Our Favorite Rare and Collectible Cartier Rings
Discover the most collectible Cartier rings for your collection.
Brief History of Cartier
Cartier was founded in 1847 by Louis-Francois Cartier and opened its first boutique in 1859. With a roster of visionary designers such as Charles Jacqueau, Pierre Lemarch and and enigmatic creative director Jeanne Toussaint, Cartier’s designs articulated a wide range of influences into highly original and elegant jewels that defined their eras.
In 1993, Cartier was merged with other brands, creating the Vendome Luxury Group. The Vendome Luxuruy Group became Richemont and now owns 19 luxury brands including Van Cleef & Arpels and Buccellati. Cartier is one of the most popular luxury jewelry designer brands with over 5M google searches per month. In 2023, Sotheby's sold nearly $30 million in Cartier jewelry with prices ranging from $5,000 to over $2.8 million. "Signed jewels by the legendary maisons (including Cartier) continued to dazzle, as connoisseurs hunted particularly for iconic, vintage jewels that represented the best the great houses had to offer." Quig Bruning, SVP Head of Jewelry, Americas & EMEA.
Rare & Collectible Cartier Rings
Whether you are a seasoned collector or new admirer of Cartier rings, we have highlighted four rare and collectible Cartier ring styles. While some of these specific Cartier rings may be hard to source, these provide a foundation for Cartier rings that are rare and collectible. We chose these Cartier rings since they are timeless in their design, represent the most iconic motifs or reflect Cartier's heritage of quality and luxury. If you are looking to add rare and collectible Cartier rings to your collection, read on to learn more about four distinct styles to consider.
Cartier Panthère Ring
The Panthère de Cartier motif was first introduced in 1914 and remains one of the most iconic symbols synonymous with the luxury brand. Cartier's earliest connection to the panther was an advertisement in 1913 called Dame à la Panthère featuring an elegant model and a sleek black cat. According to some, Louis Cartier chose the panther in tribute to Jeanne Toussaint, who he called his ‘Petite Pantheré (she also famously wore a full-length coat made of panther fur). The first Cartier Panthère jewelry piece was crafted for the Duchess of Windsor, Wallace Simpson in 1948. The Cartier Pantheré brooch was gold and enamel set with a cabochon emerald. The success of the first Cartier Pantheré ring set off a chain reaction with the creation of Cartier Pantheré bracelets, drop earrings and pendants which became hugely desirable among European and American elite. Modern and vintage Cartier Pantheré rings are among the most popular and collectible Cartier rings.
Cartier Diamond Ring
Cartier's long association with royalty starting in 1902 when Kind Edward VII commissioned Cartier to create 27 tiaras remains strong today. Cartier was described as the "Jeweller of Kings and King of Jewellers" by King Edward VII. This association naturally led to Cartier being one of the top jewelers for diamond engagement rings by the royal and noble class and celebrities. Prince Rainier of Monaco famously gave Grace Kelly a Cartier diamond engagement ring in 1955. The impressive Cartier diamond ring featured a 10.47 carat emerald cut diamond set in platinum. Cartier diamond rings are set with the highest quality diamonds and few brands can compete with Cartier when it comes to the top of the bridal market.
Cartier Sapphire Ring and Cartier Colored Gemstone Rings
Cartier is also known for its exceptional colored gem stone rings. Sotheby's has sold extraordinary Cartier sapphire rings that have sold for over $1 million due to the quality and rarity of the sapphires. Cartier sapphire and colored gem stone rings are desired by collectors due to the craftsmanship of the designs and the quality for the stones. Increasingly brides are also looking for a unique solitaire that have a sapphire or other colored gem stone and Cartier is often the luxury brand of choice. Collectors are on the look out for vintage Cartier rings featuring colored gem stones since these are often one of kind custom made rings.
Cartier Bombé Ring
A Cartier bombé ring is another rare and collectible Cartier ring. The term bombé refers to the distinctive domed shape that is a recurring design for Cartier rings. Cartier bombé rings set with pave diamonds and gemstones require skilled artisans to create the smooth rounded final shape with a uniform sparkling surface. This bold silhouette is sought after by Cartier ring collectors for its unique shape that showcases design and craftsmanship of Cartier. A Cartier Lobi bombé ring, Circa 2003 sold for 40,640 CHF or 38% above its high estimate in 2024.
Buying and Selling Cartier Rings At Sotheby's
Sotheby's often has rare and collectible Cartier rings available at auction. Sotheby's also has a curated selection of Cartier rings available for immediate purchase. If you would like to view a Cartier ring, a salon specialist would be happy to assist. Sotheby's is also able to source Cartier rings from its global supplier network.
- Explore upcoming jewelry at auctions in New York, London, Switzerland, Paris, and Hong Kong.
- Speak to a Salon Associate in New York, Zurich or Hong Kong to schedule an appointment.
- Speak to a Jewelry Specialist about selling Cartier rings.
Trust our worldwide network of leading jewelry specialists from a globally renowned auction house with a 280-year history.
