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Cartier

French

For its extraordinary range of bracelets, watches, rings and other adornments, French luxury house Cartier is undeniably one of the most well known and internationally revered jewelers in the world among clients both existing and aspirational.

Perhaps 1847 was not the ideal time to open a new watchmaking and jewelry business, as the French Revolution was not kind to the aristocracy who could afford such luxuries. Nevertheless, it was the year Louis-François Cartier (1819–1904) — who was born into poverty — founded his eponymous empire, assuming control of the workshop of watchmaker Adolphe Picard, under whom he had previously been employed as an assistant. Of course, in the beginning, it was a relatively modest affair, but by the late 1850s, Cartier had its first royal client, Princess Mathilde Bonaparte, niece of Napoleon Bonaparte, who commissioned the jeweler to design brooches, earrings and other accessories.

Under the leadership of Louis-François’s son, Alfred, who took over in 1874, business boomed. Royalty around the world wore Cartier pieces, including Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, the Maharaja of Patiala and King Edward VII, who had 27 tiaras made by the jewelry house for his coronation in 1902 and issued Cartier a royal warrant in 1904. (Today, the British royal family still dons Cartier pieces; Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, regularly sports a Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch.)

Cartier’s golden years, however, began when Alfred introduced his three sons, Louis, Pierre and Jacques, to the business. The brothers expanded Cartier globally: Louis reigned in Paris, Pierre in New York and Jacques in London, ensuring their brand’s consistency at their branches across the world. The trio also brought in such talents as Charles Jacqueau and Jeanne Toussaint.

One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch — one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. (Previously, a large number of people were using only pocket watches.) Louis designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to be able to check the time more easily while flying.

Cartier’s other famous timepieces include the Tank watch, which was inspired by the linear form of military tanks during World War I, and the so-called mystery clocks. Invented by watchmaker and magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin and later crafted exclusively for Cartier in the house’s workshop by watchmaker Maurice Couët, the mystery clocks were so named because the integration of glass dials on which the clocks’ hands would seemingly float as well as structures that are hidden away within the base give the illusion that they operate without machinery.

On the jewelry side of the business, Cartier’s internationally renowned offerings include the Tutti Frutti collection, which featured colorful carved gemstones inspired by Jacques’s trip to India and grew in popularity during the Art Deco years; the panthère motif, which has been incorporated into everything from brooches to rings; and the Love bracelet, a minimal, modernist locking bangle inspired by medieval chastity belts that transformed fine jewelry.

While the Cartier family sold the business following the death of Pierre in 1964, the brand continues to innovate today, renewing old hits and creating new masterpieces.

Find contemporary and vintage Cartier watches, engagement rings, necklaces and other accessories on 1stDibs.

Average Sold Price
$6,193
Styles
Related Creators
Iconic Designs from Cartier
Explore timeless pieces that have earned their place in history.
Cartier Love Bracelet
Cartier Love Bracelet
Cartier Love Ring
Cartier Love Ring
Cartier Santos Automatic Watch
Cartier Santos Automatic Watch
Cartier Trinity Ring
Cartier Trinity Ring
Cartier Vintage Triple Tone 18 Karat Gold Ring Marked Cartier 750 Serial 294628
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Elevate your jewelry collection with this exquisite Cartier Vintage Triple Tone Gold Ring. Crafted from luxurious 18 karat yellow, white, and black gold, this timeless piece showcase...
Category

Late 20th Century French Contemporary Cartier

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

Cartier Panthere De Cartier 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Case & Band Ref. 1070
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
ITEM SPECIFICATIONS: Designer: Cartier Model Name: Panthere De Cartier Reference Number: 1070 Movement: Quartz Metal: Yellow Gold Metal Purity: 18k Bracelet: 18k Yellow Gold w...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cartier

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

Cartier Panthere Watch in 18k Yellow Gold with Custom Pave Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
BRAND: Cartier MODEL: Panthere METAL: 18k Yellow Gold MOVEMENT: Quartz CASE SIZE: 22mm WRIST: 7.25 inches
Category

2010s French Modern Cartier

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

Cartier Ballon Bleu WGBB0046 Ref 2998 18K Yellow Gold Box Paper 2019
By Cartier
Located in San Diego, CA
Style Number: WGBB0046 / Ref 2998 Year: 2019 Model: Ballon Bleu Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold Band: 18K Yellow Gold Bezel: 18K Yellow Gold Dial: Silver Face: Sapphire Crysta...
Category

2010s Cartier

Materials

Yellow Gold

Cartier 1895 Solitare Diamonds Platinum Earrings
By Cartier
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
Indulge in timeless elegance with Cartier's 1895 earrings. Crafted with exquisite precision, each earring boasts a brilliant round-cut diamond cradled in...
Category

