Behind the Seams: Cartier's Luminescent Legacy

Just in time for the holidays, Cartier celebrates 100 years in America with an extensively sparkly exhibit. San Francisco's Legion of Honor is hosting an exclusive exhibit through April 18. The collection houses more than 200 objects, starting with the Belle Époque through to the 1960s and '70s; jewelry of the gilded age and art-deco period surround platinum-set diamond tiaras, mystery clocks, and exotic creatures. The real stunners are the royal pieces worn by high society and Hollywood legends; an exotic flamingo brooch made for the Duchess of Windsor, diamond bangles worn by screen legend Gloria Swanson, and — my favorite — Princess Grace of Monaco's Cartier engagement jewelry (pictured). There's no denying Cartier's pukka power. Here's to another 100 years of diamonds, rubies, and emeralds.