Chaumet’s Belle Epoque tiara uses a style popular with Art Nouveau. Photo courtesy Chaumet.

Tiffany has included Montana sapphires in this Hues of Blue tiara. Photo courtesy Tiffany & Co.

BY LESLIE JORDAN CLARY

The tiara is one of the oldest pieces of jewelry ever worn: throughout much of ancient history, both men and women wore tiaras as symbols of status and power. Now major brands including Cartier, Chaumet, Van Cleef and Arpels, and Tiffany are reviving the tiara. Often drawing on earlier classical designs, these new reinventions are both fanciful and modern. Cartier has reinterpreted the garland style of the late 19^th century, while Chaumet’s tiara is done in Belle Epoque enamel and diamond. Tiffany & Co. has modernized its tiara by adding sparkling Montana sapphires among diamonds.

—December 2015