Centenary of an icon

Cartier’s latest additions to its leather goods collection celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Trinity ring

Given its clean lines and sleek silhouette, it is almost hard to believe Cartier’s Trinity ring is marking its 100th anniversary this year. This cult classic, composed of three simple interlocking rings crafted in white, rose, and yellow gold, remains one of the most celebrated works by the French Maison and stands as one of the most timeless and recognisable creations in the world of jewellery.

It is widely believed that Louis Cartier designed the Trinity ring at the request of the French artist, poet, novelist and filmmaker Jean Cocteau. According to Francesca Cartier Brickell, a descendant of the Cartier family and author of The Cartiers, one legend surrounding the Trinity ring involves Cocteau’s dream.

In this dream, he envisioned rings encircling the planet Saturn. Upon waking, Cocteau approached his friend, Louis Cartier, asking if he could translate this celestial vision into a tangible, personal object, such as jewellery.

In 1924, blending rose, white, and yellow gold into one jewellery piece was revolutionary. Cocteau famously stacked two Trinity rings on his pinkie, immortalising the look in numerous photographs and establishing the Trinity as one of Cartier’s most renowned jewellery creations, desired by both men and women.

In celebration of Trinity’s centenary, Cartier has introduced new additions to its line of leather goods that cleverly incorporate the jewellery icon in three rings in yellow gold, palladium and rose gold finishes.

The collection comprises shoulder bags, mini bags and card holders made from supple, grained calfskin leather. Cartier has taken a page from the DNA of the Trinity ring and stayed true to its sleek and timeless aesthetics, which will remain elegant and versatile in years to come, a testament to the longevity of well-crafted design.

The Trinity Leather Goods collection is available in Cartier boutiques at Ion Orchard, Ngee Ann City, Marina Bay Sands and Cartier.sg.

Cartier Trinity mini round bag in grained calfskin, $970 Cartier Trinity top handle bag in grained calfskin, $3,500 Cartier Trinity mini shoulder bag in grained calfskin, also available in three other colours, $2,240 Cartier Trinity vertical shoulder bag in grained calfskin, also available in two other colours, $2,590 Cartier Trinity Accordéon Wallet in grained calfskin, also available in three other colours, $740