Discover Cartier's Timeless Legacy at the V&A

Opening on the 12th of April, the V&A will host the UK’s first major exhibition in nearly 30 years dedicated to Cartier, one of the most renowned jewellery houses in the world. The exhibition will delve into how Cartier became an unparalleled force in the realms of jewels and watches, celebrating its legacy of craftsmanship, design, and innovation. Although the exhibition isn't open until April, tickets have just been released for purchase so grab them before they glitter away.

A Journey Through Cartier's Legacy

The exhibition will showcase over 350 objects, offering an in-depth look at the evolution of Cartier's art, design, and craftsmanship since the early 20th century. Highlighting how the three grandsons of founder Louis-François Cartier - Louis, Pierre, and Jacques - transformed the family business into the world’s very first globally recognised jewellery house. These three trailblazing grandsons established branches in Paris, London, and New York, earning Cartier its title as “the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers.” As the house expanded its clientele to include celebrities, musicians, and fashion icons, Cartier’s influence grew far beyond the likes of royalty.

Iconic Objects and Unseen Masterpieces

Jewellery is something that can never quite convey just how striking it is through a picture, that impact has to be done in person. The upcoming exhibition will feature a stunning array of precious jewels, historic gemstones, watches, clocks, and unseen drawings from both the V&A and the Cartier Collection. Key highlights will include: the Williamson Diamond Brooch (1953), commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II and featuring a rare 23.6-carat pink diamond; Scroll Tiara (1902) worn at the coronation of Elizabeth II and famously by Rihanna in 2016; Grace Kelly’s Engagement Ring (1956) and a series of antique Cartier timepieces including the Crash Wristwatch (1967).

A Dreamlike Design Experience

The exhibition design is led by British architect and artist Asif Khan MBE, continuing a tradition of boundary-pushing collaborations. Khan envisions a dreamscape where Cartier’s pieces are suspended in a balance of light, sound, and time, allowing visitors to experience history in a contemporary setting.

The exhibition will be made up of three main sections. The first exploring Cartier’s signature style—an eclectic mix of global influences and historical art movements. The second diving deep into Cartier's technical ingenuity, revealing how its workshops became centres of technical innovation, perfecting traditional techniques while experimenting with new ones. Visitors will witness the making of panther motifs, one of Cartier’s most enduring symbols. And finally, Cartier's pioneering approach to image-making, exploring how the jewellery house have carefully cultivated its image as the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Through advertising, exhibitions, and collaborations with couturiers, Cartier became a household name.

Tickets for the Cartier exhibition at the V&A have been released and are on sale now, find out more and buy tickets via this link and read our full guide of Fashion Exhibitions Not to Miss in 2025 here.