rafting the Ballon d’Or by Mellerio: A Masterpiece of Goldsmithing
On October 30th, the Ballon d’Or ceremony celebrated the talented Argentine player Lionel Messi. This was the perfect occasion to appreciate the masterful craftsmanship of Maison Mellerio.
Since its creation in 1956, the Ballon d’Or was originally awarded to players of European origin. In 2007, the award expanded internationally, opening the door to global recognition of football talent.
Even after all these years, the Ballon d’Or, crafted by Mellerio, has never lost its elegance and sophistication. This article will give you a closer look at why.
The Ballon d’Or by Mellerio since 1956
Maison Mellerio is, above all, a true institution in French jewelry. Founded in 1613, it is the oldest jewelry house in the world. The talent of this family-owned business has long attracted the attention of prominent figures, including Marie-Antoinette. For nearly three centuries, Mellerio has drawn nobles and celebrities from around the world. Today, its fame also rests on its specialization in the world of sports.
Since 1956, Mellerio has been responsible for crafting the Ballon d’Or, one of the most prestigious awards in world football.
Beyond the Ballon d’Or, Mellerio has distinguished itself by creating other iconic sports trophies. Since 1981, the Maison has had the honor of crafting the famous Coupe des Mousquetaires for Roland Garros, the world-renowned tennis tournament. Mellerio has also made its mark in sailing, equestrian sports, and golf.
Let us now take a closer look at the process of creating the Ballon d’Or.
The Crafting Process of the Ballon d’Or by Maison Mellerio
It is in a family workshop that Mellerio has been crafting the Ballon d’Or for almost seven decades. The production process has remained largely unchanged. Each trophy requires nearly a hundred hours of meticulous work and begins six months before its delivery.
The Ballon d’Or is made of brass, set in a block of pyrite, and weighs 15 kilograms. This iconic trophy represents a true work of art, celebrating the pinnacle of exceptional craftsmanship.
Creating the Structure
The first crucial step in making the Ballon d’Or is constructing its brass structure. The material is poured into a mold to form two perfectly smooth half-spheres.
The goldsmith then works with precision to create an opening in the structure. This allows the ball to be mounted on the pyrite base.
Filling the Ball
The second step begins once the brass structure is complete. The trophy passes carefully into the hands of the skilled chiseler.
Through the opening created in the previous step, the artisan fills the ball with “cement.” This operation takes 15 hours, during which the chiseler shapes the metal along a precise pattern, revealing the ball’s iconic seams and adding authenticity to the piece.
Polishing the Trophy
After the meticulous chiseling, the Ballon d’Or is handed over to the polisher. Though this step may seem simpler, it is no less essential. Polishing ensures the ball’s radiant shine and distinguishes it among other trophies.
Engraving
Next comes the engraving stage, entrusted to a master engraver. The artisan carefully inscribes the official France Football logo along with the year of the edition—each detail executed by hand.
The Final Touch
The final step brings the trophy to life: the perfectly shaped ball is immersed in a bath of gold, giving it a radiant glow. The goldsmith then mounts the ball on its pyrite base, completing this exceptional masterpiece.
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