Dear jewelry collector, mark your calendars! The Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) is set to host a Cartier exhibition—the first of its kind in nearly 30 years. Starting April 12, 2025, this landmark event will showcase over 350 extraordinary pieces from Cartier’s rich history, uniting jewels worn by British royalty, Indian Maharajahs, Hollywood legends, and music icons like Rihanna.
The event is more than just an exhibition; it’s a deep reflection of Cartier’s 177-year legacy of unrivaled craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless allure. From royal commissions to red-carpet showstoppers, this is where luxury, history, and culture converge. Let’s explore some of the treasures waiting for us at the Cartier V&A Exhibition.
What will be on display at the Cartier V&A Exhibition?
Among the 350+ masterpieces, here are the highlights that have set the jewelry world buzzing:
The Williamson Diamond Brooch
Few jewels carry as much history as the Williamson Diamond brooch, created for Queen Elizabeth II. The story begins in 1947, when Canadian geologist John Williamson discovered a remarkable 54.5-carat pink diamond at the Williamson diamond mine in Tanganyika (now Tanzania). As a wedding gift to Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the uncut diamond was already destined for greatness. By 1948, the diamond had been expertly cut into a 23.6-carat brilliant round by London cutters Briefel and Lemer. Queen Elizabeth II later commissioned Cartier to transform the stone into a brooch in 1953, just before her coronation. Designed by Frederick Mew, the brooch centers on the vibrant pink diamond, surrounded by five diamond-pavé petals and a baguette-cut diamond stem.
Today, the Williamson Diamond is considered one of the finest pink diamonds in the world. In 2022, its value was estimated at an astounding $33.9 million.
The Scroll Tiara
The Scroll Tiara is a masterpiece of the Garland Style, a design movement characterized by intricate openwork and delicate scroll motifs. Commissioned in 1902, this tiara features a dazzling array of 1,048 diamonds set in gold and silver—a rare choice at the time, as platinum was the more popular metal for tiaras. The tiara’s history is equally remarkable. Originally designed for Adele, Countess of Essex, it was later worn by Clementine Churchill, wife of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. By the late 20th century, the piece risked being dismantled for its diamonds. Fortunately, Eric Nussbaum, then-director of the Cartier Collection, saved it in 1990 by acquiring it from a gem dealer.
The tiara gained renewed fame in 2016 when Rihanna wore it on the cover of W Magazine’s September issue, styled as a modern-day queen. This stunning blend of royal and pop culture heritage makes the Scroll Tiara a true standout in Cartier’s history.
Princess Margaret’s Rose Clip Brooch
Princess Margaret, Queen Elizabeth II’s younger sister, was known for her impeccable taste in jewelry. Among her most iconic pieces was the Cartier Rose Brooch, a striking three-dimensional design created in 1938. The brooch features a pavé-set rose in full bloom, with baguette-cut diamonds forming its leaves and stem. This brooch made its most memorable appearance during Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953, when Princess Margaret paired it with the Cartier Halo Tiara.
The Rose Brooch is a testament to Cartier’s ability to capture nature’s beauty in precious metals and gemstones. It remains a symbol of elegance and sophistication, just like its original owner.
Grace Kelly’s Engagement Ring
When Prince Rainier III of Monaco proposed to Grace Kelly, he did so with a ring that would go down in history. The 10.48-carat emerald cut diamond, flanked by baguette diamonds, was the epitome of old Hollywood glamour. Created by Cartier, the ring became an instant icon, inspiring countless engagement ring designs over the decades. Grace Kelly’s ring wasn’t just a piece of jewelry; it was a reflection of her status as a Hollywood star and her new role as Princess of Monaco. The ring’s influence can be seen in modern designs worn by celebrities like Beyoncé, Amal Clooney, and Anne Hathaway.
Why The Cartier V&A Exhibition Matters
Cartier’s influence stretches far beyond royalty, touching the worlds of cinema, music, and fashion. Therefore, the Cartier V&A Exhibition is not just about admiring jewels—it’s about exploring history, art, and culture through the lens of one of the world’s most iconic brands. Visitors will gain insight into Cartier’s rise from a Parisian jeweler to a global symbol of luxury.
Expect to see rare watches, historic gemstones, and innovative designs that showcase Cartier’s craftsmanship. The exhibition also includes pieces lent by King Charles from the Royal Collection, adding an extra layer of regal splendor.
Plan Your Visit To The Cartier V&A Exhibition
Dates: April 12 – November 16, 2025
Location: V&A South Kensington, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 2RL
Tickets: £27 on weekdays, £29 on weekends (concessions available)
Featured image: Cartier
Sewelo is a world where jewelry, watches, and objects come alive in a shimmering dance of fantasy. Through a literary lens, we celebrate the beauty and elegance that make these treasures more than just possessions.
