Schlumberger was born in then-German Mulhouse, France, to a well-to-do family involved in textile manufacturing. In 1956, the president of Tiffany & Co., Walter Hoving, asked Schlumberger to begin designing for the firm. He had his own workshop at the company until his retirement in the late 1970s and was eventually made a Vice-President.

Schlumberger’s designs at Tiffany & Co. were known for their whimsical interpretations of natural forms. He was especially inspired by sea creatures and other animals. Schlumberger remains one of only four jewelers that Tiffany & Co. has allowed to sign their work.