In the 19th century, Cartier sought to render the diamonds in their rings as brilliantly as possible, initially sourcing platinum specifically from Russian mines and matching the durable metal with an equally robust precious stone. The French jewelry house, founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier (1819–1904), 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 in Cartier solitaire rings, panthère rings, engagement rings and other exquisite rings offered by the brand.
While platinum had been a part of jewelry making before, it hadn’t been used in the way that Cartier intended. The house's shimmering rings, such as the timeless Solitaire 1895 engagement ring, gave the impression of delicate lace when they debuted. Platinum was the metal of choice in Cartier engagement rings and other rings because it was strong enough to handle complex mountings and its hue made the diamonds look exceptionally white, which made the onyx, enamel and colored-gem elements pop.
The house’s offerings were wholly distinct, standing out from the era’s old-fashioned gold or silver pieces and emblematic of what would come to be called the “Cartier style.”
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.
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.
Cartier helped define Art Deco, and a few iconic palettes were expressed in gem-set rings and other jewelry and objects in the Art Deco era, most notably in geometric formations. Green/black/white and coral/black/white are as classic Art Deco as it gets, and Cartier had plenty of these two combinations on view at the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes. Cartier designers heightened the impact of these color stories by working in swaths of bright white diamonds that, through innovations in diamond cutting, could now be faceted into carré cuts, baguettes and other elegantly chiseled linear shapes.
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. Cartier Tutti Frutti rings — marked by a lush profusion of carved ruby and sapphire berries and blossoms amid emerald leaves offset by bright white diamonds — reflect an absolutely singular vision of how to pair colors and textures in a design as opulent as it is optimistic. Elsewhere, there was 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. The Cartier Love ring was originally dotted with miniature faux screwheads that mirrored those of the groundbreaking cuff before it.
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. For its extraordinary range of rings, watches and other adornments, Cartier is undeniably one of the most well known and internationally revered jewelers in the world among clients both existing and aspirational.
Find contemporary and vintage Cartier rings and other accessories on 1stDibs.
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Lapis Lazuli Ring
By Cartier
Located in Broomall, PA
Crafted with heirloom precision and a playful spirit, this vintage Cartier ring stands apart. It boasts a 18K yellow gold slim band that draws the eye to a sculptural centerpiece whe...
Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tsavorite Garnet Twin Panther Ring 18k Yellow Gold Black Enamel Signed Cartier
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
"Radiating iconic French elegance and exceptional craftsmanship, this vintage Cartier Panther ring showcases the unmistakable artistry of ...
Garnet, Tsavorite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Panthere 18K Yellow Gold 1.15ct Diamond Ring CA03-122225
By Cartier
Located in Southampton, PA
This Cartier Panthere ring is a sleek, sophisticated piece that will continually impress. The 18K Yellow Gold setting beautifully showcases the luxury brands emblematic panther motif...
Diamond
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Size 7.5 Panthere Vintage Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier vintage Panthère ring crafted in solid 18K yellow gold, designed as a sculptural panther poised gracefully across the finger. The feline form is rendered with smooth, flowing...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier C2 18K White Gold Ring with Diamonds - Includes Cartier Box.
By Cartier
Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Cartier C2 18K White Gold Ring with Diamonds - Includes Cartier Box. (Size 5.75) Pre-Owned Brand: Cartier. Gender: Ladies. Model: Cartier C2. Weight: 7.2 Grams. Includes: Cartier Bo...
Diamond, White Gold
Cartier 18k Rose Gold & Diamond LOVE Ring
By Cartier
Located in San Francisco, CA
Timeless and classic, this band is a must for any serious collector! The iconic 18k rose gold LOVE design features screw motifs accented by 66 sparkling round brilliant-cut diamonds...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Vintage Panthere De Cartier Ring, c.1980s
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
From the designer Cartier comes this stunning double panther ring. This is a discontinued design from the Panthere De Cartier collection. The piece is composed of two panther motifs ...
Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rare Vintage Cartier Large Red Ruby Ellipse Oval Cut 18k Gold Bypass Split Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Oval Cut Red Ruby 18k Yellow Gold Split Bypass Ring. Large ruby size. Stunning yellow gold ring set with 2 fine deep red oval cut rubies. Fine jewellery houses ...
Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Yellow Gold Love Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Yellow Gold Love Ring PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: 152211 Listing Title: Cartier Yellow Gold Love Ring Condition Description: Cartier's Love collection is the epitome of iconic, fr...
