GL ALTESSE

As the last major French jewellery manufacturer, GL Altesse perfectly masters all the manufacturing processes, from the traditional artisanal jewellery tradition to the efficiency of the most modern and innovative manufacturing techniques. Its exceptional know-how is recognised by the label Entreprise du patrimoine vivant.

History. It all began in the heart of the Marais district, in the Paris of 1905, when Marius Legros decided to create the ML company and set up its offices at 62 rue Charlot. In 1912, he opened his jewellery factory in Saint-Martin-de-Valamas, in the Ardèche valley. A few years later, his brother Georges Legros created the company GL bijoux in the neighbouring commune of Le Cheylard. For more than 50 years, the two companies of the Legros brothers developed into the French leaders in gold-plated, silver and 375-thousandths gold jewellery. In 1969, Marius created the Altesse brand and it was in 1998 that the two family competitors finally merged to create the GL group

Today, the House of Highness is the leading supplier of jewellery and precious stones. It supplies the world's leading luxury houses and manufactures and markets, under worldwide licenses, the Kenzo, Nina Ricci and Inès de la Fressange brands.

After a receivership in 2013, the brand is once again enjoying success and growth. In 2014, Éric Lefranc, the founder of the Renaissance group, bought Altesse (formerly GL Bijoux). And for the past 5 years, he has continued to develop the company.

The secret of this success? The Georgettes line launched in 2015. Rings, necklaces and especially cuffs, half jewel, half leather, that are all the rage. The traditional craft company has thus gradually begun to industrialize, seeing its production multiplied by more than 25, in less than 3 years. 600,000 euros have been allocated to these innovations. An additional 400,000 euros will be allocated to new investments of the same order in 2018. Today, the Georgettes line represents 55% of the company's turnover, compared to 15% two years ago.

The products. A wide range of gold, silver and gold-plated jewellery.

Employment. 240 workers who produce from 40,000 to 50,000 pieces each week. 60% of the production is shipped abroad. Turnover rose from €35 million in 2015 to €45 million in 2017, representing more than 28% growth.