Collectible Cartier Bracelets
Since its founding in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, Cartier has been at the forefront of luxury jewelry design, captivating collectors and connoisseurs with its innovative craftsmanship. Over the decades, Cartier has introduced some of the most iconic and sought-after bracelet designs in the world. From the geometric precision of Art Deco to the exotic influences of India, Cartier has continually redefined elegance and sophistication.
Today, Cartier bracelets are among the most coveted pieces at auctions, consistently achieving record-breaking sales. While collectors eagerly seek out the legendary LOVE and Juste un Clou bracelets, there is also a growing demand for rare, vintage, and historically significant Cartier creations. Below, we highlight four exceptional diamond Cartier bracelets sold at Sotheby’s, each a testament to the brand’s rich heritage and artistic mastery.
Art Deco Cartier Sapphire and Diamond Bracelet Circa 1927
One of the most extraordinary Cartier bracelets ever sold at auction, this breathtaking Art Deco sapphire and diamond bracelet from 1927 fetched nearly $7 million in November 2019. At its heart lies a striking 47.07-carat Royal Blue Burmese sapphire, flanked by two pear-shaped diamonds weighing 9.27 and 8.60 carats, respectively. The sapphire’s rare clarity and cabochon cut—a bold choice considering the stone’s exceptional quality—underscore Cartier’s commitment to artistry over convention.
Created during the golden era of Art Deco, this bracelet epitomizes Cartier’s fascination with Eastern influences. The cabochon sapphire and Moghul-style pear-shaped diamonds reflect an embrace of exoticism, while the geometric arrangement of step-cut diamonds and sapphires showcases the sleek modernism of the 1920s.
David Bennett, Worldwide Chairman of Sotheby’s Jewellery Division, described it as "a sensational Burmese sapphire of the highest quality and color," while Daniela Mascetti, European Chairman of Sotheby’s Jewellery Division, called it “a truly superb example of the art of Cartier.” The bracelet’s impeccable balance of strong architectural design, exquisite gemstones, and masterful craftsmanship makes it a true collector’s masterpiece.
Tutti Frutti Cartier Bracelet Circa 1930
Cartier’s vibrant Tutti Frutti design, first introduced in 1925, was a groundbreaking departure from the white diamond garlands and geometric Art Deco trends of the time. Inspired by Jacques Cartier’s travels to India in 1911, these bracelets feature elaborately carved sapphires, emeralds, and rubies arranged in a colorful, nature-inspired motif that blends French design with Indian craftsmanship.
In 2023, a Tutti Frutti Cartier bracelet from 1930 sold for $508,000 at Sotheby’s, while an even more elaborate Tutti Frutti bracelet with more gems and diamonds from the same year achieved $1.34 million in 2020. With its bold color palette and intricate carving, the Tutti Frutti bracelet remains one of Cartier’s most distinctive and collectible designs, embodying the house’s ability to merge diverse artistic traditions into a single, harmonious creation.
Panthère Cartier Bracelet
First introduced in 1914, Cartier’s Panthère motif has become one of its most enduring symbols of strength, elegance, and allure. Originally appearing in a watch design, the panther has since been reimagined in countless variations across Cartier’s collections.
In 2023, a diamond, sapphire, and emerald Cartier Panthère bangle sold for $381,000 at Sotheby’s, demonstrating the continued demand for this fierce and iconic design. The Panthère motif embodies Cartier’s mastery of both realism and abstraction, capturing the fluidity and power of the panther while maintaining the sophistication expected of fine jewelry.
Diamond Cartier Bracelet Circa 1920
A classic example of Cartier’s Art Deco excellence, a 1920s diamond Cartier bracelet sold for $247,000 in May 2023. Featuring bold geometric patterns crafted entirely from white diamonds, this piece perfectly encapsulates the aesthetic of the Roaring Twenties—where jewelry became an expression of modernity and liberation.
Art Deco Cartier bracelets remain highly collectible today, as their sleek lines and timeless appeal continue to captivate collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike. These pieces not only reflect the artistic movements of their time but also serve as enduring statements of luxury and sophistication.
Cartier’s legacy as a pioneer in fine jewelry design is evident in the extraordinary bracelets that continue to captivate collectors around the world. Whether it’s the striking geometry of an Art Deco masterpiece, the vibrant Tutti Frutti creations, the bold elegance of the Panthère, or the sheer brilliance of diamond-studded designs, Cartier diamond bracelets are more than just accessories—they are works of art, steeped in history and craftsmanship.
As Cartier continues to innovate while honoring its storied past, these collectible diamond bracelets remain timeless investments, embodying the essence of luxury and refinement. For collectors and admirers alike, owning a diamond Cartier bracelet is not just about possessing a piece of jewelry—it’s about holding a piece of history.
Advantages to Buying Cartier Bracelets on the Secondary Market
There are many advantages to buying Cartier bracelets at Sotheby's. As one of the largest and most established global luxury secondary markets, Sotheby's offers clients many unique advantages when growing a Cartier bracelet collection.
1. Access
Sotheby's is able to provide access to a curated selection of Cartier bracelets from its long established global network of sellers. Sotheby's is a leading global marketplace that offers pristine Cartier bracelets in the most coveted designs. Our jewelry specialists are always sourcing the more desirable Cartier bracelets from collectors around the world. Sotheby's also sells incredible private collections that include one of a kind Cartier bracelets.
2. Flexibility
Sotheby's provides multiple ways to purchase Cartier bracelets including auction, online and in person in New York, Hong Kong, Zurich, Paris and London. Sotheby's also offers a concierge service if you need assistance sourcing a specific Cartier bracelets that aren't available at auction or online.
3. Value
As a leading global secondary market, Sotheby's often provides great value for Cartier bracelets. While Sotheby's regularly sells Cartier bracelets over $100,000, many of these Cartier bracelets sell for below the original retail price. Some pieces may experience a 30 to 40% decrease from retail price to secondary market. The discount varies depending on the bracelet's design, quality, size of the diamond and gem stones, and overall market conditions. Some Cartier bracelets can also sell at a premium to the original retail, especially for one of a kind vintage designs, bracelets with provenance linked to celebrities and/or royalty, and pieces featuring exceptionally rare diamonds and colored gem stones. Sotheby's is a great place to start collecting Cartier bracelets. Sotheby's also provides seasoned collectors value for vintage Cartier bracelets at prices that can be materially lower than retail replacement values.
4. Discovery
One of the best parts of a global luxury secondary market is discovering unique pieces from decades earlier and custom designed one of a kind Cartier bracelets. Sotheby's curated selection changes regularly and each auction has a unique selection of Cartier bracelets. You are likely to discover something new to you.
Buy and Sell Diamond Cartier Bracelets At Sotheby's
Sotheby's often has rare and collectible Cartier bracelets available at auction including Cartier LOVE, Panthère, and Juste Un Clou designs. Sotheby's also has a curated selection of Cartier bracelets available for immediate purchase. If you would like to view Cartier bracelets, a salon specialist would be happy to assist. Sotheby's is also able to source Cartier bracelets from its global supplier network. Prices for Cartier bracelets start around $6,000 for Cartier LOVE bracelets and rise significantly for more coveted diamonds. Iconic Cartier bracelets, such as emerald panthère bangle bracelets can exceed $130,000.
- Explore upcoming jewelry at auctions in New York, London, Switzerland, Paris, and Hong Kong.
- Speak to a Salon Associate in New York, Zurich, London, Paris, or Hong Kong to schedule an appointment.
- Contact a Jewelry Specialist about selling diamond Cartier bracelets.
Trust our worldwide network of leading jewelry specialists from a globally renowned auction house established in 1744.