But what’s interesting here? Well, we’re off to meet the Maison Trabbia Vuillermoz, the last stonemason in the Pays de Gex.
Once upon a time…
It all began in 1946. The grandparents Trabbia Vuillermoz started their lapidary business. At first, they worked out of their small flat at the bottom of the village. It was in 1997, 50 years later, that the family acquired the site we know today. At that time, the building was a hotel, which they then renovated.
This love and expertise has been passed down from generation to generation, first with their daughter and now with their grandson.
As you’ll have gathered, stone and jewellery here are a family affair, handed down from generation to generation and shared by all!
But why the stones?
Stonework originated in the Haut-Jura in the 17th century. At that time, many jewellers and lapidaries went into exile in the region, especially in Switzerland, after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. The majority of lapidaries were Protestants. What’s more, they wanted to take advantage of the needs of the booming Swiss watchmaking industry.
It‘s worth noting that this know-how arrived in the Jura even though there was no stone in the region!
Today, this tradition has all but disappeared, with only a few houses such as Trabbia Vuillermoz still surviving.
Treat yourself at Trabbia Vuillermoz jewellers!
With its expertise and know-how, Trabbia Vuillermoz offers you a wide choice, from costume jewellery to high-quality jewellery. Whether you prefer silver or gold, gemstones or precious stones, coloured or not, necklaces, rings or bracelets, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for! At Trabbia Vuillermoz, quality and attractive prices go hand in hand. In fact, thanks to direct sales, the company is able to offer you lower prices than its competitors! And yes, that’s why you’ll fall in love more quickly, whether you’re buying for yourself or as a gift!
Don’t hesitate, and head for jewellery heaven!
If you can’t make it to Mijoux, don’t panic! Order online from their website. More than 5,000 items of jewellery are on sale. Something to fall in love with at any time. I warn you, it’s with full knowledge of the facts!
Good to know:
Are you a lithotherapy enthusiast? Our jewellers have a wide range of rolled stones: rose quartz, amethyst, etc., so you can expand your knowledge of the subject or simply add to your collection!
A shared passion
Trabbia Vuillermoz isn’t just about jewellery: there’s a museum on the first floor of the shop. This space, with its collection of incredible stones, will show you all the passion and love of this family, who have travelled the world to bring back the real treasures that you will have the chance to contemplate. Whether you’re curious or passionate, you’ll be impressed!
During your visit, you’ll also have the chance to learn a little more about the stone-cutting trade through a variety of period tools. And did you know that stone-cutting was generally done in pairs? A work table on display at the museum will show you. There’s a whole host of interesting anecdotes in store for you! All you have to do is discover them!
Good deal: for groups of 15 or more, you can take a guided tour, but please note that booking is essential!
I forgot to mention it, but what’s more it’s free! You’re in for a real treat. Young and old alike will be amazed by the richness and diversity of the stones! One thing’s for sure, you’ll leave with your eyes full of stars!
I hope I’ve inspired you to visit this jeweller’s shop, which is without doubt unlike any other, with its strong history and ancestral know-how. More than a shop, Trabbia Vuillermoz offers you a journey through time, a sharing of knowledge.
When you visit it, it promises to take you back to the past and project you into the present. And that’s something you can’t refuse. Enjoy your trip!
Thematics
