CARTIER: Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® 2026 at the National Gallery of Victoria belongs firmly in the latter.

Exclusive to Melbourne, this Australian-exclusive presentation brings together nearly 400 extraordinary jewels, timepieces and precious objects, alongside original design drawings, sketchbooks and archival photographs that reveal the creative journey behind one of the world’s most celebrated jewellery houses. Created by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, in partnership with the National Gallery of Victoria and in collaboration with Cartier, the exhibition explores the Maison’s remarkable evolution through more than 125 years of exceptional creations.

Walking through its galleries feels less like visiting an exhibition and more like stepping inside the history of one of the world’s greatest jewellery houses. Thoughtfully curated and beautifully presented, every room reveals another chapter in Cartier’s remarkable story, reminding visitors why the Maison continues to define the language of high jewellery.

Founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, the Maison has spent nearly two centuries shaping jewellery history through exceptional craftsmanship, technical innovation and an unrivalled appreciation for extraordinary gemstones. This exhibition captures that legacy beautifully.

A Grand Welcome

The journey begins with a magnificent tiara welcoming visitors into the world of Cartier. It is an elegant introduction to what lies ahead, immediately setting the tone for an exhibition filled with history, craftsmanship and remarkable gemstones.

The Early Years

Among the earliest masterpieces is the exquisite Lily stomacher brooch from 1906 along with stomacher brooch 1913, showcasing the refined elegance that defined Cartier’s early twentieth-century creations.

Soon after comes the celebrated Berenice Tiara, completed in 1925 and centred on an extraordinary 141-carat Mughal emerald. It is a remarkable example of Cartier’s ability to transform historically significant gemstones into timeless works of art.

Cartier’s Golden Age

The 1930s are particularly well represented throughout the exhibition, reflecting one of the most creative periods in Cartier’s history.

One of the highlights is the spectacular 143-carat carved emerald necklace created in 1932 for Beatrice Mills, perfectly demonstrating the Maison’s fascination with exceptional gemstones.

Nearby, visitors encounter the celebrated jade necklace commissioned for Barbara Hutton, alongside the magnificent 148-carat diamond necklace created in 1934 for a member of the Sassoon family.

Then comes one of Cartier’s most recognisable design languages: Tutti Frutti.

Created in 1936 for the legendary Daisy Fellowes, the necklace is a masterpiece of color and imagination. Incorporating gemstones from her own Tutti Frutti bracelet, it combines more than 240 carats of sapphires with carved emeralds, rubies and diamonds. In 1963 her daughter Comtesse de Casteja remodelled the necklace with Cartier.

Legendary Clients, Legendary Jewels

As the exhibition progresses, so do the extraordinary stories behind Cartier’s most celebrated commissions.

Elizabeth Taylor’s iconic ruby and diamond necklace from 1957 is among the unforgettable highlights.

For me, however, the undeniable star of the exhibition was the extraordinary serpent necklace created in 1968 for María Félix.

Set with 178 carats of diamonds, the articulated snake is one of Cartier’s most iconic creations, embodying both technical mastery and fearless creativity.

Nearby, another legendary commission for the Mexican actress commands equal attention: her famous crocodile necklace, completed in 1975 and set with 66 carats of emeralds and 60 carats of fancy yellow diamonds. These extraordinary pieces perfectly capture the unique relationship between Cartier and its most visionary clients.

The exhibition also presents faithful recreations of two of Cartier’s most celebrated commissions: the legendary Patiala Necklace and the magnificent Toussaint Necklace, allowing visitors to appreciate two creations that have become part of jewellery history.

A Fitting Finale

The exhibition concludes with what is undoubtedly one of its most breathtaking galleries: a room dedicated entirely to Cartier tiaras.

Although spanning more than a century of design, seeing these creations brought together in one space is a fitting finale to the exhibition.

Among my personal favourites is the radiant Sun Tiara, created in 1907, alongside one of Cartier’s most recent masterpieces, the emerald cabochon tiara completed in 2017 and centred on an extraordinary 140-carat emerald.

Standing before these creations, it becomes clear that Cartier’s approach to jewellery has always been about far more than precious materials. It is about imagination, craftsmanship and creating objects that transcend generations.

Beyond the individual jewels, what makes CARTIER: Melbourne Winter Masterpieces® 2026 so memorable is the way it tells Cartier’s story through its creations. These are not simply beautiful objects displayed behind glass. They are witnesses to history, symbols of extraordinary craftsmanship and expressions of the remarkable relationships between Cartier and some of the world’s most influential collectors.

Whether you are captivated by exceptional gemstones, fascinated by jewellery history or simply appreciate beautiful craftsmanship, this is an exhibition that deserves to be experienced.

This is not simply an exhibition of jewellery.

It is an exhibition of excellence.

One of the hallmarks of The Diamond Guild Australia is its steadfast commitment to using only natural diamonds. The guild firmly believes that the beauty and authenticity of natural diamonds cannot be replicated. Their unwavering stance against synthetic diamonds reinforces their dedication to preserving the allure of nature’s creations. This ensures that consumers can trust DGA members to provide them with the highest quality and most genuine gemstones, allowing them to cherish their jewellery for generations to come.

On the topic of natural diamonds, J Farren-Price a DGA member emphasised  that they do not support the sale of lab grown diamonds to our high-end customer base. We have seen how their value keeps falling and do not believe we are doing our clients a favour by promoting them. For sure there is a market and client for lab grown, it is just not a sector we focus on.

Membership in The Diamond Guild Australia is an exclusive privilege, and the selection process is nothing short of meticulous. Potential members are evaluated not only on their technical expertise but also on their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, use of only natural diamonds as well as their contribution to the industry. The guild’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards ensures that its members are a select group of reputable jewellers who uphold the legacy of Australian jewelry craftsmanship.

Berj Ohannessian confirms that being a member of the Guild has helped enhance customer confidence even further in their brand, BERJANI!

 

J Farren-Price second that and mentions Members of the guild have a reputation for integrity and have set a benchmark for quality and ethics in the sale of diamonds. J Farren- Price have and always will, stand by these values and our loyal clientele who have supported us for decades is a testament to how we are perceived in this competitive local market. Through our exceptional attention to detail and unwavering commitment to providing quality jewellery to last a lifetime, this is the reputation that we have built over 80 years as a family-owned business.

The guild boasts a stellar roster of current members, each representing the pinnacle of jewelry craftsmanship in Australia. These members are the driving force behind the guild’s mission to elevate the Australian jewelry industry on the global stage. Their commitment to excellence is evident in the exquisite pieces they create. Here is a complete list of Diamond Guild Australia:

BERJANI | BRETT’S JEWELLERS | CALLEIJA | CREATIONS JEWELLERS | HOGANS FAMILY JEWELLERS | HOLDWOTH BROS JEWELLERS | J FARREN -PRICE | JAMES THREDGOLD JEWELLER | JEFF EINSTEIN | LINNEYS | MONDIAL PINK DIAMOND ATELIER | MUSSON JEWELLERS| MATTHEW ELY | PERCY MARKS | ROHAN JEWELLERS | STEPHEN DIBB JEWELLERY | TREWARNE FINE JEWELLERY |

Celebrating Excellence: Jewelry Awards

One of the most anticipated events in the world of Australian jewelry is the biannual Jewelry Awards hosted by The Diamond Guild Australia. These awards celebrate the creativity, innovation, and technical skill of jewellers who create stunning pieces using natural diamonds. Winning a Diamond Guild award is a mark of distinction and a testament to an artisan’s dedication to their craft. The DGA’s jewellery awards not only celebrate the talent within the Australian jewellery industry but also serve as a platform to promote the beauty and value of natural diamonds. By exclusively recognizing pieces made with natural diamonds, the DGA reinforces the importance of these precious gemstones and encourages consumers to appreciate their unique qualities. The last Jewellery Award was held in 2018 and after five years of hiatus due to COVID-19 finally the most anticipated Jewellery Awards returned in 2023.

Jeff Einstein was hoping to see a new refreshing style of designs in this year’s DGA awards, as emerging and existing talent possibly didn’t have as many opportunities to enter competitions, and over the past few years have been able to explore new designs and techniques.

 

Olivar Musson also adds that the excitement surrounding these awards is palpable. Designers all over Australia have been preparing to unleash their creativity in the most prestigious diamond design awards in Australia. I know at Musson, we have been developing concepts for years that we are ready to present in these awards with the goal of winning the Supreme Award for a third time.

The DGA’s jewellery awards are renowned for their rigorous judging process, ensuring that only the most deserving pieces are recognized and celebrated. A panel of esteemed industry experts, including renowned jewellers, gemologists, and designers, carefully evaluate each submission based on criteria such as design, craftsmanship, use of materials, and overall aesthetic appeal. This ensures that the awards maintain a high standard of excellence and provide a platform for exceptional talent to shine. For 2023 Jewellery Awards I was honoured to be part of the judging panel along with Karlie Ungar Creative Director of CARLA ZAMPATTI, Dr Brandon Gien CEO of GOOD DESIGN AUSTRALIA and Lester Brand Managing Director of LESTER BRAND JEWELLERY.

The award ceremony was held on October 24th at The Langham Gold Coast, an invigorating and glamorous evening that brought together industry leaders to celebrate their craft and most exceptional creations.  The winners of each category were announced, and their exceptional pieces were showcased, allowing attendees to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship up close.

Here are the categories including finalists and winners:

“WINNER OF EVERYDAY DIAMONDS CATEGORY”

TROIS by Robert Musson of Musson Jewellers

-FINALIST OF EVERYDAY DIAMOND CATEGORY-

GLISTENING LAGOON by Natalie Alegria of Creations Jewellers Canberra

“WINNER OF DIAMONDS FOR MEN CATEGORY”

VELOCITA by Chantelle Green & Andrew Want of Calleija

-FINALIST OF DIAMONDS FOR MEN CATEGORY-

DIAMOND METROPOLIS by Cassandra Nitschke of Bell And Brunt Jewellers

“WINNER OF RED CARPET CATEGORY”

BLOOM by Robert Musson of Musson Jewellers

Olivar Musson, Creative Director of Musson Jewellers explains on the creative process of designing a piece: I believe a winning design must be striking and challenging on first impression. I achieve this by striving for innovation in setting. Creating a new technique to secure the diamond to enhance its brilliance and shape is my starting point. I then sculpt the rest of the piece around that. This process ensures the design is both innovative and unique.  Robert Musson, founder of Musson Jewellers, and Olivar’s father won two categories at the Jewellery Awards 2023.

-FINALIST FOR RED CARPET CATEGORY-

CALLISTEMON by Berj Ohanessian of Berjani Jewellers 

-FINALIST FOR RED CARPET CATEGORY-

PEACOCK by Jeff Einstein of Jeff Einstein Jewellery

“WINNER OF DESIGN FOR DIAMOND”

ORIONID by Alain Anson of Stephen Dibb Jewellery

-FINALIST FOR DESIGN FOR DIAMONDS CATEGORY-

LE RUBAN D’OR by Louis Dauxais of Matthew Ely Jewellery

“WINNER FANCY COLOURED DIAMONDS CATEGORY”

THE KALEIDOSCOPE by Nadia Neuman and Burt Muller of Mondial Pink Diamond Atelier

Nadia Neuman, founder of Mondial by Nadia and winner of Fancy Colour Diamond category as well as the winner of Supreme Award mentions that her inspiration always comes from the gemstone itself and then it’s the story I want to tell through the creation we make. Its finding a uniquely beautiful stone and figuring out how best to convey what makes it so special. It’s the unique colour or shape or feeling of a particular stone that inspires the theme of the piece. If were using a selection of stones, its what those stones say as a collection; the variety, the rarity and what they create together that sparks an idea. When entering a competition, I’ve never considered what’s traditional. There are certain rules that we know work through experience, there are tones and hues when combined that bring out the best in gemstones or add contrast. There are certain styles of setting and textures of gold that make a piece look contemporary or of an era but other than those things the most exciting part about entering a competition is that there are very few boundaries. The creation process is all consuming and very exciting. Once we’ve decided on the stone and I have a clearer idea of what we want to say, there is inspiration everywhere and that’s how the creation evolves. With regards to creating something unique, it’s a moment when I get to create something that I personally love. That’s what makes it unique. It’s a particular style and taste and combination of stones, metals and ideas that make sense to me personally.

