The Five Most Expensive Cartier Necklaces
Explore Cartier’s most expensive necklaces, from high-jewelry icons to record-breaking creations adorned with exceptional diamonds and colored gems.
Cartier has long been synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Sotheby’s has highlighted some of the most extraordinary Cartier necklaces ever offered at auction—pieces that span eras, styles, and materials, each one a testament to the maison’s creative brilliance. From iconic heritage designs to rare gemstone treasures, these necklaces reflect Cartier’s enduring legacy in the world of high jewelry. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply an admirer of luxury design, the following highlights offer a glimpse into the very best of Cartier's artistry. Read on to discover the most expensive Cartier necklaces sold at auction in 2023.
Most Expensive Cartier Necklaces
| Rank | Model | Notable Features | Price (USD) |
| 1 | Cartier Sapphire and Diamond Necklace | 1950s swag design with 34.91 carats of sapphires (Kashmir origin, unheated) and 40.09 carats of diamonds. | $2.8 million |
| 2 | Cartier Jadeite and Diamond Necklace | 31 bright green natural jadeite beads (“A Jade”) with diamond Cartier clasp in 18k white gold. | $1.3 million |
| 3 | Cartier Diamond Necklace | Floral and foliate design, entirely set with D–F color, IF–VS2 clarity diamonds; royal provenance. | $738,000 |
| 4 | Cartier Diamond, Sapphire, Emerald, and Onyx ''Panthère' Necklace-Brooch Combination | Convertible design (necklace and brooch) with sapphires (16.57 ct), diamonds (30.71 ct), emeralds & onyx. | $711,000 |
| 5 | Cartier Natural Pearl and Diamond Necklace | Three graduated strands of natural saltwater pearls with step-cut and baguette diamond spacers. | $675,000 |
1. Cartier Sapphire and Diamond Necklace - 2,843,000 USD
The Cartier Sapphire and Diamond Necklace sold for $2.8 million in June 2023. This 1950 Cartier necklace features 34.91 carats of sapphires and 40.09 carats of diamonds. The Cartier necklace is a swag design featuring five emerald- and square emerald-cut sapphires weighing 10.01, 7.66, 7.35, 5.45 and 4.44 carats, accented by round, baguette and square-cut diamonds. The sapphires are medium to medium deep blue, richly saturated, eye-clean to slightly included and are of Kashmir origin, with no indications of heating. The diamonds are approximately E-G color, predominantly VVS-VS clarity with a few SI clarity examples.
2. Cartier Jadeite Bead and Diamond Necklace - 10,130,000 HKD
The second most expensive Cartier necklace, Jadeite Bead and Diamond Necklace, sold for 10.12 million HKD in April 2023. The Jadeite bead necklace is accompanied by a diamond Cartier clasp. The necklace is set with 31 slightly graduated bright green jadeite beads of very good translucency, complete with a Cartier marquise-shaped diamond clasp, mounted in 18 karat white gold. The jadeite beads are approximately 16.93 to 14.68mm and tested as natural, known in the trade as "A Jade". The diamonds on the clasp are estimated to weigh approximately 2.80cts, about E-F colour, SI clarity.
3. Cartier Diamond Necklace - 596,900 CHF
The magnificent Cartier Diamond Necklace, sold for 596,900 CHF in May 2023. This exquisite floral and foliate design necklace is set entirely with brilliant-cut, pear-shaped, and cushion-shaped diamonds. The stones range from D to F color and are Internally Flawless to VS2 clarity. With royal provenance—it was formerly owned by a Princess—this necklace blends regal heritage with timeless Cartier elegance.
4. Cartier Diamond, Sapphire, Emerald and Onyx 'Panthère' Necklace-Brooch Combination - 711,200 USD
The iconic Diamond, Sapphire, Emerald and Onyx 'Panthère' Necklace-Brooch Combination, sold for 711,200 USD in June 2023. The Cartier Panthère necklace offers versatility, transforming from a statement necklace into a brooch and a separate necklace, allowing for multiple styling options. Adorned with sapphires (16.57 carats), diamonds (30.71 carats), emeralds, and onyx, the piece embodies the spirit of the iconic Cartier Panthère—an enduring symbol of strength, femininity, and innovation. The stones are of high quality, with diamonds in F-G color and VVS-VS clarity. More than a jewel, it is a tribute to Cartier’s most legendary motif.
5. Cartier Natural Pearl and Diamond Necklace - 508,000 GBP
The fifth most expensive Cartier Natural Pearl and Diamond necklace sold for 508,000 GBP in February 2023. This 1930s necklace showcases three graduated strands of natural saltwater pearls. The creamy white pearls, subtly tinted with rose and green overtones, are enhanced by diamond spacers set with step-cut, circular-cut, and baguette diamonds. Displaying both luster and symmetry, the piece represents Cartier’s mastery in working with rare and organic materials.
These exceptional Cartier necklaces, each remarkable in its own way, reflect the house’s unparalleled commitment to craftsmanship, material excellence, and design innovation. From iconic motifs like the Panthère to rare gemstones like Kashmir sapphire and natural pearl, these jewels capture the essence of Cartier’s place at the pinnacle of fine jewelry. Their strong results at auction affirm their status as timeless works of art coveted by collectors across the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Five Most Expensive Cartier Necklaces
What makes Cartier’s sapphire and diamond necklaces so valuable?
Cartier’s sapphire pieces are prized for their use of Kashmir sapphires, known for their velvety blue hue and rarity. When paired with Cartier’s impeccable diamond craftsmanship, these pieces often achieve multimillion-dollar results at auction.
Why is the Panthère design iconic for Cartier?
Introduced in the early 20th century, the Panthère became a symbol of independence and allure. This motif, rendered in diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and onyx, remains one of Cartier’s most enduring and recognizable signatures.
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