Some people’s stories are sprinkled with stars. Fred Samuel’s story was adorned with diamonds, pearls, and multicolored stones – and so was his destiny. Since 1936, Maison FRED has been a name synonymous with contemporary jewellery, timeless elegance, and an unwavering spirit of modernity.

From his early years in Argentina to the founding of the iconic Maison FRED in Paris, Fred Samuel’s life was a journey of unbreakable passion, endless creativity, as well as an unshakable vision of jewellery that celebrated light, color, and joy through iconic statement-pieces of jewelry.

Fred Samuel: The genius behind FRED

Born in 1908 in Buenos Aires into a family of gemstone traders, Fred Samuel grew up surrounded by beauty and brilliance. Cultured pearls became his first great passion, and his expertise in these luminous treasures soon made him a leading authority in the field.

He particularly adored pearls of a creamy-pink hue, which would eventually be known as ‘FRED-colored’. But Samuel’s creativity went beyond expertise; it was nourished by vivid memories of the sunlight of Argentina and his love of the sea. These inspirations became his muse, shaping the Maison’s creations with warmth, brilliance, and a natural vitality.

The beginnings of Maison FRED

In 1936, Fred Samuel opened his first boutique in Paris, presenting himself boldly as a ‘contemporary creative jeweller’. His philosophy was radical: jewellery was not just for grand occasions, but also a part of everyday life, especially for women. By the early 1950s, a royal commission from the King and Queen of Nepal tasked him with creating jewellery to harmonize with the dazzling colors of court saris.

Samuel mirrored their shimmering hues with sapphires and diamonds in a kaleidoscope of shades. The pioneering use of color became a hallmark of the Maison, bringing vibrancy and individuality to high jewellery. With rounded, curvaceous forms and a joyful use of color, he crafted designs that embodied modernity and a liberated spirit.

Iconic creations through the times

Between 1996 and 2012, designer Yan Sicard helmed the creation studio, contributing bold interpretations and high jewellery pieces. Over the decades, Maison FRED has produced creations that combine elegance with playfulness, sophistication with warmth.

Among its most celebrated designs is FRED’s Pretty Woman Sunlight Message necklaces, which embodies the Maison’s joyful and sunlit DNA. Another standout example of its creativity is the FRED jewelry created in homage to Roland-Garros, where the dynamism of sport meets the elegance of Parisian high jewellery.

Maison FRED today

Today, nearly a century after its founding, Maison FRED continues to honor its founder’s vision. Sunlight, color, and the sea remain central inspirations, reflected in collections that blend timeless elegance with contemporary personalization.

From bracelets to high jewellery, each piece embodies a harmony of radiance, emotion, and individuality. Maison FRED has not only preserved the spirit of Fred Samuel but has also carried it forward into the 21st century with an artistry that speaks to both heritage and innovation. It is a story of joy, light, and creativity; a story that began in 1936 and still shines brightly today.

An impressive selection of jewellery from Maison FRED is available at the Excelsior Fine Watches & Jewellery Boutique in Santorini. Contact or visit our boutique today.