CARTIER JEWELS IN THE CROWN
The Victoria and Albert Museum’s Cartier exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the world of one of the most legendary names in luxury. More than just a showcase of glittering gemstones, the exhibition reveals how Cartier shaped not only the jewellery industry but also the tastes of royalty, fashion icons, and high society throughout the 20th century and beyond.
With origins dating back to 1847 in Paris, Cartier quickly became the go-to house for kings, queens, and global tastemakers. The exhibition traces this journey, presenting stunning examples of craftsmanship, from tiaras worn at coronations to modernist brooches and bold Art Deco statement pieces. Each item tells a story not just of wealth, but of artistry and innovation.
Among the highlights are pieces created for the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Grace of Monaco, and Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor. There are diamond-studded panthers, opulent emerald necklaces, and intricately worked timepieces, all demonstrating Cartier’s extraordinary design language. The house’s ability to fuse European elegance with global influences, from Indian Mughal motifs to Chinese jade carvings, makes each creation visually striking and culturally rich.
Beyond the glitter, the exhibition delves into the creative process behind the pieces, showcasing original sketches, design notes, and photographs from the Cartier archives. These materials highlight the meticulous detail and forward-thinking approach that have made Cartier a constant innovator, blending technical precision with aesthetic daring.
The exhibition also captures Cartier’s deep connection with fashion, cinema, and modern culture. Iconic women such as Maria Félix, Elizabeth Taylor, and Daisy Fellowes not only wore Cartier but also collaborated with the maison to create some of its most daring pieces. Their personal style and charisma helped transform jewellery into a statement of identity and rebellion, not just beauty.
Set against the elegant backdrop of the V&A, the exhibition is more than a historical display; it’s a sensory experience of sparkle, colour, and form. It invites visitors to reflect on the enduring power of design, the symbolism of luxury, and the artistry that lies behind every jewel. Cartier’s creations are presented not as ornaments, but as wearable works of art.
Whether you’re a jewellery enthusiast, a lover of design, or simply curious to see what royalty wears behind closed doors, the V&A’s Cartier exhibition offers a captivating journey through glamour, craftsmanship, and cultural legacy — all in one unforgettable setting.