For its extraordinary range of bracelets, watches, rings and other adornments, French luxury house Cartier is undeniably one of the most well known and internationally revered jewelers in the world among clients both existing and aspirational.
Perhaps 1847 was not the ideal time to open a new watchmaking and jewelry business, as the French Revolution was not kind to the aristocracy who could afford such luxuries. Nevertheless, it was the year Louis-François Cartier (1819–1904) — who was born into poverty — founded his eponymous empire, assuming control of the workshop of watchmaker Adolphe Picard, under whom he had previously been employed as an assistant. Of course, in the beginning, it was a relatively modest affair, but by the late 1850s, Cartier had its first royal client, Princess Mathilde Bonaparte, niece of Napoleon Bonaparte, who commissioned the jeweler to design brooches, earrings and other accessories.
Under the leadership of Louis-François’s son, Alfred, who took over in 1874, business boomed. Royalty around the world wore Cartier pieces, including Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, the Maharaja of Patiala and King Edward VII, who had 27 tiaras made by the jewelry house for his coronation in 1902 and issued Cartier a royal warrant in 1904. (Today, the British royal family still dons Cartier pieces; Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, regularly sports a Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch.)
Cartier’s golden years, however, began when Alfred introduced his three sons, Louis, Pierre and Jacques, to the business. The brothers expanded Cartier globally: Louis reigned in Paris, Pierre in New York and Jacques in London, ensuring their brand’s consistency at their branches across the world. The trio also brought in such talents as Charles Jacqueau and Jeanne Toussaint.
One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch — one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. (Previously, a large number of people were using only pocket watches.) Louis designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to be able to check the time more easily while flying.
Cartier’s other famous timepieces include the Tank watch, which was inspired by the linear form of military tanks during World War I, and the so-called mystery clocks. Invented by watchmaker and magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin and later crafted exclusively for Cartier in the house’s workshop by watchmaker Maurice Couët, the mystery clocks were so named because the integration of glass dials on which the clocks’ hands would seemingly float as well as structures that are hidden away within the base give the illusion that they operate without machinery.
On the jewelry side of the business, Cartier’s internationally renowned offerings include the Tutti Frutti collection, which featured colorful carved gemstones inspired by Jacques’s trip to India and grew in popularity during the Art Deco years; the panthère motif, which has been incorporated into everything from brooches to rings; and the Love bracelet, a minimal, modernist locking bangle inspired by medieval chastity belts that transformed fine jewelry.
While the Cartier family sold the business following the death of Pierre in 1964, the brand continues to innovate today, renewing old hits and creating new masterpieces.
Find contemporary and vintage Cartier watches, engagement rings, necklaces and other accessories on 1stDibs.
Cartier Silverplate Milk Jug Cocktail Shaker by Reed & Barton
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A distinctive and highly collectible silverplate cocktail shaker in the form of a classic milk jug, crafted by the renowned American silversmith Reed & Barton and retailed under ...
Silver, Silver Plate
Set of Four Cartier 'Trinity' Sterling Silver Champagne Flutes
By Cartier
Located in Brisbane City, QLD
This set of four sterling silver champagne flutes were made for retail by Cartier during the second half of the 20th century. The set which are crafted from solid sterling silver fea...
Gold Plate, Silver, Sterling Silver
CARTIER Pocket Make Up Hand Mirror with Leather Case Sterling Silver Lapis
By Cartier
Located in Switzerland, CH
CARTIER pocket hand mirror with leather case A very rare and limited piece 925 Sterling Silver with Lapis stone detail Looks like a sea shell - such a special piece! The front has a mirror Ideal gift for any Cartier fan...
Lapis Lazuli, Sterling Silver
Cartier Sterling Silver Hammered Carafe/Vase with Engraving
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Vintage sterling silver carafe/vase by Cartier with engraving. Engraving says "WILLIAM P. SCHLOTH STARTED DECEMBER 26, 1955 AND GOING STRONG" ...
Sterling Silver
Cartier Apple Mid-Century Modern Picture Frame Sterling Silver
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
This is a stunning and rare Cartier Sterling Silver Picture Frame in an Apple Motif. The frame is signed Cartier and is a fabulous Mid-Century Modern piece of vintage Cartier. I l...
Silver, Sterling Silver
Vintage Cartier Sterling Silver Matchbox Case Holder Monogrammed Set of 2
By Cartier
Located in Westport, CT
A vintage set of of mid-century Cartier sterling silver matchbox holders with original match boxes and matches. Each retains its fitted wooden matchbox tray and side striker panel. B...
