Cartier
Established in Paris, 1847, by the Frenchman Louis-Francois Cartier. The Maison rose to fame through the dedicated work and creative genius of Louis-Francois’ grandsons; Louis, Pierre and Jacques. The three brothers established Cartier as jewellers to the world’s great, good and glamourous.
Global Fame
Cartier clients ranged from Russian Grand Duchesses, US heiresses and Indian Maharajahs to the Brazilian Aviator, Alberto Santos-Dumont and avant-guard French artist, poet and novelist, Jean Cocteau. Cartier’s network grew global during the interwar period thanks to the brother’s close communication and shared vision for ‘Cartier’ style in their Paris, New York and London shops.
Some of Cartier’s most iconic collections were produced by designers, Charles Jaqueau and Pierre Lemarchand. They worked closely with Louis Cartier to transform his rough sketches into wearable masterpieces of timeless chic.
In 1964 the firm was sold to the Swiss Richemont Group. The legacy of the three brother’s shared vision for the firms creations continue to enchant. Auction prices for Cartier pieces have simply gone from strength to strength.
Record Breaking Sales
On 13 November 2019, a Cartier bracelet sold at Sotheby’s Geneva for CHF +6 millions ($6.1million): breaking world auction records. The Art Deco bracelet was made in 1927 and is set with diamonds and sapphires in platinum. At it’s centre is an exceptional Burmese sapphire weighing 47.07 carats, flanked by two pear shaped white diamonds weighing 9.27 and 8.60 carats each. The cabochon sapphire is in the Mughal style, reflecting Cartier’s innovative embrace of Eastern jewellery styles.
The high quality stones and original design of the bracelet embody the genius of Cartier and the auction price reflects the firm’s long lasting status as the worlds greatest creators of jewellery.
The Trinity Collection
Two of the most distinctive Cartier creations of all time are ‘The Tank’ wristwatch and ‘The Trinity’ triple gold ring.
‘The Trinity ring was launched in 1924 by Louis Cartier inspired by a conversation with Jean Cocteau. The simple design of three interlinking bands of white, yellow and rose gold. As Cocteau famously said: “style is a simple way of saying complicated things”. The trinity ring illustrates his point perfectly.
Tutti Frutti
The ‘Tutti Frutti’ collection was inspired by Jacques Cartier’s trip to India. The Collection’s riotous composition includes carved emeralds, rubies and sapphires placed together in a chaotic clash of vibrant colours. They dazzled the public upon their launch in the mid 1920s, as they continue to do today.