Cartier jewels worn by American fashion editor and heiress to the Singer sewing machine fortune Daisy Fellowes have been spotlighted in a new exhibition at the Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum.
The collection includes royal tiaras, Maharajah necklaces and Tyler, The Creator’s dazzling watch alongside a section celebrating a diamond tiara and choker worn by Rihanna – plus much more.
But it’s the daring jewels worn by the 20th century icon, who was once described by Karl Lagerfeld as the “most stylish and wicked woman in fashion”, that drew attention when the exhibition opened for previews last week in London ahead of its formal opening on April 12.
On display is a striking Cartier necklace once owned by Fellowes, who was a loyal Cartier client and a big fan of Indian-inspired jewellery. In 1936, she asked Cartier in Paris to create this colourful necklace using gems from her personal collection.
The necklace, known as the Collier Hindou or Hindu Necklace, was originally strung on a long Indian-style cord. It features a vivid mix of sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and diamonds, set in platinum and white gold. Its bright, joyful colours and mix of shapes reflect both Indian jewellery traditions and Cartier’s expert craftsmanship. Read here how the Collier Hindou influenced Cartier’s Le Chœur des Pierres high jewellery collection and its show-stopping Tutti Kanya necklace.
After Fellowes passed away, her daughter, Emmeline de Castéja, had the piece redesigned in 1963, giving it a more modern look while keeping the original spirit alive.
Today, the necklace is part of the Cartier Collection. Its presence at the V&A highlights not only Fellowes’ love for bold, unique jewellery but also the creative bond she shared with Cartier, a partnership that helped bring this extraordinary piece to life.
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