Sterling Silver
Cartier .925 Sterling Silver Child's Fork, Signed, 3.75 Inches Long
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A rare and charming collectible, this Cartier child’s fork is crafted in fine .925 sterling silver, weighing approximately half an ounce and measuring 3.75 inches in length. Elegantly signed on the reverse, it reflects the heritage of Cartier’s master silversmithing, made in the USA with exceptional craftsmanship. Sterling silver baby gifts...
Silver, Sterling Silver
$1,600
H 3.13 in W 1.5 in L 5.5 in
Figural Israel & Son Ltd. Sterling Silver Cow Creamer or Milk Pitcher
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A very fine figural sterling silver creamer or milk pot by Israel Freeman & Son. In the form of a cow with a loop 'tail' handle, hinged lid to the back, and spout at the mouth. A t...
Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co Estate Fashion Tulip Hand Mirror Sterling Silver 74.78 Grams
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Authentic Tiffany & Co Estate Fashion Tulip Hand Mirror Sterling Silver 74.78 Grams TIF761 Made in Italy This beautiful Authentic Tiffany Fashion Hand Mirror has been newly pol...
Sterling Silver
Alex Jona Sterling Silver Dog Bone Money Clip
By Alex Jona
Located in Lugano, TI
Alex Jona hand crafted in Italy, rhodium plated sterling silver dog bone money clip with paw inlay. Alex Jona gifts stand out, not only for their special design and for the excellen...
Sterling Silver
Alex Jona Sterling Silver Oval Money Clip
By Alex Jona
Located in Lugano, TI
Alex Jona hand crafted in Italy, Sterling Silver money clip. Alex Jona gifts stand out, not only for their special design and for the excellent quality, but also for the careful at...
Sterling Silver
Coral Turquoise Chinese Export Silver Perfume Snuff Bottle Antique Filigree
Located in New York, NY
THIS IS AN ANTIQUE ART DECO SILVER FILIGREE CHINESE EXPORT CORAL AND TURQUOISE PERFUME BOTTLE, SNUFF BOTTLE. THE SILVER FILIGREE IS OF THE HIGHEST Q...
Coral, Turquoise, Silver
$389Sale Price|20% Off
H 3.15 in W 2.66 in D 0.4 in
Stunning Solid Sterling Silver 1927 Gold Gilt Inside Cigarette Case Ng & Co
Located in GB
Wimbledon-Furniture Wimbledon-Furniture is delighted to offer for sale this lovely Solid Sterling Silver The Northern Goldsmiths Newcastle upon tyne 1927 engine turned cigarette cas...
Sterling Silver
Whiting Sterling Silver Small Bon Bon Spoon with Monogram
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Sterling silver bon bon spoon by Whiting Manufacturing Co in a floral pattern. Monogram appears to be S (on the top of the back of the handle) Beautifu...
Sterling Silver
$437
W 2.5 in D 0.38 in L 2.5 in
Vintage Gucci Sterling Silver Rhinestone Mirror Powder Compact #16521
By Gucci
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Vintage sterling silver mirror powder compact by Gucci. Beautiful textured design featuring red and blue rhinetstones and an etched sho...
Sterling Silver
Diminutive Kay Ivankovic Sterling Silver & Opal Gemstone Vase
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A wonderful 1980's handmade sterling silver vase. By Kay Ivankovic. Kay Ivankovic, the high-level contemporary British silversmith, is known for her flowing, organic forms. This hand-chased vase...
Opal, Sterling Silver
$2,700Sale Price|40% Off
Sterling Silver European Estate Rococo Hammered Frame with Cherubs
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Beautiful European Estate Rococo Sterling Picture Frame with Hand Hammered Embossed Cherubs holding Wreaths of Garland and Floral Motifs. Sign...
Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver Handcuffs Key Holder
By Alex Jona
Located in Lugano, TI
Alex Jona design collection, hand crafted in Italy, Sterling Silver Handcuffs key holder. Alex Jona gifts stand out, not only for their special design and f...
18k Gold, Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver Hand-Painted Enamel Habana Cigar Cufflinks
By Alex Jona
Located in Lugano, TI
The perfect gift for discerning connoisseur cigar smokers. These unique double cigar sterling silver cufflinks, designed by Alex Jona, are hand crafted and hand enameled in Italy, t...
Sterling Silver, Enamel
Sold
H 5.65 in W 1.4 in D 1.4 in L 5.65 in
Cartier Pair of Weighted Sterling Silver Bud Vases, Height 5 3/8"
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Bring timeless luxury and refined French elegance to your home décor with this pair of authentic Cartier weighted sterling silver bud vases. Expertly crafted with Cartier's renowned ...
