Patrice Leguéreau, Director of Chanel’s Jewelry Creation Studio, Dies at 53
PARIS — Patrice Leguéreau, Chanel’s director of the jewelry creation studio, has died at 53.
His death was confirmed Wednesday by Chanel in a statement.
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“Driven by an extraordinary passion and energy, Patrice Leguéreau never ceased to pay homage to Gabrielle Chanel’s visionary imprint,” the French fashion company said, enumerating the breadth of house themes he explored, ranging from the camellia and lion to pearls and more.
“Under his direction, the jewelry creation studio has grown and developed, welcoming a wealth of talent that he has constantly encouraged and nurtured. Those who were lucky enough to work alongside him will remember him as a deeply sensitive, humble and accessible man, driven by a strong sense of community,” Chanel continued. “Patrice’s contribution to Chanel is immense and he will always be remembered.”
A graduate of Paris’ Ecole Boulle design school with a specialization in the rare craft of modeled engraving, Leguéreau also trained at the Institut National de Gemmologie. After spending six years at Cartier and an 11-year tenure at Van Cleef & Arpels, Leguéreau joined Chanel in 2009 as its director of the fine jewelry creation studio.
Among his most memorable works are the collections marking the 80th and 90th anniversaries of the “Bijoux de Diamants” high jewelry line, the only one designed by Gabrielle Chanel.
For the 100th anniversary of the Chanel No.5 perfume, he imagined a 55.55-carat diamond necklace that is now part of the house’s patrimony and a further 123-piece collection.
Most recently, he imagined “Haute Joaillerie Sport,” a collection inspired by the French brand’s sporty heritage and style. It came with rope pulls and sweatshirt collars, as well as club badges and the use of carbon fiber.
Leguéreau is survived by his three children.
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