“Terres de Contrastes” is a vivid study of the country’s landscapes and wildlife.
Southern Africa, and more specifically Botswana, where Messika sources its diamonds, has always held a special place in Valérie Messika’s heart. That’s evident in the brand’s 2025 high jewelry collection, which paid homage to the region with an eye-catching mix of vivid gemstones. It’s no surprise then that for 2026, Messika didn’t stray too far, returning to the area to inform its latest collection. Called “Terres de Contrastes”, the pieces pay homage to three distinct territories with an emphasis on the landscapes of the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari desert, and the Makgadikgadi Salt pans.
The Okavango, a river that runs thousands of kilometers across Southern Africa, emits a deep, rich blue, and lends its name to the “Le Okavango Blue” necklace. Not only does the piece celebrate an iconic partnership between Messika and the Government of Botswana, but it also honors the Orapa Mine. Discovered a few years ago, it houses the largest and rarest blue diamonds ever found in Botswana, including the stone that’s at the center of this necklace. Clocking in at 20 carats, the gem is joined by 400 diamonds, creating a design that is meant to represent water, light, and earth.
Next is Delta Sacré or “sacred delta” and refers to the lush flora that the Okavango River flows through. This necklace is all about pear and oval cuts, with almost 600 diamonds that span its length. At the center, a 12 carat emerald hangs delicately, mirroring the deep green trees that lie near along the water.
Féroce nods to the creatures that lie dangerously within the depths of Okavango River, namely crocodiles. To capture that predatory energy you’ll find a gold necklace that mimics sharp teeth with a 16.98-carat black opal. Staying on the topic of danger, next up is Règne, which draws inspiration from another predator: the cheetah. A wild silhouette with spots and footprints mae with onyx and diamonds, a yellowish-brown center evokes the sun-drenched earth as golden rays bask the surface.
Lastly is the Python Rubellite, with five marquise-cut diamonds made to mirror a serpent. A 13.54-carat ruby lies at the center, mimicking the red sunset that cuts across the sky, as the diamonds surrounding reflect the skin of a snake coiling around the collarbone.
“Terres de Contastes” will be on display in October 2026 at the Messika Haute Joaillerie Fashion Show during Paris Fashion Week.
