Tiffany & Co. Collaborates with Netflix on del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’
Tiffany & Co. has forged a partnership with Netflix for Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated film, *Frankenstein*, set to premiere in theaters on October 17, 2023, before streaming on the platform starting November 7, 2023. This collaboration brings Tiffany’s exquisite jewelry into the cinematic world, enhancing the film’s rich visual storytelling.
Christopher Young, Tiffany & Co.’s vice president and creative director of Tiffany patrimony and global creative visual merchandising, recounted a memorable moment on set involving the historic Wade Necklace. Crafted in 1900 for Ellen Garretson Wade, this diamond and platinum piece, featuring over 40 carats of old mine-cut diamonds, had never adorned anyone else’s neck until it was worn by actress Mia Goth, who plays Elizabeth in the film. Young noted that the necklace fit perfectly, and its brilliance was amplified under the candlelight that del Toro chose for the scene, prompting the director to reframe his shot.
The collaboration between Tiffany & Co. and the film began at the request of costume designer Kate Hawley, known for her work with del Toro on films such as *Crimson Peak* and *Pacific Rim*. Initially, Young hesitated as the typical imagery associated with *Frankenstein* conjures dark, gothic themes. However, upon reviewing Hawley’s designs, he recognized the potential for integrating Tiffany’s archival jewelry into the lavish production.
Tiffany & Co. has a storied history with Hollywood, famously highlighted when Audrey Hepburn graced the screen in *Breakfast at Tiffany’s*. More recently, the brand collaborated on *The Great Gatsby* in 2013. In *Frankenstein*, the jewelry pieces not only enhance the visual narrative but also serve as rare artifacts, seldom seen outside of private collections. Young remarked on the significance of the pieces being showcased, especially the double-row scarab necklace designed in 1914 by artisans Meta Overbeck and Julia Munson in Louis Comfort Tiffany’s workshop.
“This is the first time this scarab design has been used in a film,” Young pointed out, emphasizing the connection across generations of talented women, from Mary Shelley to Mia Goth.
The production also features a pocket watch worn by actor Charles Dance, who portrays Leopold, the father of Victor Frankenstein, played by Oscar Isaac. While this piece is a recreation of a 19th-century design, it includes an engraved Frankenstein crest, adding authenticity to its portrayal.
Both Young and del Toro expressed amusement at the heightened security measures surrounding the Tiffany jewelry on set. Del Toro humorously noted that the jewelry had its own trailer, while Young confirmed that the security for the jewelry exceeded that of many stars in the film.
The collaboration extends beyond the film set. Tiffany & Co. has set up immersive window displays at its flagship location on Fifth Avenue, featuring miniatures from the film’s production design. These displays, which include digital elements and lighting effects synchronized with the film score by Alexandre Desplat, offer a unique experience that highlights the artistry involved in both the jewelry and the film.
The window displays are available for viewing until November 3, 2023, with a second exhibition scheduled at Selfridges in London from October 17 to November 9, 2023. Young advises that the best time to experience the window showcase is after 19:00, when the combination of elements creates a captivating tribute to both the film and Tiffany’s heritage.
This collaboration between Tiffany & Co. and Guillermo del Toro’s *Frankenstein* represents a significant intersection of fashion, film, and history, showcasing the enduring legacy of both the jewelry house and the iconic story that has captivated audiences for centuries.
