6, 2026, dedicated to the history of the renowned Viennese jewellery house A. E. Köchert.

Founded in 1814, the house quickly became the official jeweller to the Habsburg court. The exhibition presents nearly 100 exceptional pieces — jewellery, diadems, parures and accessories — accompanied by original documents, drawings and archival materials that illustrate the privileged relationship between Köchert and the imperial family.

Among the highlights are the famous diamond star jewels created for Empress Elisabeth of Austria (“Sisi”), as well as brooches, necklaces and personal pieces from the imperial court, some of which are being displayed to the public for the first time in decades.

The historic setting of the palace, once one of Empress Sisi’s favourite residences, adds a unique dimension to this exhibition rich in stories and brilliance.

 

 

 

Conclusion

Whether in Paris, London or Budapest, these three exhibitions offer a fascinating insight into the history of royal and aristocratic jewellery — pieces that not only shaped entire eras, but continue to captivate through their beauty and symbolism.

Take advantage of the first quarter of 2026 to (re)discover these cultural treasures and deepen your passion for the world of diamonds and high jewellery.