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.
Vintage Cartier Diamond Ruby Daphne 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Domed Ring EU52
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Diamond & Ruby 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Daphne Ring. Stunning yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 4mm centre diamond with F/G Colour and VVS cl...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER White Gold Stella Diamond Ring - Size 50
By Cartier
Located in Bellevue, WA
Details: Size 50 950 Platinum Stone Count: 3 Stone Shape: Round Brilliant IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This item is a pre-owned piece. We have made every effort to accurately describe and...
Vintage Cartier Diamond & Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Daphne Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Diamond And Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Ring. Stunning yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 3.5mm centre diamond with F/G colour and VVS c...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Diamond And Blue Sapphire 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Daphne Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Diamond And Blue Sapphire 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Ring. Stunning yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 3.5mm centre diamond with F/G Colour and VVS ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier 1990's Sapphire Diamond 18 Karat Two-Tone Gold Vintage Three Stone Ring
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Centering a square step-cut sapphire weighing approximately 0.36 carats - transparent deep blue Bezel set and flanked by transitional cut diamonds weighing approximately 0.36 carat t...
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Sapphire and Diamond Three-Stone Ring
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Here we have a refined three-stone ring from the world renowned luxury jewellery house of Cartier. At the centre of the face lies is a striking asscher-cut rich blue sapphire, exudin...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
$304,000Sale Price|20% Off
Cartier 4.99 Carats No-Heat Blue Sapphire & Diamond Three-Stone Engagement Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A gorgeous engagement ring, featuring a very rare 4.99 carats cushion cut blue sapphire certified by both AGL and Gubelin as Sri Lankan origin (Ceylon), set on a four prong setting. ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
Cartier Yellow Square Emerald Cut Diamond 3 Stone Ring in PLAT/18K Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Golden Glow: Embrace the brilliance of this Cartier 3 stone diamond ring featuring a Fancy Intense Yellow square emerald cut diamond at its heart. Made in platinum and 18k yellow go...
Diamond, Platinum, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier GIA Certified 13.46 Carats Oval Cut Yellow Diamond Engagement Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
An exquisite Cartier engagement ring, showcasing a vibrant 13.46 carats oval cut yellow diamond certified by GIA as Fancy Intense Yellow color and VS1 clarity, set on a classic four ...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$63,600Sale Price|20% Off
Cartier 1.50 Carat Round Brilliant Diamond Platinum Engagement Ring
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
This elegant Cartier engagement ring is a refined expression of timeless sophistication and exceptional craftsmanship. Expertly crafted in platinum, the ring features a classic and p...
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
Cartier 1.55 carat GIA FVVS1 Emerald Cut Diamond Three Stone Ring with Sapphires
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
This sophisticated and unique Cartier ring would be a one of a kind engagement ring or perfect as a right hand statement piece. This ring showcases a stunning 1.55 carat emerald cut...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
CARTIER Paris Starburst Three-Stones Ring In Platinum & 1.55 Carats VVS Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
A platinum three-stones ring designed by Cartier. Fabulous three-stone setting ring created by the prestigious Parisian jewelry house of Cartier. This exceptional diamond ring is a ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
Cartier Turquoise, Amethyst, Sapphire Cabochon Trio Ring, 18k Textured Gold
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A beautiful Cartier Turquoise, Amethyst, Sapphire Cabochon Trio Ring made in 18 Karat Yellow Gold. The gold is textured. Total Weight: 12.39 grams. Ring Size: 5.25
Amethyst, Sapphire, Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Diamond and Sapphire Three Stone Ring, French, circa 1950
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Cartier diamond and sapphire three stone ring. Centrally set with a square step cut diamond, H-I colour, VVS2-VS1 clarity, with an approximate weight of 0.80 carats, in an open back ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Cartier 1.55 carat GIA FVVS1 Emerald Cut Diamond Three Stone Ring with Sapphires
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
This sophisticated and unique Cartier ring would be a one of a kind engagement ring or perfect as a right hand statement piece. This ring showcases a stunning 1.55 carat emerald cut...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
4.54 Carat Oval Ruby Diamond Shield Platinum 18K Yellow Gold Three Stone Ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A rare and meaningful 4.54 carat oval ruby and diamond three stone ring by Merkaba Jewelry Beverly Hills, crafted in platinum and 18K yellow gold. Centered by a vivid oval ruby accom...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Platinum, Yellow Gold, Gold
European Cut Diamond Sapphire Art Deco Filigree Gold Three-Stone Ring
Located in Stamford, CT
Diamond and sapphire three-stone ring. Filigree sides and shoulders, 14k white gold setting with a flat top set with two Sapphires and one old European cut diamond center. Late Art D...
