Cartier at the V&A | Emily Kidson

Please note I am away from my studio exhibiting at Goldsmiths' Fair. Orders will be made and despatched from Wednesday 30 September. Thank you.

Please note I am away from my studio exhibiting at Goldsmiths' Fair. Orders will be made and despatched from Wednesday 30 September. Thank you.

by Emily Kidson
May 18, 2025

At 8.30am on a very sunny weekday morning I went to the V&A for a viewing of the Cartier exhibition. It was amazing to see - to be honest I'm not hugely interested in precious stones but seeing so many, the craftsmanship, the designs, the history, was really fascinating. It was also quite mind boggling trying to imagine the wealth that some people have to be able to commission work like this! I took a few photos but i'd recommend a visit.

An external shot of the V&A in the morning sun

Black and white exhibition room with display around the edge of the room

I enjoyed the exhibition design and the mounts the items were displayed on

a bow-like precious stone encrusted brooch

Intricate details

The back of a brooch

It was great to be able to see the back of some pieces. Quite a thick brooch pin on this one!

a large necklace with pink and white stones

There was a lot of colour to see which I love.

Bird like brooches with spread wings. colourful and with hand carved bodies

Carved colour

brooch with large round brown stone, surrounded by white diamonds

A striking brooch and the reflections in the cabinet were beautiful

necklace with black and white enamel and pink cabochons

Loved the black and white on this necklace

snake

A snake which had an incredible amount of movement

drawings showing the design process for one floral brooch

Drawings showing the design process for a floral brooch

tiaras displayed in cylindrical cabinets you can walk 360 degrees around

Tiaras. There were also watches and all sorts of objects as well as jewellery.