The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is proud to announce its first major exhibition in almost 30 years dedicated to Cartier's exquisite jewels and watches.

Opening in April 2025, the showcase will explore how the Maison became a global luxury design and craftsmanship leader.

This landmark exhibition will feature over 350 objects, charting Cartier’s rise from a family-owned Parisian jeweller to an internationally celebrated brand. Founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, the Maison gained worldwide recognition under the leadership of his grandsons, Louis, Pierre, and Jacques, who expanded the business to London, New York, and beyond in the early 20th century.

Renowned as “the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers,” Cartier became a favourite among royalty, aristocrats, and later, stars of stage and screen.

Visitors will have the chance to admire an extraordinary collection of treasures, including historic gemstones, iconic timepieces, and rare archival materials from the V&A and Cartier collections.

The exhibition will also feature loans from His Majesty The King’s Royal Collection, as well as pieces from leading UK and international museums and private collections.

Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan, the exhibition’s curators, said: “Cartier is one of the most revered names in jewellery and watchmaking. This exhibition will explore how Louis, Pierre, and Jacques Cartier, alongside their father Alfred, combined innovative design, exceptional craftsmanship, and global ambition to transform a family business into a worldwide icon.

With its world-class collection of jewellery, the V&A is the perfect setting to celebrate Cartier’s enduring legacy and its ability to remain at the forefront of culture and creativity for over a century.

We are delighted to share some of Cartier’s most iconic pieces with visitors, as well as previously unseen objects and archival materials that shed new light on the Maison’s remarkable story.”

The exhibition will be organised into three key sections, examining Cartier’s creative vision and distinctive style, its technical expertise and craftsmanship, and its innovative approach to branding and maintaining relevance in a changing world. A special focus will be placed on the history of Cartier London, culminating in a dazzling display of tiaras.