Set to open its doors to the public on 12th April 2025, the V&A will unveil the UK’s first major Cartier exhibition in nearly 30 years, tracing the Maison‘s rise as a global powerhouse in jewellery and watchmaking. Showcasing over 350 exceptional pieces, the exhibition traces Cartier’s journey of artistry, design, and craftsmanship from the early 20th century to present time.
It was during this transformative era that the founder’s grandsons – Louis, Pierre, and Jacques – set out to establish Cartier as the first truly global jewellery house, with outposts in Paris, London, and New York. With a clientele of royalty and aristocracy, Cartier quickly earned its moniker as “the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers.” Over time, its allure expanded beyond the elite, capturing the hearts of leading figures in cinema, music, and fashion.
The exhibition will bring together brilliant jewels, historic gemstones, and iconic timepieces from both the V&A and Cartier Collections. Highlights include showstopping objects, never-before-seen design drawings from the archives, and rare pieces on loan from His Majesty The King’s Royal Collection, alongside treasures from leading UK and international museums and private collections.
In terms of exhibition design, it is helmed by British architect and artist Asif Khan MBE, continuing Cartier’s long-standing tradition of collaborating with visionary artists to shape its scenography. This immersive approach sets the stage for an extraordinary display of craftsmanship, heritage, and innovation.
Exhibition highlights include the Williamson Diamond Brooch, commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and set with the rare 23.6-carat pink Williamson diamond; the Scroll Tiara, commissioned in 1902 and worn at Elizabeth II’s coronation – later gracing Rihanna on the cover of W magazine in 2016; and a 1938 rose clip brooch worn by Princess Margaret at her sister’s coronation.
Visitors will also see Grace Kelly’s iconic engagement ring from the Monaco Princely Palace Collection, which she wore in her final film High Society (1956); an amethyst and sapphire brooch crafted by Cartier London around 1933 for Jacques Cartier’s wife Nelly; and Mexican film star María Félix’s striking snake necklace from 1968.
Other standouts include the majestic Manchester Tiara (1903), created for the Dowager Duchess of Manchester; a collection of Cartier’s emblematic panther jewels, including a diamond pavé and onyx bracelet from 1978; and a curated selection of Cartier timepieces, such as the pioneering Crash wristwatch, designed by Cartier London in 1967.
Exhibition curators Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan shared, “Cartier is one of the most famous jewellery houses in the world. This exhibition will explore how Louis, Pierre and Jacques Cartier, together with their father Alfred, adopted a strategy of original design, exceptional craftmanship, and international expansion that transformed the Parisian family jeweller into a household name.”
“With its world-class jewellery collection, the V&A is the perfect stage to celebrate the pioneering achievements of Cartier and its transformative ability to remain at the centre of culture and creativity for more than a century. We are excited to be able to share with visitors some of Cartier’s most famous creations as well as revealing previously unseen objects and archive material that further enriches our understanding of a jewellery house that continues to influence the way we adorn ourselves today.”
Exhibition designer Asif Khan said: “I wanted our collaboration to be a dreamscape where art and science converge, with Cartier’s pieces suspended in light, time, and sound, allowing history to breathe and the future to linger.”
Organised into three thematic sections, the exhibition will delve into Cartier’s creative evolution – tracing the development of its signature style, its legacy of technical innovation and masterful craftsmanship, and its refined approach to image-making that has ensured the brand’s enduring relevance in a constantly changing world.
A special focus will be given to the history and influence of Cartier London, leading to a dazzling finale: a spectacular showcase of tiaras that epitomise the Maison’s timeless allure.
The Cartier exhibition runs at V&A South Kensington from 12 April 2025 to 16 November 2025. Tickets are now available for purchase via this website.
Images courtesy of V&A
