The Karolina collection
Above all, we are admirers of beauty in all its forms.
Whether it’s a beautiful places, a refined living space, or the finest of human creations – grand homes, noble architecture, fine paintings and furniture, or classic automobiles – we are drawn to that which elevates the spirit.
In different parts of the world, we’ve found ourselves struck by minerals: their vivid colors, unexpected crystal formations, and improbable combinations, sometimes revealing truly rare geological or mineralogical curisoties.
A similar emotion overcomes us as when standing before the graceful lines of a Cressent commode, the colors and detail of a Canaletto, or the quiet harmony of a classical estate set in an English park, among ponds and Lebanese cedars.
The incredible perfection and beauty of certain mineral specimens is a constant source of wonder and this has inspired us to delve deeper into the subject.
If you wish to purchase a new Ferrari, it’s quite straightforward, as long as you’re willing to be patient if there’s a waiting list. If your goal is to acquire a classic model – say a BB 512 or a Testarossa (without even going as far as a 275 or 250) – these were produced in fairly large quantities, well documented, allowing you to easily distinguish between the exceptional and the merely desirable. But with minerals? Not only is each specimen entirely unique, but the ability to recognize what separates a true masterpiece from a simply attractive piece – to identify its origin, to understand what confers real significance or rarity – is, in our view, far more difficult.
For years, we acquired elegant pieces, generally of good size, at major international shows and during our travels to producing countries. Over time, we realized that what we had accumulated no longer aligned with the standards we applied to the other objects in our living spaces. This realization came through contact with other collections and discussions with Hadrien, whom we met by chance on a trip unrelated to minerals.
Hadrien and Adeline have integrated technical and commercial expertise with a human touch through HBM, blending the codes of mineral collecting with those of other cultural domains. They have developed a bespoke, forward-thinking approach that we particularly value.
Hadrien has guided us through decisive steps in our understanding of what defines an exceptional specimen – helping us appreciate not only its inherent beauty but also its collectible value (some might say heritage value) over time, much like antique furniture. We are fortunate on both sides that the pieces he presents to us generally meet our criteria.
Thank you, Hadrien, for being our cicerone in the midst of the pitfalls that await any passionate non-professional. We appreciate your understanding of our eclectic interests and your acceptance that mineralogy is not our main focus, unlike many collectors.
It’s never easy to part with family objects that have been part of your life for… as long as you can remember.
I’ve gotten to know several figures in the mineral world and have worked with a few of them. But Hadrien stood out through his passion and his ability to take an international approach.
He honored every commitment with care and precision, providing clear communication, full handling of logistics, and complete management of administrative procedures.
Eric
I had been quietly following Hadrien’s work for several years before entrusting him with the sale of a few important pieces from my collection. Through HBM, his approach was precise, discreet, and remarkably effective. I particularly appreciated the accurancy of his advice and the care he brought to every detail.
The experience was seamless, perfectly handled from start to finish.
Special mention goes to Adeline’s photographic work: her photos provided me with a faithful and aesthetic souvenir of the specimens I sold.
A professional I recommend without hesitation.
PA
Adeline and Hadrien are aesthetes first and dealers second, and it shows in every piece they present. Their discretion attention to detail make them invaluable partners, a quality we haven’t found elsewhere.
Their approach has led us toward to uniquely beautiful specimens that enrich our spaces with both harmony and relevance.
Florence
I met Hadrien nearly fifteen years ago. He was young, but his determination and high standards when it came to minerals struck me immediately – we clicked right away. Not long after, we shared a two-week field expedition in the Grisons (Switzerland), a moment that sealed our friendship.
Over the years, I’ve seen him move into the professional mineral trade. And in that, I’ve found someone I deeply trust: attentive, committed, and always respectful of my preferences and limitations. Thanks to his in-depth knowledge of my collection, he is always able to suggest pieces that speak to me.
I value his precision, professionalism, and humility – but above all, his loyalty in friendship.
Fifteen years ago, I told him: “Minerals should never come before friendship”. This principle continues to guide our relationship today.
Grégoire
Thank you Hadrien for your friendship and trust. You know how to share your taste for the beautiful and the rare with great discretion… Thank you for the magnificent pieces you have given me to add to my collection, and for allowing me to glimpse (only glimpse…!) for my greatest pleasure.
I wish you all the best in your passionate quest.
Bernard
Hadrien? First and foremost, a true enthusiast and connoisseur of mineralogy. Always in search of the beautiful, the unusual, the excellence, yet humble.
Sharing your infectious passion and discovering the pieces you offer is a true pleasure.
Thanks to you, my collection has reached a milestone: your sound advice and the quality of the samples have allowed me to develop it far beyond what I had imagined. The enthusiasm and satisfaction of those to whom you offer your pieces is clearly one of your driving forces. Our exchanges are always pleasant interludes, convivial and rich in fascinating discussions. You’ve created a relationship that goes far beyond simple trust.
I can’t wait to discover the rest of HBM, magnified by Adeline’s photographic talent!
Best regards,
Alain
Following a casual conversation about a possible discreet, off-market sale of a specimen from my collection, Hadrien found just the right words to persuade me.
He handled the transfer , which I had thought nearly impossible, with both finesse and efficiency.
JPD