The most versatile piece of jewelry that Joseph Chaumet made for the young Irina in 1914 was probably this platinum diadem in Louis XV style .
In its base it was laid out as a large ruby diadem, which consisted of a base with surrounding diamonds and rubies, which carries an openwork ribbon. The chosen main motif alternates with so-called overlapping coins - or "ecus comptes" , which contain a freely swinging gemstone in their center - in this case it is the magnificent rubies that Chaumet took from an older diadem.
In its large version it was intended to serve Irina on official occasions at court, for which court costume with the obligatory Kokoshnik was required - this diadem ideally takes up the traditional Kokoshnik in its form.
However, since the decisive Parisian fashion has said goodbye to the high tiara since 1913 and now the narrower bandeaus worn on the forehead dictate the fashion, the narrow base can be cleverly removed and worn separately as a headband.
The filigree attachment also served as an even more effective forehead bandeau when worn individually. This was not limited to rubies - the stones could be exchanged for nine large sapphire or emerald cabochons, nine pearls or nine large pillow-shaped diamonds, the largest of which weighed 10 carats.
The Chaumet company has created a small marvel of versatility in platinum that has been used for a wide variety of occasions.
In die Jusupov Ruby Collection are alos a heartshaped brooch with ruby and diamonds, a ruby and diamond pin, a ruby and diamond ring, a ruby and diamond bracelet another ruby and diamond link bracelet. A pair of large ruby and diamond earrings and a horseshoe brooch with large diamonds and two large rubies, see above.
The Jusupov ruby and diamond tiara, was with other jewels hidden in the treasure at the Jusupov Palace and found in 1925 from the Bolshewik and destroyed.
