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Cartier Collectible Jewelry

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.

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Creator: Cartier
Cartier France 1960s Yellow Gold Diamond And Red Cabochon Stone Lion Brooch
By Cartier
Located in Norwood, NJ
Circa 1960s Cartier France 18K yellow gold whimsical and unusual Lion Brooch. Hand chased and detailed gold work and set with round cabochon carnelian stones and further set with dia...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Gold

Rare Mid-century Brushed 14K Gold Cufflinks by Cartier
By Cartier
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Exquisite and timeless Cartier cufflinks exude luxury with Mad Men-era styling straight out of Don Drape's Closet. Crafted in gleaming brushed gold, their classic mid-century design ...
Category

1960s Vintage Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Gold

Large Vintage Cartier Jewelry Red Ruby French Gold Silk Scarf Pillow White Cream
By Cartier
Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Katie Larmour Studio is the original vintage scarf pillow maker. Gaining notability for her unique idea and creations back in 2013 - featured in the likes of the Financial Times, and first selling here on 1stdibs in 2016 - our creations are of the absolute top most quality, craftsmanship and finesse. Thank-you for looking. Title: Large Vintage Cartier Jewelry Red Ruby French Silk Scarf with Linen Pillow Gold White Cream Large custom made one-of-a-kind luxury cushion (pillow) created from an exquisite rare vintage pure silk Cartier fashion scarf in a striking print. It illustrates exotic panthers adorned with fabulous jewels in bold diagonals against an off-white, cream ground. Two elegantly prowl along thick luxurious gold chains above and below a prominent third central panther in white gold / or platinum playfully balancing a previous precious red jewel sphere in a statuesque pose. Elaborately framed in an exotic cat print pattern of pave set diamonds and elegant onyx stone, just like a lavish item of jewelry. The scarf’s panther theme is a variation of the famous ‘haute joaillerie’ piece originally created for Dutchess of Windsor Wallace Simpson. Considered one of jeweler Jean Toussaint's greatest triumphs for the Parisian brand, an empire which originated in 1847 with Louis-François Cartier, and one of his most whimsical, timeless and symbolic creations recognised all around the world. Cartier is a luxury Parisian empire which originated in 1847 with Louis-François Cartier and is recognised all around the world for their high end creations. The lavishly bejewelled creatures appear to be a reference to the brand’s signature necklaces, bracelets and earrings. On a thick quality twill silk with beautiful texture, diagonal grain and subtle sheen. It has a beautiful soft sumptuous feel to the touch and is in perfect condition. Backed in new 100% pure Irish linen, the aristocrat of textiles and certified by the Irish Linen Guild, lined in a layer of natural bamboo cloth, filled with new custom-made plush duck feather insert and a concealed zip. The traditional oatmeal color linen is a combination of the unbleached raw colour of the natural flax plant on the weft intertwined with pristine white on the warp, resulting in a beautiful melange effect. This bold and popping oversized design is without a doubt the ultimate luxurious statement piece and bijou accessory for an interior. Elegant, majestic, regal and glamorous it conjures sophistication and seductive luxury with an essence of feminine style. ‘The panther is the proud leader of the pack of precious animals that make up the famous Cartier menagerie.’ Assouline Publication A contemporary cushion (pillow) constructed with antique elements by using fragments of precious fabric. Also see our other items listed here on 1stdibs which include a wide array and colourful rainbow of complimentary pieces. We also have this similar print in two other colourways, both listed here on 1stdibs, sapphire blue accents on a cream ground, and a spectacular green, which would be extremely complementary as a pair or set. Contemporary cushion (pillow) constructed with antique elements by using fragments of precious fabric. Handcrafted in Ireland By designer-maker Katie Larmour This cushion is a one-of-a-kind and part of a sustainability project. It has been created from a repurposed, up-cycled, recycled fabric, used with the intentions on promoting a more eco-friendly environment. We both celebrate and cherish the past and take care with rare and precious vintage and antique materials. (this cushion frame can also be reversed back into a scarf and presented in a frame on request) Note on condition: This particular scarf displays slight markings, these are tiny, faint and barely noticeable. They are small, almost like dirty marks but the piece is fully laundered, likely very small colour transfers, perhaps during ironing in its previous life. They are small and just about visible in the photographs. We rarely create scarf cushions from non perfect specimens but in this instance the item is extremely beautiful. This is mentioned for clarity. We feel they do not take away from the item’s charm and beauty. This can be expected in vintage, formerly used / pre-loved textiles, there is no structural damage (no rips, plucks, holes, tears, snags, frays), or restoration. It is a very special colour way that we don’t come across often. Tags: Red, blood, antique gold, white gold, silver, yellow, ochre, blue, grey (gray), soft black, ivory and off white, topaz, diamond, diamonds, jewels, gemstone, glitter, sparkle, gems, jewellery sapphire, onyx, necklace, watch, chain, bracelet, brooch, earrings, pendant, trinket, cats, leopard, African, exotic, bamboo, rattan, velvet, Mid Century Modern, European...
Category

