Cartier revolutionized the world of jewelry in the early 20th century by incorporating elements of travel, art, and culture. The iconic designs created by the Cartier brothers – Louis, Pierre, and Jacques – continue to inspire the brand’s new High Jewelry collections. The recent showcase of Beautés du Monde in Madrid perfectly captured Cartier’s ability to bridge the past and present.
To commemorate the occasion, Cartier invited press, clients, and celebrity brand ambassadors to the Spanish capital, highlighting the brand’s historical connection to Madrid, which dates back a century. The exhibition-style presentation of Beautés du Monde marked the centennial celebration.
The exhibition took place at the Embassy, a remarkable architectural gem designed by Bryant and Blanco-Soler in 1966. Cartier painstakingly restored the avant-garde building, which had been unused since 2009. The interior installation, created by Spanish artist Jaime Hayon, featured a series of repeating arches as a symbol of strength, diversity, and abundance.
Of course, the true stars of the exhibition were the jewels themselves, which were a testament to Cartier’s craftsmanship and vision. The collection was incredibly vast and encompassed a wide range of themes, from flora and fauna to exotic destinations.
Several pieces left a lasting impression, such as a stunning green diamond set at the center of an architectural diamond ring. Another standout design was the Récif Necklace, adorned with a striking combination of coral, emeralds, and white diamonds, a nod to Cartier’s Art Deco heritage. The Rituel Necklace, featuring azure chalcedony and rubies, also captivated with its unique color scheme.
The jewelry collection took on a new dimension during an evening dinner party at the magnificent Palacio de Liria, an 18th-century residence that belongs to the Dukes of Berwick and Alba and is one of Madrid’s grandest private homes. The models not only showcased the jewels but also wore clothing by Spanish fashion designers Arnaud Maillard & Álvaro Castejón. The evening reached its climax when flamenco dancers surprised guests with a lively performance accompanied by castanets.
In a statement about the collection, Jacqueline Karachi, Cartier’s Creative Director of High Jewelry, emphasized that “Cartier sees beauty wherever it is found.” It is evident that Cartier not only appreciates beauty but also enhances it wherever it goes.
Take a closer look at the collection, as showcased by Cartier ambassador Yara Shahidi, in the photos and video below. The contemporary styling highlights the versatility of these unique and rare gemstone treasures, which can effortlessly complement both elegant gowns and casual white shirts.
Yara Shahidi wearing the Cartier Beautés du Monde High Jewelry necklace composed of platinum, cabochon-cut emeralds, hexagonal and round emeralds, rose and brilliant-cut diamonds.
Yara Shahidi wearing Cartier Beautés du Monde High Jewelry necklace composed of platinum, cabochon-cut opals, sapphires, brilliant-cut diamonds.
Yara Shahidi wearing the Cartier Beautés du Monde High Jewelry necklace, platinum, cabochon-cut opals, sapphires, brilliant-cut diamonds.
Yara Shahidi wearing the Cartier Beautés du Monde High Jewelry crocodile necklace composed of white gold, emerald eyes, rock crystal, kite-shaped, shield-shaped, lozenge-shaped, and brilliant-cut diamonds.
