Albert Boghossian in his Geneva office, with pieces from his collection, including an Egyptian turquoise pendant, eggshell boxes by French artist Jean Dunand, and a 17th-century English gold and silver purse.
A version of this article originally appeared in the Precious Index, our watches and jewellery supplement (see W*230) Photography: Gabby Laurent
‘My family and its generations have forever been on the move. We come from a merchant industry – always buying, selling, adding, reducing. I grew up watching my grandfather and father collecting – in silver, jade and gold.’ – Albert Boghossian
Antique sewing set in gold and pearls, circa 1850. Photography: Jessica Ruch
’Not everything I collect is beautiful – but the workmanship is exceptional.’ – AB
Etui in amber, coral, enamel and diamonds, circa 1920, by Cartier
‘My desire to collect is linked to the history and nature of Armenian culture, of being on the move and becoming integrated with other cultures.’ – AB
Small gold box with mother of pearl, 1925, by Janesich
‘My collection is a voyage. Collecting is my own way of travelling. It takes me around the civilisation of where a piece originated from.’ – AB
Chinese box in silver, with mother of pearl, circa 1940
‘Our very long family history of artisanship makes us very sensitive to handwork of the artisan.’ – AB
Antique bow brooch in 14 ct-gold and silver with turquoise and split pearls, circa 1880
