Karine
Hourtoule-Arpels
Jewellery has always been part of my story.
As the great-granddaughter of the founding couple of the prestigious jewellery house Van Cleef & Arpels, I was fortunate enough to grow up surrounded by jewellery. This family heritage shaped my eye and nurtured my appreciation for distinctive, one-of-a-kind pieces.
I spent many years living in New York and Brazil. These experiences shaped my aesthetic sensibility, my love of colour and my desire to discover new talents.
In 2005, I opened my first boutique, Baby Buddha, in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris. A pioneering destination dedicated to emerging independent fine jewellery designers. For 17 years, I introduced new talents to my clients, including Dezso by Sara Beltran, Pascale Monvoisin, Brooke Gregson, Aurélie Bidermann, Celine d'Aout, Jacquie Aiche, Maria Tash, Jade Jagger, and many others.
I travelled the world in search of hidden gems, meeting the people who created them and bringing my favourite discoveries back to Paris to share. The boutique attracted an international clientele, including figures from the worlds of fashion, film and music, all united by the pleasure of discovering unexpected jewellery creations.
I later opened a second boutique, also in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where I shared my discoveries in antique and vintage jewellery. I continued to seek out exceptional pieces with the same curiosity, always drawn to a unique creation, a rare detail or a piece of jewellery that captured my heart.
Today, I favour private appointments and pop-up events. Follow me on Instagram to stay informed about upcoming events.
A new adventure is also taking shape: I am working on creating my own jewellery line, Esther Lion. A more personal expression of my story and inspirations.
Stay tuned!
Baby Buddha in the press