-FINALIST FOR FANCY COLOURED DIAMONDS CATEGORY-

ECLOSION by Ben Preston Black and Rowan Thin-Smith of Creations Jewellers Canberra

-FINALIST FOR FANCY COLOURED DIAMONDS CATEGORY-

SUMMERTIME SUNSET by Travis Terwarne of Trewarne Fine Diamonds

“WINNER OF SOLITAIRE DIAMONDS CATEGORY”

ORSAY by Benjamin Tracy of Finelines Jewellers

-FINALIST OF SOLITAIRE DIAMOND CATEGORY-

TEARS OF JOY by Travis Terwarne of Trewarne Fine Diamonds

“WINNER OF SUPREME AWARD”

THE KALEIDOSCOPE by Nadia Neuman and Burt Muller of Mondial Pink Diamond Atelier

“WINNER OF PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD”

ORIONID by Alain Anson of Stephen Dibb Jewellery

It was a privilege to be part of sponsors of the event along with following brands and being on the esteemed judging panel of Jewellery Awards 2023, I am grateful to The Diamond Guild Australia for their trust in me and my social media platforms. Congratulations to all the entrants, each submitted piece was beyond expectations and displayed pure talent and strong craftmanship.

As members of press we had a very packed schedule to visit and experience as much as possible during our stay. Our schedule included 2 factory visits to Nanis & Peruffo for understanding the process of creating each piece, getting a feel of the atelier, production line, design studios and experience Italian jewelry to the best. Followed by a festive dinner, of course authentic Italian feast from handmade gnocchi, hand rolled cigars and Amarone wine!

Our nights were followed by attending events around the city and my favourite was an evening walk through the old town to enjoy Salvador Dalí sculptures all around the Basilica toward Museo del Gioiello Vicenza! Currently there is a temporary exhibition of ‘Precious Art: the jewellery sculptures of Salvador Dalí’ at Museo del Gioiello Vicenza that conveys his passion to express himself in space and three dimensions. The jeweled sculptures pay tribute to Dalí’s most important iconographic images, like the ballerinas, the angels and the watch. They are made from 18-carat gold and encrusted with precious stones, diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Each work of art is mounted on a translucent rock crystal base and signed in gold by Dalí. There are various rooms at the museum each dedicated to different aspects of jewelry such as symbol, fashion, beauty, magic, future and more.

Special thanks to Italian Trade Agency in Houston and Vicenzaoro team for inviting me to attend 2019 edition. To learh more about Italian Jewelry please visit: The Extraordinary Italian Jewelry www.teijewelry.com!

You can always read Part I by clicking on the following link:

#SIJE2015 – Part I Diamond Rings & Loose Diamonds

And stay tuned for 2 more follow up posts to complete my #SIJE2015 experience featuring Coloured Gemstones and All the Videos that I have from the show.

Alternatively, check out following hashtags on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter:

#SIJE2015

#ChampagneGemInSingapore

#ChampagneGemDiaries

Already looking forward to next year’s show!

Sit back and Relax, here are some fascinating pieces that I have ever seen.

xoxoxox

Bebe

Multi Shaped Diamond Necklace by Marawella by Vishal by Trance Jewels

Multi Shaped Yellow White Diamond Necklace by Marawella by Vishal by Trance Jewels

Multi Shaped Diamond Long Necklace and Earrings by Marawella by Vishal by Trance Jewels

34ct Pear Shaped Rose Cut Diamond Necklace by Azar Gems

90ct Multi Shaped Diamond Necklace and Matching Earrings by Azar Gems

90ct Multi Shaped Diamond Necklace and 57ct Rose Cut Diamond Earrings by Azar Gems

