The V&A will host the highly anticipated Cartier exhibition, opening on April 12th, 2025. This major exhibition marks the first comprehensive Cartier showcase in the UK in nearly three decades, offering a glimpse into the brand’s storied legacy of luxury and craftsmanship. The exhibition will span three key themes: design, craftsmanship, and materials, and will feature over 350 objects that trace Cartier’s evolution since its founding in 1847.
Among the standout works will be the Williamson Diamond brooch, a stunning floral design set with various diamond cuts and a rare 23.6-carat pink Williamson diamond. This brooch, commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, is one of the exhibition’s star pieces. Another highlight is the Scroll Tiara, worn by Queen Elizabeth II during her coronation and later famously styled by Rihanna for a 2016 magazine cover.
Curated by Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan, the exhibition delves into how the Cartier family, including Louis, Pierre, and Jacques, revolutionized jewellery design through exceptional craftsmanship and global expansion. The exhibition will also explore the brand’s cultural references, from royal commissions to celebrity clients. The display will be housed in The Sainsbury Gallery, under the V&A’s iconic courtyard, offering a dramatic setting for these rare and iconic pieces.
