Singapore Tatler Jewels & Time
AN ECLECTIC APPROACH
Cartier’s latest high jewellery resonates with beauty
Cartier's high jewellery range resonates with beauty
Looking at the new Résonances de Cartier collection, it’s hard to pinpoint a specific theme. It’s unlike the Panthère de Cartier—the feline icon is prominent throughout—or the Cactus de Cartier, where the thorny plant serves as the key inspiration. If anything, the one common thread that courses through the entire range is the extraordinary stones used in the creations.
As with any major haute joallierie collection, there are diamonds, emeralds and sapphires of various grades and sizes. But what truly stood out are the exotic gemstones used. Think smoky quartz, goldflecked lapis lazuli and leaf-green beryls— all combining to accentuate the central stone in the design.
Because of the wide variety of gemstones chosen, Cartier is able to tap on its archives and experience in jewellery-making to create the collection. Which is why one can see vestiges of the highly popular Tutti Fruitti style in some pieces and hints of Art Deco in the others.
While there are simple rings and bracelets—all set with brilliant combinations of top-drawer quality stones—there are some more complicated pieces that clearly highlight Cartier’s creative prowess.
Take the Rhythmic necklace for instance. It’s crafted out of platinum and heavily set with diamonds of different cuts and sizes. But the French marque adds modularity to the design: The centrepiece of the necklace can be detached to become a brooch. This allows ladies to transit from day to night, work to eveningwear in a simple yet stunning manner. Such versatility is appreciated by women today.
The 100-odd-piece collection’s press statement states: “A breath of air washes over the stones. Ablaze, they inhale and exhale, their rhythm steady. A beating heart comes to life, stark shapes pounding, resonating, unleashing their forms.” It sounds slightly exaggerated. We can’t, however, help but agree.