Blue Sapphire, Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold, Gold
18 Karat White Gold 1.52 Carats Sapphire and Diamond Three-Stone Ring
By Gems Paradise
Located in Jaipur, IN
18 Karat White Gold 1.52 Carats Sapphire and Diamond Three-Stone Ring Artfully formed into a contemporary silhouette, this vibrant ring showcases the classic combination of Sapphires with Diamonds. Three oval-cut sapphires are placed in concatenation with a shared prong-setting. Opulent Brilliant-Cut Diamonds surround the Sapphires creating a halo and adding a glimmer to the ring for a timeless and exquisite look. The beautiful design converges into a plain gold band...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier Yellow Square Emerald Cut Diamond 3 Stone Ring in PLAT/18K Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Golden Glow: Embrace the brilliance of this Cartier 3 stone diamond ring featuring a Fancy Intense Yellow square emerald cut diamond at its heart. Made in platinum and 18k yellow go...
Diamond, Platinum, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 1.55 Carat Sapphire and Diamond Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring, circa 1900
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning, fine and impressive antique 1.55 karat sapphire and 0.20 karat diamond, 18 karat yellow gold cocktail ring; part of our diverse diamond jewelry and estate jewelry collections. This stunning, fine and impressive sapphire and diamond ring has been crafted in 18k yellow gold. The scrolling setting features a stunning pavé set cushion cut sapphire to the centre of the design. The feature gemstone is flanked on either side by round faceted cut sapphires. This antique ring is further accented with four impressive Old European cut diamonds pavé set between the feature stones, in addition to an Old European cut diamond to either end, completing the design. The elevated and flared, scroll decorated ring shoulders blend seamlessly with the plain 18k yellow gold ring shank. This cushion cut sapphire ring in yellow gold has been independently tested using state of the art technology (Niton XL2 Analyzer) and verified as 18 karat gold. This impressive example of antique sapphire jewellery is supplied with an independent diamond grading report card. Images do not always reflect the true color and brilliance of gemstones and diamonds. The video however provides a truer representation of the actual color and showcases each stone within this cushion cut sapphire ring in yellow gold. Condition This sapphire and diamond ring is excellent quality, set with stunning sapphires displaying fine color, brilliance and presence. The impressive supporting diamonds display a fine white color and brilliance. The ring is an excellent gauge of gold and in excellent condition. Sapphire Quality Color Blue Cut Cushion/Round Faceted Content 1.55 carats Diamond Quality Color (average grades) H Clarity (average grades) SI1 Cut Old European Dimensions Length of setting 2.01cm/0.79" Width of setting 7.48mm/0.29" Height of setting 3.33mm/0.13" Ring Size UK Size L 1/2 USA Size 5 7/8 The ring size may be professionally adjusted in size on request to meet your personal requirements. Weight 4.43 grams Date: Circa 1900 Video: A video of this fine piece is available upon request. Reflections in photographs may detract from the true representation of this fine example of antique amethyst jewelry...
Diamond, Sapphire, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. 1.00 Carat Tanzanite and Diamond Three-Stone Ring
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Santa Monica, CA
A sophisticated collector’s piece, this Tiffany & Co. three-stone ring from the Bracken Jewelers collection in Santa Monica, California, features a mesmerizing 1.00 carat tanzanite, ...
