With the Cannes Film Festival just days away, the final touches to the prestigious award are still being put to work by several artisans in the workshops of Chopard in Switzerland. Since the late 1990s, the jeweler has been handcrafting the award given to the best film in the official competition, which has become one of the most powerful symbols of world cinema.
The creation of this piece of goldsmithing requires dozens of hours of work and the expertise of specialists in molding, polishing, and crystal work. The award is made of 18-karat gold and rests on a base carved from rock crystal. Every detail is meticulously inspected before its transfer under high security to the Palais des Festivals.
An award that has become a luxury and prestige item
Over the years, the Palme d'Or has gradually evolved to also become a showcase of jewelry craftsmanship. Redesigned by Caroline Scheufele for Chopard, it now incorporates materials from certified responsible supply chains, notably "Fairmined" gold, used since 2014 as part of an ethical luxury initiative.
The award remains under strict confidentiality until the Festival's closing ceremony. Two copies are even made each year to prevent any incidents or a possible tie. Estimated to be worth tens of thousands of euros, the prize remains, above all, an emblem of artistic recognition for filmmakers worldwide.
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