2010s Italian Aesthetic Movement Cartier

Cartier 1895 Solitare Diamonds Platinum Earrings
Cartier 1895 Solitare Diamonds Platinum Earrings
Free Shipping
H 0.27 in W 0.27 in
Vintage Cartier Diamond Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Daphne Ring 62
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Large Size Vintage Cartier Diamond And Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Signet Ring. Stunning yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 3.5mm centre diamond with F/G Col...
Category

1990s French Cartier

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Cartier Mariner Link Gold Chain Necklace
By Cartier
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A substantial 18k gold mariner link chain necklace by Cartier. The links are flat and textured. The chain is 34" long,. This significant length works together well with the thickness and texture, providing a great feel for the piece. This gold Cartier necklace can be worn solo or as a part of your neck mess. Either way, it's groovy and grabs attention without being flashy. Can be worn doulbed. About Cartier Brand Since 1847, Timeless Excellence has been Cartier’s second name. The high-quality standards of the Cartier jewelry were set in 1902 by King George VII. That year Cartier made 27 tiaras for the coronation and was officially announced as the crown’s jewels seller. Since then, Cartier was proclaimed as “king of jewelry...
Category

1970s Vintage Cartier

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Cartier Mariner Link Gold Chain Necklace
Cartier Mariner Link Gold Chain Necklace
Free Shipping
W 0.75 in L 32 in
Cartier LOVE Bracelet in 18k white gold 2ct diamonds with box
By Cartier
Located in Bilbao, ES
CARTIER LOVE BRACELET Cartier 'Love' bangle bracelet crafted in 18 karat white gold with diamond screw tops and pave set round brilliant cut diamonds (D-F in color, VVS clarity) Sign...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Cartier

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Browse all Jewelry from Cartier
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Creators Similar to Cartier

More Cartier Designs
Cartier Love Bracelet
Cartier Love Bracelet
Average Price
$13,875
Number Available
137
Cartier Love Bracelet
By Cartier
Styles
Modernist
If the robust locking mechanism and miniature screw heads that characterized the Cartier Love bracelet when it first appeared conjured crude, medieval hardware, there’s a good reason. When Italian-born American jewelry designer Aldo Cipullo created the company’s signature bangle, he was inspired by chastity belts. Cipullo believed that the bond and commitment embodied in love deserved their own distinctive symbol. When he designed the Love bracelet, in 1969, Cipullo (1935–84) hadn't been work...
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Cartier Love Ring
Cartier Love Ring
Average Price
$6,200
Number Available
111
Cartier Love Ring
By Cartier
Styles
Contemporary
Transgressive may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of Cartier's Love ring, but when the collection was designed in 1969, it was immediately understood as radical and provocative. With respect to traditions at the acclaimed French luxury jewelry house, Cartier had a policy that mandated anonymity of its designers, so the names of its in-house artisans weren’t known outside the firm. The brand’s much-publicized emergence of Italian jeweler Aldo Cipullo (1935–84), who crea...
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Cartier Santos Automatic Watch
Cartier Santos Automatic Watch
Average Price
$18,164
Number Available
50
Cartier Santos Automatic Watch
By Cartier
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Cartier Trinity Ring
Cartier Trinity Ring
Average Price
$7,390
Number Available
48
Cartier Trinity Ring
By Cartier
Styles
Modern, Contemporary
With its three intertwined bands, Cartier’s Trinity ring feels both modern and classic. Originally designed in 1924, the design was a minimalist outlier in an era dominated by the ornamentation of the Art Deco aesthetic. Designed by Louis Cartier (1875–1942), the grandson of the legendary French jewelry house’s founder, he chose three unadorned 18-karat gold bands for the Trinity ring, employing only their varied hues — white, pink and yellow — and the simple Cartier stamp for decoration. The...
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How to Spot a Fake Cartier Love Bracelet

This iconic jewel has captured countless hearts with its elegant design and its amatory symbolism. Counterfeiters have taken note of the demand and created fake versions. If you’re looking for a genuine Cartier Love bracelet, it’s crucial to check all the elements for authenticity. Our guide will teach you the telltale traits of a knockoff.

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Nothing Says Summer Heat Like This Ruby-Red Cartier Stunner

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Gems by David Webb, Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels Anchor The Back Vault’s Treasure Trove

Boasting one of the largest collections of David Webb in the world, the firm offers exceptional jewels — always in demand yet never in short supply.

This 1950s Cartier Toi et Moi Ring Is a Summer Stunner

Made with Sardinian coral, this gem packs so much presence — and is perfect for poolside soirees.

Discover Why Islamic Art Is an Enduring Influence on Cartier Jewelry

Through both his collection and his innovative designs, Louis Cartier’s passion for Islamic continues to resonate.

