History of the Clash de Cartier
Cartier unveiled Clash de Cartier in 2019 in Paris, with a small exhibition at the newly renovated boutique on Place Vendôme showing how the design was developed. The collection draws on the clou carré, the square stud that Cartier has used since the 1920s on watches, accessories and jewellery, and on the picot studs found in pieces the house made in the early twentieth century. Clash brings these elements together with rows of beads and pyramid studs set on a ribbed mesh, so that bracelets, rings and earrings are articulated and shift slightly as they move. Clash is made in 18KT rose, yellow and white gold, with diamond-set versions and models with coloured stones such as onyx and carnelian. Bracelets and rings are made in different widths, including small and medium models. The collection has since grown into necklaces, earrings and high jewellery pieces, including a necklace with more than 8,000 diamonds and more than 200 onyx clous carrés.
Key references
| Clash de Cartier bracelet, small model | 18KT rose, yellow or white gold. The narrower articulated band of studs and clous carrés. |
|---|---|
| Clash de Cartier bracelet, medium model | 18KT gold. A wider version of the bracelet with larger studs. |
| Clash de Cartier ring | 18KT gold, in small and medium widths. The articulated stud band at ring size. |
| Clash de Cartier with diamonds | 18KT gold with brilliant-cut diamonds set into the studs or along the band. |
| Clash de Cartier with onyx or carnelian | 18KT gold with coloured stone beads or clous carrés. |
| Clash de Cartier earrings and necklace | 18KT gold. Single and paired stud motifs as hoops, drops and pendants. |
How to spot a fake
- Look for the Cartier signature, the 750 or Au750 gold mark, the size and a serial number on the inside of the band. Engraving should be crisp and evenly spaced.
- Study the studs and clous carrés. On a genuine piece the pyramids are sharp and identical, and the square clous sit evenly along the band.
- Flex the piece gently. Clash is articulated and should move smoothly without loose or rattling elements.
- Check the clasp on bracelets. It should close firmly and sit flush with the band.
- Weigh the piece. Clash is solid 18KT gold, and a light piece needs further testing.
- Box and certificate must match the serial number on the piece. The jewel itself is always checked first.
How we check a sourced piece
Before we recommend a piece we test the metal, read every hallmark and maker's mark under magnification, and check the serial number and its engraving against the model and period it should belong to. You receive a written condition report with detailed photographs and video, so you see the piece exactly as it is before you commit to anything. For Clash pieces we also check every stud for wear and confirm the articulation moves freely. Mozeris Fine Antiques is an independent dealer and is not affiliated with Cartier.