Nearly 400 Cartier Jewels on Display at National Gallery of Victoria

The National Gallery of Victoria has opened one of the largest Cartier jewellery exhibitions of its kind, showcasing nearly 400 pieces in partnership with London's Victoria and Albert Museum. The collection includes iconic pieces worn by Hollywood stars Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly, as well as items belonging to Princess Margaret, Andy Warhol, and Rihanna. The exhibition features over 30 tiaras and jewels set with hundreds of carats of rubies, emeralds, and sapphires described as exceptional quality by curators. A notable local connection is provided by pieces worn by Australian opera singer Dame Nellie Melba in the early 20th century, many of which have never been publicly displayed before. The NGV describes the collection's value as "priceless" and notes that the jewels were transported with high-level security meeting global standards. Curators argue the pieces qualify as art due to their design, craftsmanship, and the historical narratives they reveal about 20th-century social and political worlds.