Late 20th Century French Art Deco Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Textile, Linen, Silk

Cartier Art Deco, 18K Powder, Lipstick 4.365 Oz. Auction Prices exceeded $35000
By Cartier
Located in Soquel, CA
Cartier 18 Karat Yellow Gold Powder - Lipstick 4.365 oz., Art Deco, Rare - Paris Rare and Precious Object from Cartier Paris, 1920-1925, .750-18KT yellow gold, carved antique Jade, 30 Ceylon sapphires, enamel. Please note the recent auction records prices reflect sales of $28,000-$40,000 for one of these compacts. The Jadeite Jade plate comes from the apprêts. The term apprêts referred to a stock of fragments from disassembled jewelry and other objects, including ancient items...
Category

1920s French Art Deco Vintage Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Jade, Gold

Rare Vintage French Cartier Panther Bracelet Designer Silk Scarf Red Gold Linen
By Cartier
Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Katie Larmour Studio is the original vintage scarf pillow maker. Gaining notability for her unique idea and creations back in 2013 - featured in the likes of the Financial Times, and first selling here on 1stdibs in 2016 - our creations are of the absolute top most quality, craftsmanship and finesse. Thank-you for looking. Title: Rare Vintage French Cartier Panther Bracelet Designer Silk Scarf Red Gold Irish Linen Pillow Description: Large custom made luxury cushion created from an exquisite vintage pure silk Cartier...
Category

Late 20th Century French Art Deco Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Linen, Silk

Cartier Vintage Black Sunglasses with Box, 1990 Silver Logo
By Cartier
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Vintage Cartier classic black sunglasses with silver CC logo. Classic, timeless, sophisticated piece to add to your wardrobe Authentic, vintage, rare, Cartier Paris France Black Ja...
Category

Late 20th Century French Modern Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Resin

Vintage Cartier Silk Scarf backed in Linen Pillow Sapphire Blue Antique Gold
By Cartier
Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Katie Larmour Studio is the original vintage scarf pillow maker. Gaining notability for her unique idea and creations back in 2013 - featured in the likes of the Financial Times, and first selling here on 1stdibs in 2016 - our creations are of the absolute top most quality, craftsmanship and finesse. Thank-you for looking. Title: Vintage Cartier Silk Scarf...
Category

Late 20th Century French Baroque Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Linen, Silk

Large Vintage Cartier Jewelry Blue Sapphire French Gold Silk Scarf Pillow
By Cartier
Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Katie Larmour Studio is the original vintage scarf pillow maker. Gaining notability for her unique idea and creations back in 2013 - featured in the like...
Category

Late 20th Century French Art Deco Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Textile, Linen, Silk

Large Vintage Cartier Jewelry French Gold Peach Pink Silk Scarf Pillow Linen
By Cartier
Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Katie Larmour Studio is the original vintage scarf pillow maker. Gaining notability for her unique idea and creations back in 2013 - featured in the likes of the Financial Times, and first selling here on 1stdibs in 2016 - our creations are of the absolute top most quality, craftsmanship and finesse. Thank-you for looking. Title: Large vintage Cartier jewelry french gold peach pink silk scarf...
Category

Late 20th Century French Art Deco Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Textile, Linen, Silk

Pair of Rare Vintage French Cartier Panther Bracelet Silk Scarf Red Silver
By Cartier
Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Title: Rare vintage French cartier panther bracelet designer silk scarf red silver grey Irish linen pillow Description: Katie Larmour Studio is th...
Category

Late 20th Century French Art Deco Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Linen, Silk

Cartier L'album Jewelry Coffee Table Book, Paris, France, 2000s
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
The very beautiful Cartier L'album coffee table or library book, circa 2000s, Paris, France. A beautiful and rare photographic book covering the work of th...
Category

Early 2000s French Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Paper

Cartier Gold Buckle Belt with 5 Small Golden Jaguar Buttons
By Cartier
Located in Brea, CA
A gold buckle black Cartier belt with 5 small golden jaguar buttons, every buttons with Cartier marker, the gold jaguar buckle with Cartier 1930 marker t...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Cartier Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Leather

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Cartier collectible jewelry for sale on 1stDibs.

Cartier collectible jewelry are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of silk and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Cartier collectible jewelry, although beige editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original collectible jewelry by Cartier were created in the Art Deco style in europe during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider collectible jewelry by and René Lalique. Prices for Cartier collectible jewelry can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $475 and can go as high as $28,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $1,391.
Questions About Cartier Collectible Jewelry
  • 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 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
    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 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 ExpertMay 3, 2024
    The Cartier logo is a pair of interlocking Cs. However, many people associate the panther with the French luxury jewelry maker more than its actual logo. Louis Cartier incorporated the feline figure into its design lexicon. In 1914, Cartier hired illustrator George Barbier to design advertisements for the jewelry house. Barbier drafted a drawing that featured a glamorous woman with an elegant panther at her feet, and Cartier loved it. He had an additional connection to the panther in the form of his alleged romantic interest, fellow Cartier designer Jeanne Toussaint, who adored the animal so much that she decorated her apartment with furs and donned a coat of panther fur. Cartier gave her the long-lasting nickname Panthère. Since then, Cartier has offered watches, bracelets, necklaces, brooches and earrings inspired by the panther. Find a diverse assortment of Cartier jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 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 ExpertJanuary 10, 2025
    Cartier is special for at least a few reasons. The French luxury brand is one of the most well-known and internationally revered jewelers in the world.

