Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and iconic designs, Cartier has crafted some of the most exquisite rings to have graced the hands of royalty, celebrities, and discerning collectors alike. Many of these designs and collections have remained coveted symbols of status, sophistication, and personal style for decades – long after they were first introduced.
We specialise in valuing and acquiring iconic pieces like Cartier rings. In this guide, we’ll share our top 10 list of the most popular, beautiful, and celebrated pieces Cartier produces.
1. The Cartier Love Ring
The Cartier Love ring, first introduced in 1969, remains one of the most iconic symbols of everlasting commitment and romance. Designed by Aldo Cipullo for Cartier New York, the Love ring was inspired by the idea of unbreakable bonds. Its design, featuring distinctive screw motifs and a sleek, unbroken band, reflects the permanence and strength of true love. Unlike traditional rings that slide on effortlessly, this ring was designed to be secured tightly, symbolising an unyielding connection between two people.
Crafted in yellow, rose, and white gold, the Love ring is available with or without diamonds, catering to both minimalist tastes and those who prefer a touch of brilliance. Each screw symbolises the fastening of love, with its unique mechanism originally intended to be secured with a matching Cartier screwdriver – further emphasising the notion of a love that is “locked in” and secure.
Occasions This Ring is Used For
The Love ring is often chosen by couples as a wedding or bridal ring, or to mark milestones such as engagements, anniversaries, and personal celebrations. Its timeless appeal also transcends fashion trends, however, making it ideal to pass down through the generations as a cherished heirloom.
2. The Cartier Trinity Ring
First conceived in 1924 by Louis Cartier himself, the Cartier Trinity ring is a masterpiece of simplicity and symbolism that has endured for over a century. Unlike any other jewellery design of its time, the Trinity ring features three interlocking bands, each representing one of the core tenets of meaningful relationships: fidelity, friendship, and love. Crafted in three distinct types of gold – yellow, white, and rose – each band symbolizes a unique aspect of connection:
- Yellow gold, symbolising fidelity and commitment, reflecting the strength and constancy of lasting love.
- White gold, representing friendship and the purity of true companionship.
- Rose gold, evoking the warmth and passion of romantic love.
3. Cartier Juste un Clou Rings
The Juste un Clou Ring, which translates to “Just a Nail” in French, is a bold testament to Cartier’s ability to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. Originally designed by Aldo Cipullo for Cartier New York in the 1970s, this iconic piece reimagines a simple nail as a luxurious statement of modern elegance. Inspired by the rawness of industrial design, the Juste un Clou Ring transforms the mundane into something sleek, sophisticated, and unapologetically daring.
The Juste un Clou ring made its triumphant reappearance in Cartier’s collection in recent years, bringing its distinctive aesthetic to a new generation of collectors and fashion enthusiasts. Its reintroduction only further solidified its status as a contemporary classic, symbolising boldness, freedom, and an unyielding spirit.
Materials and Design
Crafted in yellow, rose, and white gold, with options for diamond embellishments, its smooth, curved form wraps effortlessly around the finger. The design is minimalist yet powerful, striking in its simplicity while reflecting a spirit of rebellion against traditional jewellery norms. Cartier’s signature craftsmanship ensures that each curve and surface is polished to perfection.
4. Panthère de Cartier Rings
The Panthère de Cartier ring is a symbol of untamed elegance and fierce luxury, capturing the spirit of Cartier’s most iconic motif – the panther. First introduced in 1914, the panther has become synonymous with the brand’s boldness and artistry. Jeanne Toussaint, Cartier’s Creative Director during the 1930s, solidified the panther motif as a timeless representation of strength, grace, and independence.
The Panthère de Cartier ring collection is a stunning display of Cartier’s craftsmanship. Meticulously designed with everything from emerald eyes to onyx spots and intricate detailing, these rings perfectly embody the feline’s sleek form and predatory grace. Each is sculpted to reflect the panther’s poised yet powerful essence, with their contours and textures crafted to mirror the natural grace of this majestic creature.
5. Clash de Cartier Rings
The Clash de Cartier ring is a bold expression of Cartier’s ability to redefine jewellery with a modern, avant-garde twist. First introduced in 2019, this collection breaks traditional design barriers, showcasing a sharp contrast between sophistication and rebellion. The ring’s geometric aesthetic features studded accents and perfectly symmetrical shapes, creating a visual clash that is both captivating and daring.
Crafted in rose gold, white gold, and sometimes adorned with diamonds, the Clash de Cartier ring embodies a duality that reflects strength and softness, refinement and edge. Its unique design merges Cartier’s classic heritage with contemporary flair, appealing to collectors who appreciate jewellery that challenges norms while maintaining an air of luxury.
6. Cartier Ballerine Rings
The Cartier Ballerine ring is a quintessential embodiment of elegance, drawing inspiration from the delicate movements of a ballerina. Its timeless design exudes refinement, making it a cherished choice for those seeking a ring that radiates both romance and luxury.
