Cartier’s 3 most iconic high jewellery pieces: the Panthère, Love and Juste un Clou bracelets are brand icons that have endured in the imagination for decades

Feb 14 , 2024

Cartier’s Panthère, Love and Juste un Clou have been brand signatures for decades and jewellery using these motifs remain popular today. Photo: Handout

Cartier

Dating back to 1969, the romantic Love bracelet was designed by Aldo Cipullo to signify an eternal connection – with a screwdriver required to take the band on and off

The Italian-American designer was also behind the classic ‘Juste un Clou’ – which means ‘just a nail’ – while the signature panther motif first appeared on a wristwatch in 1914, before showing up on a bracelet

You don’t get to be one of the world’s most famous luxury brands without producing a few pieces that become perennial favourites. In Cartier’s case, these three iconic items of jewellery feature motifs that are synonymous with the brand, giving them enduring appeal that has seen them grace the wrists of generations of devotees.

1. Cartier Panthère, est. 1914

Cartier Panthère bracelet. Photo: Handout

The first panther in Cartier’s iconography dates back to 1914, when it appeared on a paper invitation to a jewellery exhibition, and in diamond and onyx on a wristwatch. A three-dimensional was created in 1948 for Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor. Since then, the panther has become a beloved motif of the house, representing fierce femininity.

2. Cartier Love, est. 1969

One of the most iconic jewellery creations in the world, the Love bracelet debuted in 1969 and was designed by Italian-born American designer Aldo Cipullo. An eternal symbol of devotion, it can only be removed with an accompanying screwdriver.

3. Juste un Clou, est. 1971

Cartier’s Juste un Clou bracelet, appropriately enough, fashioned in the shape of a nail. Photo: Handout

Also designed by Cipullo, the Juste un Clou is – as the English translation of its name says – “just a nail”. The simple yet genius design debuted in 1971 and embodies the spirit of timelessness paired with ingenuity at the heart of the brand.