    Cartier has helped create style trends over the course of its long history, including playing a prominent role in defining Art Deco jewelry. The brand designed one of the first modern wristwatches for men — the Santos de Cartier — and its Panthère motif and Love bracelet are universally renowned among lovers of fine jewelry.

    Additionally, it should come as no surprise that Cartier engagement rings are among the most desirable on the jewelry market for those hoping to be betrothed. The 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.

    Find Cartier jewelry for sale on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    No, Cartier is not the same as Rolex. Louis-François Cartier founded Cartier in Paris in 1847. Some of its most iconic watches include the Tank, the Santos, the Ballon Bleu, the Calibre de Cartier and the Drive de Cartier. Hans Wilsdorf established Rolex in London in 1905. Today, the maker is well-known for its sophisticated watches, including the Submariner, the Daytona, the DateJust, the Oyster Perpetual and the GMT-Master II. Find a selection of Cartier and Rolex watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
    Why it is called the Cartier Crash relates to the unique shape of the watch. The case and dial of the timepiece have a smashed, wavy appearance, similar to what a watch might look like if it were smashed or crushed in a crash or collision. There are various stories of how this imaginative design came into being. Some people claim that the designers Jean-Jacques Cartier and Rupert Emmerson got the idea for the timepiece after a customer brought in a damaged watch for repair. Another theory is that the prominent melting clock in Salvador Dalí's painting The Persistence of Memory served as the inspiration. Shop a variety of Cartier watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024
    How much a Cartier is worth varies. Many Cartier pieces do appreciate in value over time, but their potential selling prices depend on their age, style, type, availability and other factors. The condition also greatly impacts value, and there can be variability between very similar pieces. For example, one 1930 Tutti Frutti fetched $1.34 million at an auction in 2020, but a simpler one sold for $508,000 in 2023. Because it can be difficult to estimate the value of a piece on your own, experts recommend consulting a certified appraiser or experienced dealer. Shop a wide variety of Cartier jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024
    Many jewelry lovers believe that Cartier gold is worth it. 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 existing and aspirational clients. Its internationally renowned offerings include the Tutti Frutti collection, which features colorful carved gemstones inspired by founder Jacques Cartier’s trip to India; 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. Like all of its pieces, Cartier gold jewelry is finely crafted, and you can choose from 18-karat white gold, yellow gold or rose gold. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Cartier gold jewelry is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Cartier jewelry and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    There is no definitive answer to the question of which is cheaper, Rolex or Cartier. Some entry-level Cartier watches do tend to have lower starting price points than some Rolex watches. However, both makers offer a wide variety of watches, so it's not accurate to say that Cartier is always the cheaper option. On 1stDibs, explore a range of Cartier and Rolex watches.
  • 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 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
    What a Cartier bracelet symbolizes varies from piece to piece. With its screw motif, the Love bracelet represents the enduring nature of true love, while the three types of gold featured in the Trinity bracelet stand for love, fidelity and friendship. Translating to "just a nail" in English, the Juste un Clou bracelet is sometimes associated with simplicity and modernity. Find a large collection of Cartier bracelets on 1stDibs.
  • 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 ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
    Yes, Cartier diamonds are real. The French luxury jewelry maker follows stringent standards when selecting the diamonds that go into its pieces. For example, the central brilliant cut diamonds in Cartier rings that are over 0.3 carats in weight must be classified as Very Good or Excellent to be used by the brand, and Cartier rarely chooses diamonds with clarity ratings below VS2 or color ratings below H. Shop a selection of Cartier diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 1, 2024
    Yes, some Cartier watches are automatic but the legendary French luxury house also creates collections that include watches with quartz movements. Cartier’s iconic Tank collection, which includes the Tank Française, the Tank Louis Cartier and other models, features both quartz and automatic options for all kinds of collectors. Each of the watches in the Panthère collection, however, carries a quartz movement.

    While quartz watches are powered by a pre-installed battery and a high-frequency quartz crystal, automatic watches rely on a spring system and are self-winding. An automatic watch does not have a battery and is recharged on the wrist owing to the wearer’s movements during the day.

    It was Louis Cartier, grandson of Cartier founder Louis-François Cartier, who was responsible for bringing watchmaking to the venerable maison when he presented Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont with a wristwatch in 1904. 

    Although the pocket watch was the de rigueur men’s accessory of the day, Santos-Dumont found his own pocket watch hard to consult while keeping his plane aloft. Louis fashioned a timepiece with a flat, square case on a leather strap that could be referred to easily at a glance. Named in honor of Louis’s friend, the Santos was eventually produced for sale in 1911. 

    Find vintage Cartier watches for sale on 1stDibs.
  • 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.

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