Crafted primarily in platinum or white gold, the Ballerine ring often features a dazzling array of brilliant-cut diamonds, meticulously set to create a sparkling, ethereal effect. The ring’s soft, rounded lines and intricate settings evoke the fluidity and poise of a dancer, capturing the essence of ballet in motion.
Occasions This Ring is Used For
Due to its refined, symbolic aesthetic, the Ballerine ring has become especially popular as an engagement ring.
7. Étincelle de Cartier Ring
The Étincelle de Cartier ring, aptly named after the French word for “spark,” is a testament to Cartier’s mastery in creating jewellery that exudes understated finesse and captivating brilliance. With its delicate design and shimmering diamonds, the Étincelle collection is perfect for those who appreciate refined luxury without the need for extravagant embellishments.
Crafted with pavé-set diamonds that are meticulously arranged to maximise sparkle and light reflection, the ring is available in white gold, rose gold, and platinum. Its slender, graceful band makes it an ideal choice for stacking or wearing alongside other fine jewellery, adding a touch of charm to any ensemble.
8. Cactus de Cartier Rings
The Cactus de Cartier ring is a bold departure from traditional jewellery design, celebrating the unexpected beauty of desert flora. First introduced in 2016, this striking collection showcases Cartier’s ability to find inspiration in nature’s most resilient forms, transforming the often-overlooked cactus into a symbol of artistic luxury and avant-garde style.
Crafted in yellow gold and adorned with vibrant gemstones such as emeralds, carnelians, and diamonds, the Cactus de Cartier is as much a piece of art as it is a piece of jewellery. Its textured surfaces and sculptural form reflect the unique structure of a cactus, capturing its essence in a way that is both luxurious and distinctive. The ring’s bold silhouette and intricate craftsmanship embody Cartier’s fearless approach to jewellery design.
Why a Cactus?
Cartier has used this piece to celebrate what the Maison refers to as the “hidden beauty” of a cactus, a plant we can observe and admire from a distance, but dare not touch. Defying traditional notions of loveliness, it is designed for those who appreciate avant-garde aesthetics and statement pieces that draw attention and admiration.
9. Cartier Maillon Panthère Rings
The Maillon Panthère ring is a brilliant extension of Cartier’s legendary Panthère collection, reflecting the same timeless and bold design seen in the iconic Panthère watch. Known for its distinctive interlocking chain links, the Maillon Panthère embodies a seamless blend of strength and sophistication, capturing the essence of Cartier’s mastery in jewellery craftsmanship.
Crafted in yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold, the ring’s design is both fluid and structured, mimicking the graceful movement of a panther. For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the Maillon Panthère Ring is also available with brilliant-cut diamonds expertly set along its polished links, adding an element of sparkling brilliance to its architectural silhouette.
The interwoven links are not merely decorative; they represent Cartier’s commitment to precision and artistry, each segment meticulously sculpted and aligned to perfection. This attention to detail is what makes the Maillon Panthère not just a piece of jewellery, but a statement of elegance and resilience.
10. Cartier Agrafe Rings
The Agrafe ring is a stunning example of Cartier’s ability to blend luxury with inspired design. Taking its cues from haute couture, the ring is modelled after the elegant hook-and-eye closures traditionally used in fashion garments. This unique source of inspiration reflects Cartier’s long-standing tradition of drawing from diverse artistic realms to create exceptional jewellery pieces.
Crafted in white gold, rose gold, or yellow gold, the Agrafe features intricate detailing that mimics the graceful curves and secure clasp of couture fastenings. Cartier elevates this design with the inclusion of brilliant-cut diamonds, strategically placed to enhance its refined elegance and light-catching brilliance. Each element of the ring is meticulously sculpted, highlighting Cartier’s unparalleled craftsmanship and commitment to perfection.
Why Come to Us for Information on Cartier Rings?
We are trusted experts in antique and luxury jewellery, with decades of experience handling iconic pieces from world-renowned houses like Cartier. Whether you own a vintage Trinity ring or a bold Juste un Clou, we understand the craftsmanship, history, and market demand that make each piece truly special.
What sets Burlingtons Ltd. apart is our personalised, discreet home valuation service, led by founder and industry expert Daniel Ives. With years of experience and a deep passion for fine jewellery, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a personal touch to every consultation. He visits clients across the UK, offering in-depth assessments in the comfort of their own homes.
Unlike traditional auction houses that charge high commissions and delay payouts, we offer a fast, fair, and stress-free alternative. Every valuation is informed by current market trends and Daniel’s extensive international network of collectors, ensuring that you receive a fair price for your piece. All valuations are free of charge and come with no obligation to sell.
Discover the True Value of a Cartier Ring
From the romantic lines of the LOVE ring to the avant-garde flair of the Clash de Cartier, each ring design reflects a legacy of luxury that has captivated collectors and connoisseurs for generations. These pieces don’t just hold sentimental value; they are also highly desirable assets in today’s high-end jewellery market.
If you own a Cartier ring and are considering parting with it, we offer a refined, trustworthy alternative to traditional selling routes. Contact Burlingtons Ltd. today to schedule a free home valuation and discover the true market value of your treasure.
