Cartier at V&A London: 350 jewels and the story of luxury

Published in Unique Estates Life Spring Issue 2025

For the September 2016 cover of W Magazine, Rihanna was photographed wearing the legendary Scroll Tiara along with a Cartier choker and earrings. Commissioned in 1902, it was worn on the day of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. These historic jewels are part of the major Cartier exhibition at the V&A Museum in London, running from April 12 to November 16, 2025. More than 350 pieces trace the history that established La Maison as an unrivaled force in the world of jewelry and watchmaking.

Highlights include the brooch commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, featuring the rare 23.6-carat pink Williamson diamond, as well as Grace Kelly’s engagement ring, worn in her final film High Society (1956). Also featured is a collection of Cartier’s iconic panther jewelry, one of the brand’s most enduring and instantly recognizable symbols, alongside timepieces that embody their unique and innovative approach to craftsmanship. In addition to the precious jewels and stones, the exhibition showcases never-before-seen sketches from the V&A and Cartier archives. Some pieces are on loan from the British royal collection, others from major UK and international museums and private collections.

SYMBOL OF LUXURY

The exhibition presents the company’s legacy in art, design, and craftsmanship since the early 20th century, when the three grandsons of founder Louis-François set out to establish the first globally recognized jewelry house, opening branches in Paris, London, and New York. With a distinguished client list of royals and aristocrats, Cartier became known as “the jeweler of kings and the king of jewelers.” Later, its appeal expanded thanks to the loyalty of leading artists from the worlds of cinema, music, and fashion.

“This exhibition will show how Louis, Pierre, and Jacques Cartier, along with their father Alfred, embraced a strategy of original design, exceptional craftsmanship, and international expansion that transformed a Parisian family business into the ultimate symbol of luxury. What is striking is not only Cartier’s groundbreaking achievements but also the company’s ability to transform and remain at the heart of culture and creativity for over a century,” said curators Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan.