Melbourne’s winter cultural calendar reaches a sparkling new highlight today as CARTIER opens at National Gallery of Victoria International, bringing the largest exhibition ever staged in Australia dedicated to the iconic jewellery house.
As part of the 2026 Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® program, the exclusive exhibition features nearly 400 extraordinary jewels, timepieces and precious objects alongside rare archival materials including original design drawings, sketchbooks and photographs.
Arriving direct from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, the expanded Melbourne presentation showcases almost 300 works never before seen in Australia, exploring Cartier’s extraordinary legacy of craftsmanship, creativity and technical innovation.
The exhibition traces the transformation of Cartier from a family jewellery business into one of the world’s most influential luxury houses, following the work of brothers Louis, Pierre and Jacques Cartier as they established an international presence across Paris, London and New York.
Visitors can step into a world of glamour and artistry through jewels once owned and worn by some of the world’s most famous figures including Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly, Rihanna, Princess Margaret and Dame Nellie Melba.
Among the many highlights is a spectacular display of more than 30 tiaras, including 24 presented together in the exhibition’s final gallery. The collection features Cartier’s celebrated Scroll tiara, worn by Lady Clementine Churchill at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and later by Rihanna.
Other standout pieces include Elizabeth Taylor’s ruby necklace, Grace Kelly’s treasured jewels, the Duchess of Windsor’s famous Panther sapphire brooch and an extraordinary selection of Cartier’s iconic Tutti Frutti creations.
The exhibition also explores Cartier’s innovations in watchmaking, featuring famous designs, Mystery Clocks and exceptional pieces showcasing rare gemstones including Australian black opals.
CARTIER is now open at NGV International until 4 October 2026.
Plan your visit and book tickets at NGV.MELBOURNE
