Please note: Provident Jewelry is not an authorized dealer of Cartier Jewelry.

We are a trusted, top-rated destination for pre-owned Cartier jewelry and watches as well as a luxury jewelry buyer. If you would like to obtain a quick & accurate estimate for your Cartier jewelry or timepiece click above and upload photos and/or item details for a quick response. We offer options for selling, trading or consignment of your jewelry.

8 Common Cartier Questions

We receive frequent questions about Cartier jewelry and watches – from how to verify authenticity to the correct sizing of a Love bracelet. We’re answering 8 common Cartier questions here to help you learn a bit more about this beloved and iconic brand.

We’ve also included some of our pre-owned Cartier jewelry and watches for you to browse below!

Cartier History

Cartier has produced countless pieces of stunning merchandise over the years, from watches and rings to various decorative accessories. But many are unaware that the company was first established exclusively with watchmaking. There are many other fascinating facts about Cartier’s history that you may not know.

Cartier’s founder, Louis-François Cartier, was born in Paris in 1819. Louis first worked as an apprentice under the master watchmaker Adolphe Picard, in his store on Rue Montorgueil. In 1847, Cartier bought the store from Picard.

Cartier began adding jewelry pieces to the store’s inventory to expand his available collection beyond that of just watches. He acquired the finest jewels he could find and afford, within France and beyond.

One of Cartier’s distinct advantages was Louis’ insistence on perfection. If he didn’t consider a piece to be up to the impeccable Cartier standard, it was never sold or seen! Although most of the established jewelers of that time had strict quality standards, never before had such stringent adherence to flawless craftsmanship been seen. This reputation for superb quality and consistency helped established Cartier’s position amongst the most sought-after luxury brands worldwide.

Although Patek Phillippe is credited with producing the very first men’s wristwatch, it was Cartier who popularized the use of a man’s wristwatch over a pocket watch. The Cartier Santos watch was born when Cartier befriended the Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. Santos expressed the difficulty of piloting with a pocket watch. This need resulted in the creation of one of the world’s first modern wristwatches in 1904. Now known as the Santos de Cartier, the watch was also distinguished by the industrial design, exposed screws, and leather mounting.

Over the decades, Cartier produced some of the most stunning pieces the world has ever seen. In addition to the infamous tutti frutti necklaces and bracelets, Cartier has introduced many other wildly popular and iconic pieces. Some notable items include the Cartier Love Collection, the Cartier Ballon Bleu, the Cartier Pasha, the Cartier Roadster, Cartier Santos, and the Cartier Tank watch.

Cartier remained family-owned, until 1964 when the decision was made to sell each branch separately. In 1972, a consortium led by WW2 French Resistance hero, Robert Hocq, bought back all the various branches of Cartier and unified it once again. Although no longer family-owned the company remains a single entity.

Today Cartier maintains a headquarters in Paris and is currently an owned subsidiary of the Swiss Richemont Group. As of 2021 Cartier operates more than 200 stores in 125 countries!

Who Sells Cartier Jewelry?

New Cartier jewelry and watches can be purchased through one of Cartier’s numerous boutiques worldwide as well as on their website. At our Provident Jewelry location in Naples we are an authorized retailer for new Cartier watches. We also have an amazing selection of pre-owned Cartier jewelry and watches in our inventory, with new items coming in frequently.

You may visit any one of our 7 locations or contact us online to connect with a member of our team so that we may assist you in finding any specific Cartier item.

Through a quick Google search, you will find that there are numerous online retailers who offer pre-owned Cartier. We always recommend that you do your homework and be sure that you are investing in pre-owned luxury from a reputable and highly-rated jeweler who sells authentic brand name jewelry and watches, and will be able to prove authenticity. It is also a great idea to examine and try on your items in person prior to purchase. Especially if it is a brand or item you have never previously worn or tried on in person.

Does Cartier Buy Back Jewelry?

