Paris Olympic Medals design – All photos by Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Design– “We wanted the Paris Olympic Medals to be truly unique and to bear the Paris 2024 signature.” Said the Olympic and Paralympic Games President Tony Estanguet. Indeed, each one is adorned with a highly symbolic and priceless piece of metal: the original iron from the Tour Eiffel.
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Photo by Cyril Masson.
Built between 1887 and 1889, the Dame de Fer—French for Iron Lady—underwent renovation during the 20th century. Certain metallic elements were permanently removed and have been carefully preserved ever since. For the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, the Societé d’Exploitation de La Tour Eiffel is giving these veritable pieces of the history of Paris and France a second lease of life and glory.
In keeping with its desire to strengthen the links between sport, culture, and heritage, Paris 2024 has called on the expertise of LVMH jeweller Chaumet. Renowned worldwide for its expertise, elegance, and embodiment of French craftsmanship, Chaumet is bringing the medals to the world of high jewellery with a design based on three inspirations: the hexagon, radiance, and setting.
Photo by Cyril Masson.
The hexagonal iron part of the Eiffel Tower recalls the geometric shape of France itself. On the same side, embossed fine lines project outwards to symbolise the country’s radiance in the world and the athletes’ shining performances.
The hexagon is linked to the medal by a “claw setting”, traditionally used by the House of Chaumet for its high jewelry creations. Six metal appendages are stamped on the surface and placed at the six corners of the hexagon to enclose the piece of iron against the medal.
Because the Olympic and Paralympic Games have their own history, two unique stories are written on the other side of the medals. The front of the Olympic medal features Athena Nike, the Greek Goddess of victory. The Paralympic medals feature a graphic representation of the Eiffel Tower from an upward perspective.
Photo by Cyril Masson.
All photos: Courtesy of Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
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Photo by Thomas Deschamps.
