Cartier has introduced the second chapter of its Nature Sauvage high jewellery collection, expanding its artistic exploration of the animal kingdom. The launch took place in Shanghai in November, following the debut of the collection’s first chapter in Vienna earlier in May. The event showcased an array of meticulously crafted jewellery pieces that blend nature’s raw beauty with Cartier’s renowned elegance and craftsmanship.
Held at Bund City Hall Plaza in central Shanghai, the unveiling transformed the venue into a lush paradise. The collection featured 36 high jewellery pieces and two high jewellery objects, each presenting animals intricately concealed within natural landscapes. The display was divided into three themed sections: Twirl with the Wind, Treasures of Land, and Shapes of Water. Each section recreated distinct natural environments, from a bamboo forest to the colorful Rainbow Mountains and the icy beauty of glaciers.
While the panther remains Cartier’s most iconic motif, the Nature Sauvage collection extends beyond this signature design. Among the standout pieces is the Vamana necklace, which features a stylized elephant crafted with geometric shapes and delicate openwork details. Cartier has incorporated elephants into its designs since the early 20th century, though previous interpretations were more naturalistic.
Another striking creation is the Wani necklace, which depicts a crocodile with emerald and diamond scales. Cartier’s artisans dedicated hundreds of hours to shaping and fitting each scale, ensuring a seamless and lifelike texture. The necklace features three vivid green pear-shaped cabochon-cut emeralds from Zambia, totaling 27.83 carats, suspended from the reptile’s mouth and front paw as if under its protection.
The collection also introduces the Paradisier ring, inspired by the bird of paradise. Crafted in white gold and encrusted with diamonds, the ring captures the bird perched gently on the wearer’s finger. Yellow diamond eyes add a sense of realism, while a 23.69-carat cushion-shaped rubellite with a rich reddish-purple hue serves as the centerpiece. Complementing this piece is a pair of earrings adorned with matching rubellites totaling 34.13 carats.
Despite the diversity of creatures in the collection, the panther remains the highlight. The Panthère Chatoyante necklace features a panther’s head emerging from a setting of rubellites and chrysoprases, totaling over 90 and 195 carats, respectively. Its piercing emerald eyes enhance the dramatic effect.
Cartier further showcases its mastery in capturing feline grace with the White Guagamal ring. This four-finger ring features a tiger sculpture stretching across the hand, designed for both visual impact and wearability. The tiger’s tail wraps elegantly around a finger, while onyx accents highlight its form, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. Sapphire eyes complete the lifelike effect, making this piece a testament to Cartier’s technical and artistic excellence.
The Nature Sauvage collection reaffirms Cartier’s reputation for transforming precious metals and gemstones into wearable works of art. While the panther remains its most famous emblem, the collection celebrates a broader bestiary, bringing a diverse range of animals to life through innovative design and masterful craftsmanship.
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