Silver, Sterling Silver
Sold
H 15 in W 15 in D 2 in L 15 in
Cartier Weighted Sterling Silver Candlesticks & Gorham Candelabra Set
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
An elegant ensemble of fine sterling silver lighting, featuring a pair of Cartier weighted sterling candlesticks alongside an unmatched pair of Gorham three-light weighted sterling candelabra. This grouping offers timeless sophistication, exceptional craftsmanship, and strong decorative presence for formal interiors. Cartier Weighted Sterling Silver Candlesticks Maker: Cartier Material: Weighted Sterling Silver Height: 10 inches Marks: N75 B & M Form: Classic single-light candlestick design These Cartier candlesticks embody refined luxury with balanced proportions and a clean, architectural silhouette. Crafted in weighted sterling silver for stability, they reflect Cartier’s tradition of producing distinguished silver objects suitable for formal dining and elegant entertaining. The 10-inch height makes them ideal for dining tables, mantels, or console displays. Design Appeal: Understated yet unmistakably luxurious, these candlesticks complement both traditional and transitional interiors. Gorham Weighted Sterling Silver Three-Light Candelabra Maker: Gorham Material: Weighted Sterling Silver Pattern/Model: #SD3 Height: 15 inches Configuration: Three-light arms Condition Note: Unmatched pair The Gorham three-light candelabra offer greater scale and visual drama. Standing 15 inches tall, each piece features gracefully curved arms with removable inset branches, allowing versatility in display. Gorham’s longstanding reputation for fine American silver craftsmanship ensures quality construction and enduring appeal. Design Appeal: The multi-light form creates a striking focal point for dining tables, sideboards, or formal entertaining spaces. Styling & Use This collection is ideal for: Formal dining room settings Holiday entertaining and special occasions Traditional or classic interior décor Silver collectors and luxury home enthusiasts Wedding or anniversary gifts The combination allows layered candlelight presentation—use the Cartier sticks for understated elegance and the Gorham candelabra...
Silver, Sterling Silver
Vintage Mid-Century Cartier Sterling Silver Cocktail Spoon or Stirrer
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver cocktail stirrer. By Cartier. In sterling silver. In a sleek modern design with a shovel shaped spoon bowl and a ball finial to the handle. Simply wonderful ...
Sterling Silver
Cartier Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Round Ash Tray Holder Dish
By Cartier
Located in Sewickley, PA
This exquisite Cartier ashtray is a rare example of refined luxury design, crafted in solid 14k yellow gold. Weighing 21.0 grams and measuring 2.5 inch...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier French Sterling Silver Bottle Opener
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine vintage French sterling silver bottle opener. In sterling silver. By Cartier. With an engraved bottle to one side of the handle. With a filled handle and a stainless steel...
Sterling Silver
Cartier Handmade Sterling Silver Woven Mint Basket
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A Compact Masterpiece from a Legendary Maison Infuse your space with the heritage and refinement of this Cartier Handmade Sterling Silver Basket. Known for their impeccable craftsman...
Silver, Sterling Silver
Sold
H 1.42 in W 1.02 in L 1.42 in
Cartier Sterling Silver 8 Piece Salt & Pepper Shakers with Box #19699
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Cartier Sterling Silver 8 Piece Salt & Pepper Shakers - This wonderful set of 4 salt (silver top) & 4 pepper (gold tone top) shakers are sterling silver and each bottom is marked wi...
Sterling Silver
4pc Set of Cartier Sterling Silver 2 Salt & 2 Pepper Shakers with Box #19269
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Set of 4 sterling silver salt and pepper shakers by Cartier with box. This set of 4 includes 2 salt shakers and 2 pepper shakers. The salt shakers feature smaller holes, the pepper ...
Sterling Silver
Sold
W 1.06 in L 5.88 in
Set of 6 Cartier Marie Louise Sterling Silver Grapefruit Spoons w/Mono #19263
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Set of 6 sterling silver grapefruit spoons in the Marie Louise pattern by Cartier with monogram. Monogram appears to be D Cartier's Marie Louise pattern features a simple and timel...
Sterling Silver
Set of 6 Cartier Marie Louise Sterling Silver Demitasse Spoons w/Mono #19264
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Set of 6 sterling silver demitasse spoons in the Marie Louise pattern by Cartier with monogram. Monogram appears to be D Cartier's Marie Louise pattern features a simple and timele...
Sterling Silver
Set of 4 Cartier Marie Louise Sterling Silver Butter Spreaders w/Mono #19265
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Set of 4 sterling silver flat handle butter spreaders in the Marie Louise pattern by Cartier with monogram. Monogram appears to be D Cartier's Marie Louise pattern features a simpl...
Sterling Silver
Cartier Sterling Silver Ice Tongs 2232-1 #18801
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Cartier sterling silver ice tongs. No monogram Accordion scissor style ice tongs featuring 3 fork-like tines on each arm. Measures approx 7 1/2" long. Weighs approx 89.9g, 57.8dw...
Sterling Silver