Monaco is set to host the world’s first international high jewellery grand prix, with the inaugural Grand Prix de la Haute Joaillerie (GPHJ) scheduled for 25th October 2025 at the iconic Salles des Étoiles in the Sporting Monte-Carlo.

The groundbreaking event, launched by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, aims to fill a notable gap in the luxury calendar by creating the first competition dedicated exclusively to celebrating the art of haute joaillerie.

“Interestingly, up until today there is no similar event in terms of jewellery in the world,” said Stéphane Valeri, President-Delegate of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer and co-founder of the competition. “The creation of the Grand Prix de la Haute Joaillerie therefore has the intention to fill this gap and give haute joaillerie the celebration it deserves.”

The competition’s goal is to bring together the world’s greatest luxury actors under one roof. Meanwhile, the group itself has been committed to supporting arts and culture, investing millions of euros annually in cultural initiatives and major humanitarian causes including the Red Cross and Princess Grace Foundation.

An unprecedented event

Jean-Philippe Braud, co-founder and director of the event, highlighted the inclusive vision behind it and the departure from traditional industry trade shows: “Contemporary, open, audacious — capable of bringing together all the voices that make this art vibrate, including great houses, artisans, exceptional workshops, and new talents.”

He added: “What makes this event truly unprecedented is that, for the first time, we’ve opened the doors of haute joaillerie to collectors, enthusiasts, clients, and amateurs. We wanted to bring to life this encounter between creators and those who live through their works — and sometimes even their world — always with passion. There is no art without an audience, and by bringing together this community of aesthetes from around the world, we offer haute joaillerie a living stage — inspired, shared, and vibrant.”

The competition will feature eight categories, with pieces valued from €100,000 upwards. Organisers have confirmed that approximately fifteen jewellery houses have already committed to participating, representing both major luxury groups and independent creators who are not affiliated with larger groups. The event will also feature representatives and ambassadors from diamond-producing countries including South Africa and Canada.

Crackdown of the award ceremony

Unlike traditional award ceremonies, the GPHJ will not announce winners in each category. Instead, the jury will honour one piece in each category for particular reasons, without revealing the selection criteria to attendees or other participating houses.

The judging panel will be led by Fabienne Reybaud, a respected jewellery expert and journalist whose knowledge of the industry spans decades. “This is not just another trophy,” Reybaud stated. “It’s recognition of an art, of a tradition, of transmission. It represents a strong signal we’re giving to this profession.”

She highlighted the historical significance of jewellery, noting: “Jewellery relates to both the intimate and the universal. It’s a field that brings together completely different parameters, and it’s precisely this diversity that we want to express through this grand prix.”

The evening will combine elements of fashion show, award ceremony, and cultural celebration. All participating pieces will be presented during a special showcase, with detailed information about craftsmanship hours and technical specifications provided to highlight the exceptional work involved.

The event is invitation-only, with guests including collectors, clients of participating jewellery houses, and Monégasque residents. Individual participation will be fee-based, though specific pricing details are yet to be confirmed.

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Main photo by Monaco Life