If purchased directly from Cartier, new and unused jewelry or watches may be returned or exchanged within 30 days in accordance with their conditions of sale. You would not have the option of trading in any item towards the purchase of something new. At Provident Jewelry we will purchase authentic designer used watches and jewelry for cash, trade or consignment.

There are many internet-based jewelry buyers out there. They may provide a quick and easy means of selling your jewelry; however, it’s unlikely that you’ll yield the highest possible payout for your items or receive the white-glove service and attention that you would at one of our South Florida showrooms.

Not only will we buy your Cartier jewelry, our graduate gemologists and jewelry experts will take the time to educate you and help you to understand the true value of your items as well as provide you with options to sell, consign, trade, or perhaps obtain a professional appraisal. Whichever option you choose you are sure to enjoy the extensive knowledge and professionalism of our team.

If you aren’t located in South Florida, we are still able to assist you. We are available for FaceTime and virtual consultations and can make necessary arrangements to obtain the valuables you wish to sell.

  1. The Cartier Love Collection: Inspired by the medieval chastity belt and once sold only to couples, the original two-piece Love bracelet was introduced in 1970. The beloved bracelet contains visible screws that lock and unlock with a special matching screwdriver included with purchase. The Love collection now includes not only bracelets but also rings, necklaces, earrings, and engagement rings.
  2. The Cartier Ballon Bleu Watch: Created in 2007 with a distinctive roundness and a domed sapphire crystal winding crown that is integrated into the case. The recognizable design features a sapphire cabochon and sword-shaped hands.
  3. The Cartier Pasha Watch: Designed in 1985 and recognized for its round face, this model has a waterproof case and a unique chained crown. The watch comes with steel, fold, or leather straps.
  4. The Cartier Roadster Watch: Heavily influenced by luxury roadsters, this watch made its debut in 2001 and is no longer in production. The Roadster features a modern approach to the barrel-shaped case with an oversized date magnification. The model was offered in a variety of metal, size, dial, and bracelet configurations, as well as a selection of complications.
  5. The Cartier Santos Watch: Cartier’s first wristwatch was named after aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to be able to tell time while piloting an airplane.
  6. The Cartier Tank Watch: The Tank watch shape is said to be inspired by combat vehicle viewed from above. All variations feature case attachments in alignment with the strap.

How to authenticate Cartier jewelry?

Authenticating your watch or jewelry may be challenging on your own. Cartier serial numbers are randomly assigned, and the format has changed over the years. Cartier also does not imprint model names on most of their watch dials or jewelry. But there are many telltale signs of an authentic piece. Here are a just few to look for!

And if you’re still unsure you can always contact us or visit one of our locations for some expert advice.

Serial Numbers

Serial numbers may consist of the following:

  • 5 digits and 1 letter (12345 A)
  • 2 letters 4 digits (example AA 1234)
  • 3 letters and 3 digits (example ABC 999)

Examples of serial numbers on Cartier watches and Cartier jewelry.

Stamping & Engraving

  • Cartier jewelry is stamped with even spacing, correct spelling, and with the distinct fonts and scripts. The stamping can be found on the back of rings, bracelets, necklace clasps and earring posts. See examples above.
  • Inspect the quality of the product’s engraving. Engraving found on the caseback or clasp should be professional, crisp, clear and neatly laid out.
  • Most modern Cartier jewelry will be stamped with the Cartier logo, the metal type and a serial number.
  • Cartier’s logo is always stamped into the jewelry with their signature script, any other fonts or misspellings would be an obvious indication of a replica.
  • Bracelets and rings will be stamped with sizes. Cartier sizes their rings in millimeters.
  • Engagement rings will include their ring size, metal type, carat weight, serial number and logo.

Metal Types

  • Cartier timepieces are usually crafted with steel, 18k gold and steel, and exclusively 18k gold, as well as platinum for select models.
  • Jewelry and watches should be free of any discolorations or chips in the metal.
  • Your watch should feel substantial, not constructed in a light and pliable metal or gold tone plating.