Yellow Gold
Cartier 18K White Gold Size 7.25 Diamond Panther Wrap Lakarda Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Panthère vintage ring crafted in 18K white gold, featuring the iconic Panthère head fully pavé-set with round brilliant diamonds. The panther’s nose is accented with onyx, wh...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier Vintage 18K Yellow Gold 2.41ct Diamond Ring
By Cartier
Located in Southampton, PA
This vintage Cartier bypass ring is incredibly chic. Set in 18K Yellow Gold, the stylish wrapped setting comes to life thanks to inset Diamonds totaling 2.41 carats. Sleek, sophistic...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Panthere 18K White Gold Ring
By Cartier
Located in Southampton, PA
A graphic, geometric design makes this Cartier Panthere ring simply unforgettable. A contemporary take on the brands iconic feline motif, it features a Platinum cage-like form that c...
Platinum
Cartier Abstract Seventies Ring
By Cartier
Located in Litchfield, CT
Circa 1970s, 18k, by Cartier, France. Set with two lush blue lapis discs and .08 carats of fine white diamonds (G color, VS clarity), this fabulous ring by the esteemed French jewelr...
Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold
Cartier Deep Blue Sapphire Large Size Oval Cut Ellipse 18k Gold Bypass Ring 49
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Deep Blue Large Size Oval Sapphire 18k Yellow Gold Bypass Ring. Stunning yellow gold ring set with 2 fine deep blue oval cut sapphires. Fine jewellery houses li...
Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier 0.74ct Diamond Signet Ring
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
From the designer Cartier, comes this impressive signet ring from their ‘Ellipse’ collection. Crafted in 18 carat yellow gold the chunky band tapers from 6.2mm to 4.5mm in width. At ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Yellow Gold Panthere de Cartier Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Yellow Gold Panthere de Cartier Ring PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: 148446 Listing Title: Cartier Yellow Gold Panthere de Cartier Ring Condition Description: The Panthère de Cartier ...
Yellow Gold
Estate Cartier Entrelaces Ring 18K White Gold
By Cartier
Located in Dallas, TX
Estate Cartier Entrelaces Ring in 18K White Gold. The rings is size 5, weighs 6.4 grams, and is 8.20mm wide. Comes with box and papers.
18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier 18k Yellow Gold Deux Tetes Croisees Diamond Bypass Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A refined vintage Cartier ring featuring the iconic Deux Têtes Croisées motif, designed with two elegant pear-shaped diamond terminals accented by brilliant-cut diamonds for added sp...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Les Berlingots De Cartier Malachite 0.33ct Semi-Paved Ring Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
Gemstones, studs, contrasting colors. unprecedented combinations for a collection that cultivates Cartier's aesthetic codes. Details: Brand: Cartier Model: Les Berlingots De Cartier...
Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Rose Gold Diamond Juste Un Clou Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Rose Gold Diamond Juste Un Clou Ring PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: 147144 Listing Title: Cartier Rose Gold Diamond Juste Un Clou Ring Condition Description: Translating to 'just a na...
Rose Gold
Cartier Le Baiser Du Dragon Falcon's Eye 18k White Gold Men's Ring Size 56 7.5
By Cartier
Located in Simpsonville, SC
Bold and enigmatic, the Cartier Le Baiser du Dragon Falcon’s Eye Ring reinterprets masculine elegance through the lens of Cartier’s iconic symbolism. Crafted in luminous 18k white go...
Tiger's Eye, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier 18k White Gold Tank Moonstone Ring
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
This elegant Cartier Tank Moonstone Ring is a striking example of the refined, architectural design language that defines the iconic Cartier Tank collection. Expertly crafted in luxu...
Moonstone, White Gold
Cartier Juste un Clou Double Semi-Pavé Diamond Ring Size M (53)
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Here we have a fabulous diamond ring from the world renowned luxury jewellery house of Cartier. This piece forms part of their 'Juste un Clou' collection and showcases a triple wrap ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Juste Un Clou Yellow Gold Nail Ring
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 2022 Cartier 18k yellow Gold Juste Un Clou "nail" Collection Ring, finger size 46, U S 4. Signed and Numbered, excellent nearly unworn condition and comes in the original prese...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Menotte Onyx 18k White Gold Men's Ring Size 9 60
By Cartier
Located in Simpsonville, SC
This Cartier Onyx Ring is a striking example of modern design and luxury craftsmanship. The centerpiece features a bold black onyx, expertly cut into...
Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier Massai Panther yellow Gold Ring
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 2010 Cartier Massai Panther 18K Yellow Gold Ring, accented with Emerald Eyes, finger size 10 1/2 Euro size 63, weighing 17.6 Grams. Comes in original Cartier presentation box.
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier 18 Karat White Gold Love Ring
By Cartier
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Designer: Cartier Material: 18K white gold Serial # VQRXXX Size: 62
Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier 8K Yellow Gold 1.75ct Diamond Ring CA11-122225
By Cartier
Located in Southampton, PA
Inset Diamonds with a total weight of 1.75 carats allow this Cartier ring to come alive every time it catches the light. Set in 18K Yellow Gold, this timeless accessory makes it easy...