15 Scintillating Jewelry Watches to Elevate Your Holiday Style

Watchmakers have tucked their movements into all manner of precious baubles, from lapel pins to cocktail rings. The result is dazzling, wearable art that will get you to the party on time.

Cartier: The Jeweler Who Helped Define Art Deco

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Cartier jewelry & watches for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a range of Cartier jewelry & watches available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While looking for the most stylish antique or vintage Cartier jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Cartier diamond jewelry & watches, from our inventory of 1,850, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look. We have 4,559 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 21st century and contemporary. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider jewelry & watches by Mauboussin, Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co., and Chaumet. Prices for Cartier jewelry & watches can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $65 and tops out at $2,500,000, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $7,519.
Questions About Cartier
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The price of Cartier bracelets varies based on age, condition, and rarity. The least expensive versions of the Cartier Love bracelet, for example, can still cost around $4,000. On 1stDibs, there is a variety of Cartier bracelets for sale.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    As one of the top luxury jewelry houses in the world, Cartier uses some of the finest quality materials. The company uses 18k gold in their jewelry and real diamonds.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Cartier rose gold doesn't tarnish but over many years of wearing, rose gold generally is said to become darker. Rose gold allegedly becomes slightly yellower in tone, toward a traditional gold.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Today, the Cartier symbol, or logo, is the luxury house's name written in a clean serif font that mimics cursive handwriting. Typically, the logo is either black on white or white on a black background. Its refined and understated appearance references the high standards that have long been associated with this celebrated brand.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Cartier is famous for producing jewelry and watches out of rare and luxury-grade materials and creating innovative designs, often packed with symbolism. Some of the jeweler's most famous pieces include the modern Love and Trinity bracelets and its custom-made antique and vintage jewelry like the Crocodile and Patiala necklaces. Find a range of Cartier jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    There are a few reasons why Cartier is so popular. For one thing, the French luxury house is known for its very long history of unparalleled prestige and quality craftsmanship. Cartier has been producing extraordinary jewelry, watches and accessories since 1847. While jewelry lovers have long been enthusiastic about Cartier’s elegant and streamlined designs for bracelets, rings, necklaces and other pieces, the brand is also known for innovation. It pioneered the use of platinum in fine jewelry, and its artisans were so mindful of trends in fashion that the house became the official jewelry supplier to King Edward VII. Later, Cartier’s Art Deco-era pieces would help define the movement with which they are associated. One of the brand’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch, one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. Today’s influencers continue to help popularize the brand, increasing the demand for certain pieces like Cartier buffalo horn sunglasses and the Cartier Love bracelet, an icon of modernist jewelry. Find a wide range of Cartier watches, jewelry and eyewear on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Cartier watches are considered luxury watches. Cartier is a noted jeweler, taking that attention to detail and access to high-quality metals and jewels to their watches—they spare no expense and are highly desirable. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Cartier watches from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Cartier pieces may be cheaper in Paris than they are in the U.S., but that's because of the exchange rate. Cartier doesn't price the pieces depending on the country.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A Cartier engagement ring can cost between $3,000 and $800,000. The price depends on the diamond's carat weight and quality.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Most Cartier watches are quartz, but the iconic Tank watch is automatic. While quartz watches work due to a pre-installed battery, automatic watches use a spring system and are self-winding.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    One of the reasons Cartier is so expensive is because, since its inception in 1847, the brand has had a massive celebrity fan base that spans royals, movie stars, singers and socialites. The brand also uses the highest quality metals and gems in their pieces, rendering them expensive to produce. Lastly, most Cartier pieces are easy to identify, making brand recognition a key factor in the brand's exclusivity.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Cartier Vermeil means a timepiece made by the French luxury jewelry house of Cartier out of a material called vermeil. It is a precious metal produced by combining genuine gold and silver. Shop a variety of Cartier Vermeil watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The meaning of Cartier Vendôme varies. Most often, the term describes a line of watches made by the French luxury jewelry house. However, the company has also produced sunglasses and wedding jewelry with the style name Cartier Vendôme. Shop a variety of Cartier Vendôme watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
    There are at least a few things that make Cartier so special. Cartier is one of the most well-known and internationally revered jewelers in the world. The French luxury brand has helped to define style trends. Cartier made one of the first modern wristwatches for men� the Santos de Cartier� and its panth�re motif and Love bracelet are internationally renowned. Every piece produced by Cartier is also carefully crafted out of high-quality materials. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of Cartier pieces.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
