WHAT? Cartier 

WHERE? Victoria & Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London SW7 2RL

WHEN? Now until 16th November 

WHY GO? To be dazzled. This gem of an exhibition reveals all you could ever wish to know about the most famous name in jewellery, Cartier.  From small beginnings to global superiority, this epic blockbuster dazzles from beginning to end. More is definitely more. There are 350 glorious exhibits on show to be precise.

From jaw dropping ceremonial necklaces for Maharajas to dazzling necklaces for aristocrats, majestic tiaras for Royalty or anyone else who could afford such exclusivity, the exhibition travels through the world of Cartier.

It opens with the brothers, Louis, Pierre and Jacques Cartier and charts how they grew the small family business through creative craftsmanship, clever marketing and links to society, into the prestigious name it is today.

There are innumerable treasures and the stories behind each and every piece are as intriguing as the jewellery is beautiful. 

There are gossipy snippets and tales of extravagance involving world famous names like Elizabeth Taylor with her stash of Cartier gifts from indulgent husbands and Grace Kelly with the diamond engagement ring she paraded in High Society before marrying her Prince.

Then there are the ornate jewelled clocks and watches; Cartier created the first modern wrist watch in 1904 and thereafter gave watches super luxe cred.  Even now, the Cartier Tank is a number one status symbol.

A final room of tiaras alone makes this an opulent experience with soft seating and sophisticated music to soak up those super luxe vibes and dream on… and on!

IN THE KNOW Allow half a day, and then another half to explore the glorious little gift shop. You won’t be tempted by a Cartier Tank, but you will be able to snap up little souvenirs with Cartier signatures like their ‘panther’ logo on cards, tote bags and even an embroidered patch to create your own exclusive statement!