Packaging

  • Most modern Cartier boxes have a gold tone push release button on the front of the bottom portion of the box. See examples.
  • Cartier jewelry boxes do not have their logo printed on the top of the outside of the box, instead their logo is printed in gold foil on the inside of the upper lid.
  • Cartier outer presentation boxes, certificates and inserts will all feature the recognizable red color with the distinct Cartier gold pattern. See examples.
  • The interior of Cartier boxes will feature either a black felt or a white satin fabric.
  • All Cartier products will be sold with the signature red bags and red gift boxes.

The only way to verify a piece of Cartier jewelry with 100% certainty is to seek the advice of a professional jeweler. A reputable and experienced jeweler will know exactly how to identify authentic Cartier items and will only ever buy and sell genuine pieces from a luxury brand.

With over 27 years of experience buying and selling luxury jewelry and watches Provident Jewelry is most certainly well-qualified to determine the authenticity of your Cartier items.

For expert advice and peace of mind when selling or adding to your Cartier collection, schedule a time to speak with someone from our professional team.

Can you look up a Cartier serial number?

The serial number of a Cartier watch is usually engraved on the case back. You may also locate the serial number on the item’s warranty card. As for jewelry it will vary by age and item. Typically, they would be found on the inside of a ring or bracelet, or somewhere on the clasp. (See examples)

Note that the serial number assigned to an item is not a style number, but a number that is unique to each individual piece. There are several different serial number formats including the following:

5 digits and one letter (12345 A), 2 letters and 4 digits (AA 1234), 3 letters and 3 digits (ABC 123)

The absolute best way to confirm your jewelry or watch authenticity is to have a professional jeweler or gemologist evaluate your piece.

What does “must de Cartier” mean?

The phrase Must de Cartier roughly translates to “Cartier, it’s a Must”. In 1972, Robert Hocq and a group of investors bought Cartier Paris. Robert Hocq coined the phrase “Les Must de Cartier” (a must meaning something one simply must have).

What sizes does the love bracelet come in?

Cartier sizes their bracelets in centimeters, from sizes 15cm to 21cm. Any sizes required which fall outside of this range could be ordered from Cartier. Both the small and the regular Love Bracelet come in the following 7 different sizes: 15 cm, 16 cm, 17 cm, 18 cm, 19 cm, 20 cm, 21 cm. The same sizes apply to any variation of the Love bracelet.

How much is my Cartier watch worth?

Some Cartier jewelry has been rumored to sell for 74% of the original price! The ever popular Juste un Clou and Love bracelets and known to hold their value particularly well. Your item’s rarity, condition and the market demand will certainly influence the potential resale value. The only way to know for certain what your Cartier is worth is to have it evaluated by a professional jeweler.

When we evaluate any luxury items for value or authenticity there are a few things that are extremely helpful:

  • Detailed photo documentation (if the evaluation is virtual)
  • A detailed and accurate description of the item (metal type, model name, gemstones, etc.)
  • Date or estimated date of purchase
  • Identify if the item is custom-made or customized in any way after purchase
  • A certificate of authenticity, a warranty, or any original receipts, paperwork, tags, inserts, or packaging.
  • Dates and sources of service
  • Any noted damages that occurred to the piece

You may contact us today to discuss your Cartier watch or jewelry’s value. You are also welcomed to visit any of our locations to obtain an evaluation or a professional appraisal.

Start Your Own Cartier Collection

It is indisputable that Cartier has designed some of finest jewelry in history. And just like royalty you can acquire a piece of perfection and start your very own Cartier collection! Here are a few examples of our current pre-owned Cartier jewelry and Cartier Watches. Contact us to purchase any of these items or for assistance locating something specific you may not find on the site. Our inventory changes frequently.

Stunning Cartier love cuff bracelet in 18k rose gold, size 16.

Cartier white gold Panthere ring with diamonds, emeralds & onyx.

Mid-size Ballon Bleu with mother of pearl dial, stainless steel & rose gold bracelet.

Cartier 18k yellow gold trinity ring with 1.70 carats in diamonds.

Cartier Calibre with calendar aperture, brown leather strap & 18kt rose gold.

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