It’s fair to say that most women are passionate about jewellery. And behind every sparkly gem, is a moving story. So it was with much excitement that I decided the other day to venture into Hartfield Jewellers on Parnell Road, to discover the latest Chaumet pieces that had just landed in store.

The renowned house of Chaumet was founded in Paris, in 1780, and as such, has a storied history. The brand has endured through eras that saw the likes of the French Revolution, the first Republic of France, the first Empire of France, and the restoration of the Bourbon dynasty. Many of its designs have been inspired by the regalia worn by royal dynasties of the past, and its settings and stones are of a quality that render its modern-day pieces fit for such lofty associations.

The story of Chaumet is intricately tied to that of the love between Napoleon and Empress Joséphine and its three collections, Joséphine, Liens and Jardins each carry associations of love, deep emotion and timeless beauty. Owner of Hartfield, Margaret Foley, told me that many young customers visit the store for the first time when they are about to get married, and the pieces resonate so emotionally with them then, that they often become customers for life.

From the breathtaking workmanship of the Joséphine rings to the symbolic links that represent deep connection in the Liens collection, to the dainty, honeycomb-shaped Bee My Love pieces, every sparkling diamond that makes up Chaumet’s impressive repertoire seems to have a story, and every piece its own poignant meaning.