The Excellence of Jura Know-How as a Legacy
Isabelle's family originates from the Jura, a mountainous region renowned for cutting colored gemstones since the 18th century.
Driven by the growth of the Swiss watchmaking industry, this activity experienced prodigious growth in the 19th century. Heirs to this tradition, Isabelle's ancestors founded their own lapidary workshop in the aftermath of the First World War. The story would continue far beyond the Jura mountains...
René, Isabelle's grandfather
At 23, René Grospiron, an accomplished lapidary, left his native Jura and moved to Paris to start a precious stone trading business.
He was successful: twenty years later, he was supplying the prestigious houses of Place Vendôme and was one of Europe's leading gem traders.
Officially recognized for his expertise, René served for many years as president of the lapidary section of the Meilleur Ouvrier de France competition.
Daniel, Isabelle's father
A trained engineer, Daniel Piat entered the world of jewelry through his marriage to René's daughter. He immediately developed a passion for precious stones, to the point of founding the French Gemmology Association in 1961.
His taste for adventure led him on numerous trips and prospecting missions to the four corners of the world.
Daniel succeeded his father-in-law as president of the lapidary section of the Meilleurs Ouvriers de France and for many years directed the Ethics department of the International Coloured Gemstone Association. He is still considered one of the greatest experts in colored gemstones today.
Isabelle, her brothers and cousins
Today, Isabelle and her brothers continue the family adventure and, each in their own way, keep the Jura lapidary tradition alive. The original workshop is still managed by Isabelle's cousins. The passion for precious stones remains a family affair...
