Cartier at the V&A: A Jewelry Exhibit That Made Me Rethink My Treasures
Why wait to wear what’s already special to you?
María Felix, a Mexican film star, commissioned this snake necklace from Cartier Paris in 1968. It has 2,473 diamonds and has the colors of the Mexican flag.
When I was in London last month, one of the things on my list was to visit the Cartier: The Exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum. It tells the story of the brand through 350 stunning pieces: crowns worn by royalty, iconic watches, intricate clocks, and of course, spectacular jewelry.
Princess Marie Louise, granddaughter of Queen Victoria, wore this piece to the coronation of King George VI in 1937 and Queen Elizabeth II in 1953
Princess Margaret’s brooch
In recent years, we’ve heard a lot of conversation around luxury: how it’s become overpriced, overhyped, or not quite what it used to be. But real luxury is about more than logos and trends. It’s about craftsmanship. History. Meaning. It's about dreaming and creating something that lasts a lifetime. Or longer. Especially when it comes to jewelry.
The exhibition made me reflect on my own small collection of precious jewelry. I don’t have many pieces, but I do have a few very special ones. A gold bracelet and a ring I received as a child - yes, they still fit! - and my grandmother’s 50th anniversary wedding band, a beautiful vintage piece that’s been tucked away for years. Kept safe. But why?
After visiting the exhibit, I decided: I’m going to start wearing all of them. There’s no reason not to enjoy something that carries so much personal meaning. That’s what gives it value.
So what about you?
Do you have a piece of jewelry passed down through your family that you keep stored away? Maybe it’s time to bring it out, wear it, and let it be part of your life again.
Let me know if this inspired you. I’d love to hear your story.
Hi, I’m Marcia Crivorot, a Personal Stylist based in NY. Once a month, I send newsletters featuring style tips, recommended brands, and a shopping guide. Unlock previous editions of my newsletters and receive my emails firsthand by subscribing.
Disclosure: Remember that I link products and companies based on their quality, my personal opinion, my experience, and my professional expertise. Some of the links in my posts are affiliate links, and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a small commission. The decision is yours, and whether or not you buy something is entirely up to you.