Diamond, Tanzanite, Platinum
Victorian 18K Gold Three Stone Ring with Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, 1870
Located in Napoli, IT
Victorian Three Stone This classy Victorian statement is suitable for him her Charming, substantially hand fabricated in 18 KT gold, rose gold Centering 1 oval cushion old miner cut ...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, 18k Gold
$304,000Sale Price|20% Off
Cartier 4.99 Carats No-Heat Blue Sapphire & Diamond Three-Stone Engagement Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A gorgeous engagement ring, featuring a very rare 4.99 carats cushion cut blue sapphire certified by both AGL and Gubelin as Sri Lankan origin (Ceylon), set on a four prong setting. ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
$3,828Sale Price / item|20% Off
Certified Diamond and Blue Sapphire Three Stone Ring 18k Solid White Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Certified Diamond and Blue Sapphire Three Stone Ring Set in 18K Gold featuring natural sapphire of 1.09 carats and diamonds of 0.78 carats. The gorgeous handcrafted ring goes with ev...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$2,844Sale Price / item|20% Off
2.8 Ct Blue Sapphire & Diamond Three Stone Engagement Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Three stone blue sapphire and diamond ring in 18K gold which perfectly goes with your personality. Three stone rings come wi...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
$1,364Sale Price / item|20% Off
Natural 18k Yellow Gold Emerald Ring, Three Stone Emerald and Diamond Ring
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Emerald Diamond Ring in 18K gold featuring natural emerald of 1.65 carats and diamonds of 0.23 carat. The gorgeous handcrafted ring goes with every style. Emerald enhances the intell...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Diamond Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Daphne Ring 51
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Diamond And Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Signet Ring. 18k yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 3.5mm centre diamond with F/G Colour and VVS clar...
Emerald, White Diamond, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Cartier 18k Gold Diamond Sapphire Daphne Ring
By Cartier
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A vintage Cartier Daphne ring crafted in 18k yellow gold and set with a central diamond framed by two blue sapphires. The stones are gypsy‑set into...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Cartier 3 Diamond 18ct White Gold Love Band Ring
By Cartier
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Cartier 3 Diamond 18ct White Gold Love Band Ring Product Details Xupes Ref: J679 Brand: Cartier Model: 3 Diamond Love Band Ring Type: Ring Serial Number: A***** RRP: £4,200 Accompan...
Diamond, White Gold
Cartier Diamond And Blue Sapphire 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Daphne Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Diamond And Blue Sapphire 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Ring. Stunning yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 3.5mm centre diamond with F/G Colour and VVS ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Diamond Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Daphne Ring 50
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...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER Vintage Trinity Ring with Five Brilliant Cut Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Aventura, FL
The Cartier Vintage Trinity Ring from the 1990s is an iconic symbol of timeless elegance and meaning. Expertly crafted in 18k tri-color go...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier French vintage three row diamond 18k yellow and white gold ring
By Cartier
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This striking French vintage Cartier ring showcases three elegant rows of shimmering diamonds that create a refined, radiant presence from every angle. The interplay of yellow and wh...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier 3 Diamond 18ct Yellow Gold Love Band Ring
By Cartier
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
Cartier 3 Diamond 18ct Yellow Gold Love Band Ring Product Details Xupes Ref: COMJ874 Brand: Cartier Model: 3 Diamond Love Band Ring Type: Ring Serial Number: S***** Age: 2022 RRP: £...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
Cartier 18k Tri Color Gold Heavy Wide Trinity Rolling Ring sz 53
By Cartier
Located in Montclair, NJ
Material: Solid 18k Yellow, Rose & White Gold Weight: 15.68 Grams Ring Size: Size 53 - Approx. 6.25 US (We cannot custom size this ring.) Ring Width: 11.6mm (0.45 in) (approx.) (all ...
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Diamond Ruby Daphne 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Domed Ring EU53
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Diamond & Ruby 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Daphne Ring. Stunning yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 4mm centre diamond with F/G Colour and VVS clarit...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Blue Sapphire Ellipse 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Band Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Vivid Blue Sapphire 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Band Ring. Stunning yellow gold Cartier ring set with a three fine vivid blue sapphires. Fine jewellery houses l...
Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier No Heat Sapphire Diamond Platinum 18K Gold Vintage Three Stone Ring
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Centering a cushion cut sapphire weighing 2.80 carats - transparent medium blue Natural Madagascar in origin and displaying no indications of heat treatment Prong set in yellow gold ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum