Cartier

Flora is a timeless motif in jewelry. The beginning of Cartier's floral jewelry can be traced back to the early 20th century, an era marked by the Art Nouveau movement's fascination with natural motifs. During this period, artists and designers drew inspiration from the organic forms of plants, infusing them into their creations. At Cartier, the inspiration formed unique pieces featuring an unusual choice of species, such as an orchid, cactus or even hydrangeas. Flowers and leaves were replicated in stylized, even abstract, compositions in addition to breathtakingly naturalistic designs. This realism was encouraged by Jeanne Toussaint, Cartier’s Creative Director from 1933 to the early 1970s, and has since been enriched with fine jewelry making techniques, as exemplified by this bracelet.

This exceptional bracelet inspired by hydrangeas is centered around a magnificent 58.21 carat cushion-cut amethyst. Surrounding the amethyst are diamonds and carved rubies meticulously arranged to resemble arrangements of florets. Garnet beads along the bracelet add volume and structure, evoking the hydrangea’s blooms. Placed in a shaded array of violet hues, the stones form a delicate palette reminiscent of nature's own artistry.