Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel (1883-1971) defined elegance throughout her long
career in fashion. Beginning as a milliner in 1910, she quickly moved
into the world of high couture, and first became reknowned for jewelry
design in 1932. Chanel jewelry featured large stones, classical
inspiration, and an emphasis on authenticity. She despised excess and
gaudy display, which she felt was exemplified by her arch-rival and
contemporary, Elsa Schiaparelli. Chanel jewelry continues to be known
for its timeless beauty and utterly wearable grace.