    While the luxury jewelry maker has produced many iconic pieces, the Trinity de Cartier ring is perhaps its most famous. The Trinity debuted in 1924 and features interlocking rings in rose, yellow and white gold. Shop a collection of Cartier rings from top jewelers around the world on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    What Cartier watch is the most famous is largely a matter of personal opinion. Some well-known watches produced by the French luxury brand include the Tank Solo, the Ballon Bleu De Cartier, the Tank Anglaise, the Crash and the Clé De Cartier. Find a selection of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Unnamed designers working for Cartier designed the Cartier Ecrou bracelet. They based the design for the jewelry released in 2017 on that of the Juste un Clou that Aldo Cipullo created for the brand in 1971. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Cartier Ecrou bracelets.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    How to wear Cartier earrings depends on your personal preferences. Small hoops and studs can balance chunky statement necklaces, while dramatic drops and oversized hoops can become the bold focal point of an outfit. Shop a variety of Cartier earrings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    No, the Cartier Santos watch is not discontinued as of December 2021. The luxury watchmaker did discontinue the watch in 2016 but then revived the line in 2018 to celebrate the watch's 40th anniversary. You'll find a variety of Cartier Santos watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Pasha de Cartier is a watch introduced by the French luxury jewelry house of Cartier in 1985. Today, the watch features an automatic movement and is available with various leather and bracelet bands. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Pasha de Cartier watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
    While the Panthère de Cartier watch collection was initially launched in 1983, Cartier included panther spots (and only the spots) in diamonds and onyx on at least one women’s watch in 1914 and another in 1915. These creations were conceived by the Cartier designer Charles Jacqueau. The cat’s major breakthrough came in 1949, with a brooch on which Jeanne Toussaint worked hand in glove with designer Peter Lemarchand. The luxury jewelry house now offers dozens of versions of the Panthère de Cartier timepiece, including double- and triple-wrap bracelets, a series of cuffs and a diamond-encrusted panther spot version. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Cartier pieces from some of the world's top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Cartier does make earrings as well as a slew of other exquisite and high-end pieces of jewelry. Established in 1847 in Paris, France, this luxury goods brand is known throughout the world for its jewelry and watches. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Cartier pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
    No, not all Cartier rings are gold. Although the luxury jewelry maker produces many white, rose and yellow gold pieces, some rings are platinum. The French jewelry house, founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, pioneered the use of platinum in fine jewelry in the late 1800s, identifying the strong, lustrous metal as ideal for bringing out the true qualities of diamonds. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Cartier rings.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    The original Cartier Tank watch, which was emblematic of a stark departure from the renowned jewelry house’s curved and round watch faces in that its case resembled the FT-17’s cockpit, served as a sleek update to the Santos watch. Crafted in 1917, one year before the Great War came to a close, Cartier’s Tank watch reportedly borrowed its clean, sharp lines and boxy silhouette from France’s legendary Renault FT-17 light tank, itself a compact and extraordinary design that inspired numerous copies. When the Tank watch went to market, Cartier offered a limited run in Paris. After those quickly sold, it was given a name, the Tank Normale. The timepiece took off in popularity, but only slightly more than 30 were made in 1920 and annual production has been slow over the years since then. Find Cartier Tank watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    On Cartier jewelry, a 750 stamp means that a piece is 75% gold metal. You will find the stamp on the 18-karat gold pieces made by Cartier, such as the Love bracelet. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of Cartier jewelry from some of the worlds top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
    Sometimes, Cartier sunglasses are called buffs. This name comes from the fact that Cartier was the first major eyewear designer to use rare buffalo horn as a material for crafting eyeglass and sunglass frames. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Cartier sunglasses.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023
    To authenticate a Cartier lighter, locate the serial number. Then, contact Cartier’s customer service team to assess whether it is a genuine serial number and whether the product type and style match your piece. Check the official Cartier website for current contact information. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Cartier lighters.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
    Whether a Cartier watch is bigger than a Rolex watch depends on the particular timepiece. Cartier offers watches in sizes ranging from 28 millimeters for women to 44 millimeters for men. Rolex's smallest women's watch is bigger than Cartier's at 31 millimeters, but the watchmaker's largest men's watch is only 43 millimeters. Find a variety of Rolex and Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023
    The Cartier Tank is so popular for several reasons. Many people like its unique shape, which was inspired by the linear form of military tanks during World War I. Others appreciate its long history since it was released in 1918. Over the years, some models have featured details that further appeal to collectors. For example, the Tank Divan is notable for its striking rectangular case that is situated horizontally. The Roman numerals on its watch face are elongated, stretching to fit its unusual proportions. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Cartier Tank watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
    Cartier glasses are called by a variety of nicknames. These include 'Ye's, Sticks, Carties and Cardisa. Many people refer to Cartier sunglasses and eyeglasses fashioned out of buffalo horn as Buffs. Explore a wide variety of Cartier glasses from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.

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