Diamond
Carter Maillon Panthère Triple Row Half-Paved Diamond Ring Size P (56)
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Here we have a striking diamond ring from the world renowned luxury jewellery house of Cartier. Crafted from 18ct white gold, this contemporary piece features three rows of bright wh...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier Juste Un Clou Classic Model Nail Ring Yellow Gold Size 52
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
A nail becomes jewelry. Designed in 1970s New York, the first Juste un Clou bracelet reflected a wild, freewheeling era. Bold, modern, and innovative, Juste un Clou is a creative twi...
Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Caresse D'orchidées Orchid Flower Diamond Gold Cocktail Ring
By Cartier
Located in Geneva, CH
Cartier Ring Orchidée Diamond and White Gold 18K. Signed Cartier, numbered and marked. With original box. Dimensions Orchidée: approx. 2.30 centimeters x 2.30 centimeters. Ring Si...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold
Rare Vintage Cartier Sugarloaf Blue Sapphire & Diamond Mimi 18k Gold Bypass Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Sugarloaf Blue Sapphire And Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Bypass Mimi Ring. A very rare Cartier ring set with a pair of beautiful sugarloa...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow ...
Cartier 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Panthére De Cartier Ring Size 66
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Cartier 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Panthére De Cartier Ring This authentic Cartier Panthére De Cartier Ring is in excellent condition and is ready to ship! Design: Panthére De Cartier...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Diamond Trinity Gold 18K Ring
By Cartier
Located in Geneva, CH
Gold Trinity ring set with brilliant cut diamonds. Trinity by Cartier. A true "Classic" of this most renewed Jewelry Firm. The ring size is 49 / approximately 5 US. Original Cartie...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Cartier Panthère Ring in Platinum with Diamond, Emerald & Onyx – US 6 1/4
By Cartier
Located in Tokyo, JP
■Item No.: 24290719 ■Brand: Cartier ■Product Name: Panthère de Cartier Ring ■Material: Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, PT950 Platinum ■Weight: Approx. 26.9g ■Ring Size: Approx. EU：53/USA：6.2...
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, Platinum
Cartier Panthère De Cartier Emeralds Onyx 0.75ct Pave Diamond Ring White Gold
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
Cartier Panthère de Cartier ring, white gold 750/1000, set with 81 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 0.75 carats, emeralds, and onyx. Width of the ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier Juste Un Clou Ring, Diamonds (Rose Gold)
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Juste Un Clou Ring, Diamonds (Rose Gold) PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: 144428 Listing Title: Cartier Juste Un Clou Ring, Diamonds (Rose Gold) Condition Description: Translating to 'j...
Rose Gold
Cartier 18 Karat White Gold Amethyst Tank Ring
By Cartier
Located in Houston, TX
This ring from Cartier is crafted in 18 karat white gold and features a square cabochon cut amethyst at the center. This is a very simple modern ring but packs a punch. It can be wor...
Amethyst, White Gold
Vintage Numbered Cartier Sapphire Ring in 18k
By Cartier
Located in Webster, NY
Vintage numbered Cartier Blue Sapphire dome ring made in 18k yellow gold. Designer: Cartier Gemstone: Blue Sapphire Gemstone Carat Weight: App...
Sapphire, 18k Gold
Vintage 18K Cartier Tri-Color Ring
By Cartier
Located in Berlin, BE
Vintage 18K Cartier Tri-Color Ring – Yellow Gold, White Gold, and Rose Gold A stunning vintage Cartier ring crafted from a blend of 18K yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold, showc...
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
![Cartier Clash [Un]limited Ring](https://a.1stdibscdn.com/cartier-clash-unlimited-ring-for-sale/j_12723/j_140436721638297114947/j_14043672_1638297115338_bg_processed.jpg?width=240)
![Cartier Clash [Un]limited Ring](https://a.1stdibscdn.com/cartier-clash-unlimited-ring-for-sale-picture-2/j_12723/j_140436721638297135258/w1242_tpadding12_master.jpg?width=240)
Cartier Clash [Un]limited Ring
By Cartier
Located in MIAMI, FL
Cartier Clash [Un]limited ring in the large model. This ring is crafted in 18K white gold, set with 46 brilliant-cut diamonds totaling 0.49 carats. The r...
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold
Cartier Ecrou de Cartier Ring in 18K Rose Gold Size 54
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
A transformation of the ordinary to the extraordinary: the new Écrou de Cartier collection. A bold new design, Écrou de Cartier embodies daring and limitless style. Forceful and exqu...
