These tiaras are a perfect example of Cartier’s craftsmanship at its best.
The above antique tiara was created by Cartier for Princess Marie Bonaparte in 1907.
Cartier was founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis-Francois Cartier. It was his three grandsons, Louis, Pierre and Jacques, who were responsible for establishing Cartier’s reputation around the world.
The golden age of Cartier design is considered to be between the 1920s and 1930s, the height of Art Deco's timeless elegance. It was at this time that platinum began to be mastered in the making of jewelry at Cartier workshops. Platinum allowed for more freedom in design as it was more durable and was striking when set against diamonds and other brilliant gemstones.
Cartier tiara circa 1922 from the 2012 Biennale Retrospective at Cartier Paris
A platinum tiara set with graduated old mine cut diamonds set in arches with a pear shaped diamond at the top, weighing about 4.31 carats. Signed Cartier Londres Paris New York with a maker's mark for Atelier Renault 1920.
The Art Deco influence is undeniable in this tiara which features repetitive arches resembling stylized fountains that can be found in other elements of design from this time period. A beautiful example of the fountain fashion outside of jewelry is the ‘Parfumerie Française’ stand at the 1925 Paris World Fair.
