Essential Jewelry Pieces That Everyone Should Have

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      Although Jean Dousset is a descendant of Louis Cartier, he wasn't inherently destined for a career in jewelry. "By the time I was born, Cartier had already been sold out of the family," Dousset explained. "I didn't grow up in Cartier’s stores or fully immersed in its storied history." However, when he got the chance to interview at a prestigious French jewelry house, he felt it was meant to be. "One day, I unexpectedly received an opportunity to interview at Chaumet Place Vendôme, the heart of jewelry," he recounted.

      In the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Dousset discusses how he began his career in jewelry, his decision to transition to lab-grown diamonds, and more.

      For excerpts from the conversation, please scroll below.

      You're a descendant of Louis Cartier, so your background in high jewelry is significant. While you’ve never actually worked for Cartier, could you provide listeners with a brief overview of how you ended up in the fine jewelry industry and how you progressed until launching your own brand?

      By the time I was born, Cartier had already left the family. I wasn't raised around the Cartier stores or deeply involved in its legendary narrative. I was somewhat in the background, focused more on storytelling, and I was not destined from the start to enter the jewelry business. No one in my family has been involved in jewelry in any capacity.

      Then, one day, I received an opportunity to interview for the renowned French jewelry house, Chaumet Place Vendôme, which is the center of the jewelry world. When I entered the space, I was immediately captivated by its grandeur, historical significance, the displays, and the gemstones. That marked the beginning of my career.

      You made a significant shift a few years ago to work exclusively with lab-grown diamonds. Can you briefly explain why you decided to make that transition?

      I consider myself a traditionalist. I've been in this industry for approximately 30 years, and until I became aware of lab-grown diamonds, only natural diamonds were available. I worked with natural diamonds for many years, but I always believed the prices were exceedingly high. This forced people to compromise on what should be a truly enjoyable purchase experience. There was a lot of tension around it.

      We were discussing trade-offs instead of focusing on what people genuinely wanted. Instead of presenting clients with what they truly desired, we were consistently suggesting alternatives. The first time I encountered lab-grown diamonds, I saw it as a tech product developed by tech innovators, while the traditional diamond industry had yet to engage.

      Fast forward a couple of years, and I began to see lab-grown diamonds that were cut as beautifully as the finest diamonds I had been searching for all my life. They were also certified by the leading authority in diamond grading, the GIA. Now, the value proposition has shifted dramatically, making lab-grown diamonds irresistible in my eyes.

      For listeners who might not be looking for an engagement ring but are interested in acquiring a piece of fine jewelry—perhaps their first significant jewelry purchase or an addition to their collection—what would you suggest as timeless choices? Are there specific types of bracelets, earrings, or necklaces you recommend?

      I refer to these as women's jewelry essentials. What pieces should you invest in if possible? I suggest a tennis bracelet, as it looks good whether dressed up or down. A pair of stud earrings would likely be the first purchase you should consider, and lab-grown options also provide the chance to have a suitably sized, high-quality pair that beautifully frames your face. A classic pendant is also a safe choice; it’s versatile and can be worn every day, allowing you to gradually build your collection. I would recommend these jewelry essentials.

      This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.