In the illustrious world of jewellery and watches, few names come bigger than that of Cartier. Founded in Paris in the mid-nineteenth-century by Louis-François Cartier, they have sold to royalty and are one of the oldest jewellery houses in the world today.
Now, you can dive deep into the world of Cartier, as a landmark exhibition delving into their creation and path to becoming the force it is now has just landed at the V&A. With over 350 shining items on display, visitors can get up close and personal with the gleaming goods from now until November 16.
Marking the first major exhibition entirely dedicated to Cartier in the whole of the UK for almost 30 years, it will deep-sive into how the jewellery powerhouse was founded and its status in the world today. Cartier at the V&A is set to take visitors on a ride that captures the journey from creation to the legacy of art, design and craft that is associated with Cartier.
Of course, since this is Cartier we’re talking about, you’ll also get a smattering of royal history with its sales to kings and queens over the last 177 years. You’ll also discover how their appeal then stretched out to the wider world, with appearances in cinema, music, and fashion.
There are a whole lot of items along the 350+ pieces that should get jewellery lovers excited. Highlights of the exhibition include the Williamson Diamond brooch commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and the Scroll Tiara commissioned in 1902 and worn to the coronation of Elizabeth II, and by Rihanna on the cover of W magazine in 2016. Worn by pop royalty and actual royalty. It doesn’t get much better than that, surely?
There’s also be a rose clip brooch worn by Princess Margaret on display, alongside Grace Kelly’s engagement ring and many other ‘precious jewels and showstopping objects, historic gemstones, iconic watches and clocks from the V&A and Cartier Collection’. Plus, the King has also lent works to be included from the Royal Collection to add yet another regal touch to an already regal-kissed collection.
The first UK exhibition on Cartier in nearly 30 years will run at the V&A until November 16, 2025. Get your hands on a ticket here.