NEWSROOM

“Journey with Minerals” exhibition at L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts in Shanghai

November 25, 2025

Pyrite, Quartz. Collection of the Mineraology Museum of Mines Paris - PSL. © L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts - Photo: Benjamin Chelly . Van Cleef & Arpels.

After its debut in Hong Kong in 2024, the “Journey with Minerals” opens a new chapter in Shanghai, meeting the audience in this great metropolis. L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, presents this exhibition from November 25th, 2025, to March 29th, 2026. Bringing together 70 rare mineral specimens, high jewelry creations and objects, the exhibition creates an immersive world of minerals through the dual lens of natural science and jewelryarts.The exhibits include unique loans from the Mineralogy Museum of Mines Paris – PSL collection, masterpieces from Van Cleef & Arpels Collection, as well as jewelry treasures from institutions and private collectors around the world.

Pallasite "Esquel", Meteorite. Collection of the Mineralogy Museum of Mines Paris – PSL .© L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts - Photo: Benjamin Chelly. Van Cleef & Arpels.

 

Pallasite "Esquel", Meteorite

Collection of the Mineralogy Museum of Mines Paris

© L’ÉCOLE Van Cleef & Arpels, photo: Benjamin Chelly

Pallasite "Esquel", Meteorite. Collection of the Mineralogy Museum of Mines Paris – PSL .© L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts - Photo: Benjamin Chelly. Van Cleef & Arpels.

 

Pallasite "Esquel", Meteorite

Collection of the Mineralogy Museum of Mines Paris

© L’ÉCOLE Van Cleef & Arpels, photo: Benjamin Chelly

The exhibition explores the fascinating world of minerals through five thematic journeys, from their color and shape to their atomic organization and cosmic substance. Visitors will discover the beautiful specimens through matter, jewelry technology, arts and space. 

Minerals are natural inorganic crystalline solids, each possessing a unique chemical composition and structure. that determine its distinct properties. Some of these minerals, valued for their aesthetics, durability or rarity, are transformed into gemstones for jewelry, where human ingenuity enhances nature's gifts alongside precious metals. Beyond their beauty, minerals have been essential to the development of civilizations and industrial inventions, playing an indispensable role in social progress and economic growth. Their varied shapes, colors, and textures, have also inspired artists in various fields such as architecture, painting, sculpture, and design to create amazing works. Finally, minerals constitute the fundamental building blocks of rocks, not only on Earth but also on other planets and asteroids. Some meteorites provide evidence of the early stages of our solar system. The exhibition showcases minerals from cosmic origin,  such as the “Esquel” pallasite meteorite.

 

In addition to original exhibits shown in Hong Kong, the Shanghai edition unveils 16 new rare mineral specimens and 16 High Jewelry pieces and objects. It also highlights works of strong Chinese cultural identity. Since ancient times, artisans have drawn inspiration from natural stones, infusing wisdom and aspiration into their craft to create enduring marvels. Steeped in the heritage of Chinese civilization, each one reflects the unique aesthetic philosophy of the East. 

Kris from Bali, religious ceremonial dagger, 19th century. Gold, diamond, pink sapphire, steel, crystal, meteoric iron. V MUSE Collection.

Kris from Bali, religious ceremonial dagger, 19th century

Gold, diamond, pink sapphire, steel, crystal, meteoric iron

V MUSE Collection

As part of the programme of the 2025 Sino-French Environmental Month, this exhibition showcases the artistic beauty of minerals through pieces, but also with talks and activities, raising public awareness of environmental protection.

 

L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts partners with esteemed institutions and invites the public to explore the mesmerizing mysteries of minerals together. Looking ahead, it also plans to offer multi-sensory tours for visually impaired visitors, ensuring the beauty of jewelry arts can be appreciated by all.

  • “Journey with Minerals” exhibition at L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts in Shanghai

     

    Date: From November 25th, 2025, to March 29th, 2026 

    Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30am to 6:30pm 

    Location: L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts in Shanghai,

    Twin Villas, No.796, Middle Huaihai Road, Shanghai

     

    Registrations on WeChat Mini-Program