18k Gold, Rose Gold
Cartier Trinity Crash Diamond Ring in 18k Tri-Gold
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Cartier Trinity Crash diamond ring in 18k-tri gold. This ring features a halo of 24 round brilliant cut diamonds totaling approximately 0.48 car...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Juste Un Clou Nail Ring Small Model Yellow Gold 52 Size
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
A nail becomes jewelry. Designed in 1970s New York, the first Juste un Clou bracelet reflected a wild, freewheeling era. Bold, modern, and innovative, Juste un Clou is a creative twi...
Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Toi et Moi 18k Gold Pearl Bypass Ring
By Cartier
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This Cartier ring from 1996 is a sculptural and refined design crafted in 18k yellow gold, showcasing two beautifully matched cultured pearls in luminous contrasting tones. The polis...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier 18K White Gold Diamond And Onyx Menotte Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite Cartier Menotte Ring is crafted in luxurious 18K white gold with a high-polish finish, showcasing Cartier's timeless elegance and craftsmanship. The ring features a st...
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier Love Ring Classic Model Yellow Gold Wedding Band Size 54
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
A child of 1970s New York, the LOVE collection remains today an iconic symbol of love that transgresses convention. The screw motifs, ideal oval shape, and undeniable elegance establ...
Yellow Gold
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Double Panthere Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
The beauty of wild cats is captured in this striking pre-owned Cartier design. Crafted in 18kt yellow gold, this ring is detailed with black enamel and boasts a double panther motif....
Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Diamond Ring
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Here we have a delightful diamond ring from the world renowned luxury jewellery house of Cartier. This vintage piece has been crafted from 18ct yellow gold and features a captivating...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Mimi Ring in 18K Yellow Gold with Emerald & Diamonds – US 8 1/4
By Cartier
Located in Tokyo, JP
■Item Number: 24050234 ■Brand: Cartier ■Product Name: Mimi Ring ■Material: Emerald, Diamond, 750 K18 Yellow Gold ■Weight: Approximately 14.7g ■Ring Size: Approximately Size: EU：58 /...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Caresse D'Orchidees Pink, Yellow & White Diamond Flower Ring in Platinum
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Cartier Caresse D'Orchidees pink, yellow and white diamond flower ring in platinum, accompanied by Cartier paperwork and Cartier box. This striking ring from Cartier's high jewelr...
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Pink Diamond, Platinum
Panthère de Cartier Ring with Diamonds, Emeralds & Onyx - 18K Rose Gold
By Cartier
Located in North Miami Beach, FL
Introducing the Panthère de Cartier ring in 18K Rose Gold. The ring is set with 2 emeralds and 72 brilliant-cut diamonds totaling 0.68 carats. Onyx is set on the nose of the Panthère...
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, Rose Gold
Panthère De Cartier Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
18K White gold, set with brilliant-cut diamonds, emeralds and onyx. Size - 62 / 10 French Assay Marks Signed - Cartier
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier Panthère De Cartier Emeralds Onyx 1.15ct Diamonds Ring 18k Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
The panther, the symbolic animal of Cartier, made its first appearance in the Maison's collections in 1914. Louis Cartier was the first to tame the mythic animal, and his colleague J...
Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Panthre Lakarda 18K White Gold Ring #5061
By Cartier
Located in Southampton, PA
This 18K white gold Cartier Panthere 'Lakarda' ring makes its presence known through its substantial 25.5-gram build. Curved grooves sweep along the coiled body, while the sharply de...
Cartier Limited Edition Large Dome 18K Yellow Gold Plain Fashion Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A gorgeous limited edition Cartier fashion ring featuring a large dome with a square shaped inner shank. Finely made with 18K yellow gold and features a smooth surface. Size 6.25 US....
Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Vintage Essence De Cartier Love Ring 18 Karat White Rose Gold
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
A vintage Essence De Cartier Love Ring in 18 karat white and rose gold The ring is designed as two classic Love Rings of identical width, the inner rose gold band is hinged and join...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Rose Gold
Cartier 18k Yellow Gold EU 53 Panthere Head Solid Design Spotted Lacquer Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
CARTIER 18K Yellow Gold Panthere Head Solid Design Spotted Lacquer Ring. This is a must-have Cartier ring for every "Cartier addict". The beautiful solid gold Cartier Panthere head...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Juste Un Clou Double Diamond Ring Size P 1/2 (57)
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Here we have an iconic ring from the world renowned luxury jewellery house of Cartier. This piece forms part of the 'Juste un Clou' collection and showcases a triple wrap nail design...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Cartier D'Amour 18k Rose Gold Diamond Wedding Ring Size 51
By Cartier
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301176 Comes With Full Set (Pouch + Card) Date 2012 RRP £3,050 Incl. Taxes / € 3,400 Incl. Taxes / $3,150 Excl. Taxes Model B4093551 Serial Number RZ**** Metal 18k Rose Gold St...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold