News

The History Of Cartier

Whether you’ve been lusting after a LOVE bracelet, or you wear the house’s eau de parfum, you know the name Cartier. This is the French maison’s history and how it came to be one of the biggest names in luxury.

Cartier jewelry

The epitome of French luxury, Cartier is a trusted and undoubtedly celebrated name in the expansive world of jewelry and beyond. A brand that began as a local success, Cartier now has over 200 boutiques worldwide, with a repertoire expanding far beyond jewelry alone. We take a close look at the history of Cartier the brand.

The History Of Cartier

Louis-François Cartier went from apprentice to master in 1847. It was in this year that Cartier took over his mentor’s jewelry workshop and store in Paris. During this time, it was the era of the French Revolution and Louis-François Cartier had come from humble beginnings, which made the future of his success less of a certainty.

Louis-François’s third grandson, Louis Cartier, was lucky enough to become acquainted and popular with the French aristocracy. This cemented Cartier’s reputation as one associated with luxury and indisputable good taste. Had it not been for his popularity among the wealthy, Cartier would not have developed the success that it did. The support from Cartier’s clients allowed the brand to fund a new store, which would eventually move to Rue de la Paix in 1899.

Louis Cartier was responsible for some of the biggest and most notable changes to the brand's journey. One of the house’s best-loved creatives, he was behind designs such as the famous Tank watch. To this day, Louis is regarded as one of the most innovative and influential figures in the brand’s history. His flair for opulence and innovation still fuels the brand’s raison d’être today.

About Cartier Today

Cartier still takes great pride in its ability to push boundaries in the world of design and innovation. Expert craftsmanship is at the core of the brand and everything they do. The maison exists in over 60 countries, sharing the Parisian spirit of the brand far and wide.

The house has had an everlasting strong link with royalty, from Princess Grace Kelly to Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. The panther mascot itself displays a particularly regal air, especially when perching over the 5th Avenue New York store during the holiday season. As a favorite with celebrities, the brand is certainly synonymous with eternal luxury, with designs that bridge the gap between timeless style and creativity.

Today, Cartier is under the Richemont group and Cyrille Vigneron is the brand’s CEO. Cartier now sells jewelry, watches, home décor, bags, and other accessories.

What Are The 5 Best Cartier Accessories?

  1. LOVE collection
  2. Tank watches
  3. Eternity collection
  4. Juste Un Clou collection
  5. Panthère collection
Cartier jewelry


1. LOVE Collection

Cartier’s LOVE collection was introduced in 1969. Because the bracelet was created to symbolize free-spirited love, it has famously been gifted to a number of celebrity couples, and the most notable couple is perhaps Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. The bracelet features engraved screw motifs throughout, because they reflect the bracelet's famous closure. Due to a binding fastening, the bracelet is symbolic of eternity. The collection has expanded throughout the years and includes other types of jewelry, such as rings and earrings.

Retail price range: $550 - $62,000
Resale prince range: $895 - $14,995

2. Tank Watch Collection

The Tank watch is without doubt one of the most well-known designs, created by Louis Cartier in 1917. Within the collection, there are the: Tank Must, Tank Française, Tank Louis Cartier, Tank Américaine, Tank Cintrée, and Tank Chinoise.

Retail price range: $2,790 - $74,500
Resale price range: $1,850 - $7,950

3. Trinity Collection

Another line-up introduced by Louis Cartier is the Trinity collection. Since 1924, the Trinity selection has comprised jewelry pieces showcasing three intertwined bands. The bands represent the notion of everlasting friendship and love. The collection spans all jewelry categories, from rings, to earrings, to bracelets, and necklaces.

Retail price range: $680 - $46,300
Resale price range: $960 - $35,000

4. Juste Un Clou Collection

Another house classic, the original Juste Un Clou bracelet was designed in 1971. The Juste Un Clou bracelet looks like a curved nail. The various designs from the collection come in different metals, with some including embellishments, such as diamonds.

Retail price range: $900 - $326,000
Reslae price range: $3,750 - $11,125

5. Panthère Collection

The panther is symbolic for Cartier, especially because it has been part of the brand since 1914. The big cat features equally within the house’s collections and throughout its branding. Not only is there a Panthère jewelry collection, but also a watch collection.

Retail price range (jewelry; watches): $3,450 - $337,000 ; $3,200 - $238,000
Resale price range (jewelry; watches): $750 - $11,950 ; $2,100 - $9,450

How To Sell Cartier Accessories?

Sell your Cartier accessories to myGemma, for an easy, quick, and safe selling experience. Our team of in-house expert authenticators will ensure you get the very best price for your designer and luxury accessories, whether it’s Cartier jewelry or limited-edition sneakers. Not only is it the secure way to sell, but the entire process can take as little as 24 hours. Get your price quote today.

Cartier watch


Where To Buy Cartier Online?

Whether you’ve got your heart set on a LOVE bracelet, a Trinity ring, or a Tank watch, myGemma is the go-to destination for pre-owned luxury. Choosing to buy pre-owned is your positive contribution to a circular economy. Not only is it better for the planet, but it is also more wallet-friendly than buying straight from retail. You can shop with confidence, whether it’s a pair of Hermès sneakers, a Gucci handbag, or a Cartier bracelet, as each design is expertly authenticated.

Make sure to check our New Arrivals section, as myGemma’s website is regularly updated with the latest and greatest in pre-owned accessories. Shop an array of luxury and designer pieces at up to 80% off retail.