Collectible Cartier Bracelets
Since it was founded in 1847, Cartier has been innovative in its designs Cartier is one of the most popular jewelery brands at Sotheby's and accordingly sold over $30 million of Cartier jewelry in 2023. Cartier bracelets are among the most collectible and desired by buyers. Every month, there are more than 600,000 Cartier bracelet related searches. While Sotheby's clients collect and stack the Cartier LOVE bracelet and the Cartier Nail bracelet, they are also always seeking rare and iconic designs. We highlighted four of our favorite Cartier bracelets sold at Sotheby's that represent Cartier's rich history of iconic designs.
1. Art Deco Cartier Bracelet from 1927
The most expensive Cartier bracelet we are highlighting sold for almost $7 million in November 2019. The exceptional Art Deco sapphire and diamond Cartier bracelet was created in 1927. It is adorned with a sensational Royal Blue Burmese sapphire, weighing 47.07 carats, flanked by two stunning pear-shaped white diamonds weighing 9.27 and 8.60 carats respectively. The sapphire is particularly noteworthy for its extraordinary clarity. While gemstones of this quality would normally be faceted, this example was cut into a cabochon shape. The fact that Cartier chose a this cut is a clear design choice, and one which could be regarded as decadent, considering the scarcity of gemstones of this size and quality.
The bracelet was made in 1927, during what many consider the golden era for the prestigious jewelry house, and a time when Cartier’s exploration of Eastern motifs was in full flower. The cabochon sapphire, along with the pear-shaped diamonds cut in the Moghul style, are subtle expressions of Cartier’s embrace of the so-called exotic, while the step-cut diamond and sapphire links of the bracelet reflect the linearity that formed the bedrock of Art Deco design. David Bennett, Worldwide Chairman of Sotheby’s Jewellery Division, commented, “The Cartier Art Deco bracelet is stunning in its design; its central stone is a sensational Burmese sapphire of the highest quality and colour. Timeless pieces such as these are sure to have global appeal.”
Describing the bracelet, Daniela Mascetti, European Chairman of Sotheby’s Jewellery Division, added, “The sapphire and diamond bracelet at the heart of the collection is a truly superb example of the art of Cartier. Its strong and powerful geometric design, somehow reminiscent of architectural solidity, is the perfect foil for the exceptional Burmese cabochon sapphire. The perfectly balanced design, coupled with superb gemstones and remarkable workmanship, makes this jewel a true masterpiece.”
2. Tutti Frutti Cartier Bracelet from 1930
The Cartier Tutti Frutti bracelet was first introduced in 1925 and featured engraved sapphires, emeralds and rubies cut into plant like shapes. The design is a combination of French design and Indian royalty. Jacques Cartier traveled to India in 1911 to witness the coronation of King George as Emperor. This trip would introduce Cartier to the stone carving techniques of Indian jewelry. The colorful carved stones was a departure from the white diamond garlands and bow designs and geometric Art Deco jewelry of the 1920s. A Tutti Frutti Cartier bracelet sold for $508,000 in 2023 and was from 1930. In 2020, Sotheby's sold an even more expensive Cartier Tutti Frutti bracelet for $1.34M. This bracelet was also from 1930 but had a more elaborate design with more gems and diamonds.
3. Panthère Cartier Bracelet
The Cartier Panthère motif was first designed in a watch in 1914. Cartier Panthère remains one its most popular designs. A diamond, sapphire and emerald Cartier Panthère bangle sold for $381,000 in 2023 at Sotheby's.
4. Diamond Cartier Bracelet, 1920
An Art Deco Diamond Cartier bracelet from 1920 sold for $247,000 in 2023. The design is a classic example of the jewelry designs from the 1920s that featured white diamonds in bold geometric lines. Cartier jewelry Art Deco jewelry is highly collectible and remains modern today.
Buying and Selling Cartier Bracelets At Sotheby's
Sotheby's often has rare and collectible Cartier bracelets available at auction including exceptional Cartier Tutti Frutti bracelets. Sotheby's also has a curated selection of Cartier bracelets available for immediate purchase. If you would like to view a Cartier bracelet, a salon specialist would be happy to assist. Sotheby's is also able to source Cartier bracelets from its global supplier network.
- Explore upcoming jewelry at auctions in New York, London, Switzerland, Paris, and Hong Kong.
- Speak to a Salon Associate in New York, Zurich or Hong Kong to schedule an appointment.
- Speak to a Jewelry Specialist about selling Cartier bracelets.
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