]]> https://champagnegem.com/2015/07/sije2015-part-ii-necklaces-earrings-bracelets/feed/ 0 2199 https://champagnegem.com/2013/07/30th-birthday/ https://champagnegem.com/2013/07/30th-birthday/#comments Wed, 03 Jul 2013 08:13:00 +0000 https://champagnegem.com/2013/07/30th-birthday/ Hi Jewelristas,

I know its been  such a long time since the last time I wrote something here, but I was away on vacation for almost 5 weeks, then I had my birthday celebrations and after that I had to move to a new place and you know how packing and unpacking stuff is time consuming and that is the reason why I couldn’t focus on what I want to write about my birthday gift. I know I didn’t write anything about the Cannes Film Festival but if you have checked my Facebook page, you have seen the fabulous pieces already, if not here is the link for all the red carpet photos of 2013:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.581286081885493.146364.221613091186129&type=3

I had my birthday on April 23rd and turned 30.

1.37 Carat Cognac Diamond with 2 Baguette Diamonds on the side

1.37 Carat Cognac Diamond with 2 Baguette Diamonds on the side

1.37 Carat Cognac Diamond with 2 Baguette Diamonds on the side

1.37 Carat Cognac Diamond with 2 Baguette Diamonds on the side

1 Carat Stud Round Brilliant Diamond Earrings

1 Carat Stud Round Brilliant Diamond Earrings

1 Carat Stud Round Brilliant Diamond Earrings

0.60 Carat Solitaire Round Brilliant Diamond Pendant

0.60 Carat Solitaire Round Brilliant Diamond Pendant

0.60 Carat Solitaire Round Brilliant Diamond Pendant

0.60 Carat Solitaire Round Brilliant Diamond Pendant

Hi Jewelristas,

Bebe & Stefano Canturi at fortyfive Flindars Ln

The Satine Necklace which was designed for Nicole Kidman’s “Satine” role in “Moulin Rouge” The Satine very first sketches The Satine painting

The Satine frames and sizing template

The Satine Necklace which was designed for Nicole Kidman “Satine” role in “Moulin Rouge”

Odyssey Cluster Ring blind sketch and painting

Odyssey Cluster Ring

Odyssey Cluster Ring

Cubism Cuff sketch

Cubism Cuff Sculpture

Cubism Cuff

Odyssey Butterfly concept study

Odyssey Butterfly sketch

Odyssey Butterfly sketch

Odyssey Butterfly painting and drawing

Odyssey Butterfly Ring

Odyssey Butterfly Ring

Cubism Emerald Earrings blind sketch

Cubism Emerald Earrings Sculpture Layout

Cubism Emerald Earrings

The Globe sketch

The Globe Painting

The Globe

The Famous Cubism Starburst painting

The Famous Cubism Starburst Necklace

The Cubism Ring sketches

The Cubism Ring

The Cubism Ring

]]> https://champagnegem.com/2013/02/stefano-canturi-journey-exhibition-of/feed/ 3 4608 https://champagnegem.com/2013/02/forevermark-forever-yours/ https://champagnegem.com/2013/02/forevermark-forever-yours/#respond Fri, 01 Feb 2013 07:08:00 +0000 https://champagnegem.com/2013/02/forevermark-forever-yours/  

Forevermark and Stephen Webster Diamond Ring

Forevermark with Martin Katz Ring

Forevermark and Kimberley McDonald Earrings

Forevermark and Kimberley McDonalds Bangle

Forevermark and Fred Leighton Earrings

Forevermark and Hoorsenbuhs Cuff

Forevermark and Martin Katz Earrings

Forevermark and Me&Ro Graduated Diamond Necklace

Forevermark and Me&Ro Long Diamond Graduated Earrings

Forevermark & Mimi So 3D Pyramid Ring

Forevermark Neiman Marcus Petite Earrings

Forevermark Asscher Cut Diamond Neiman Marcus Collection

Forevermark Neiman Marcus Swing Collection Anniversary Band

Forevermark Centre of My Universe Collection

Forevermark Neiman Marcus Bridal Collection

Forevermark Lattice Eternity Band

Forevermark Madison Ring by Neiman Marcus Collection Forevermark Eternity Band

Forevermark A.Link Collection Forevermark Infinity Earrings