Cartier and the elegance of the Tutti Frutti style
Popularized in the 1920s and 1930s , the "Tutti Frutti" style is characterized by the use of colored gemstones in various forms, often inspired by floral and fruity motifs.
The “Tutti Frutti” creations use a mix of sapphires, rubies, emeralds and diamonds , often cut into geometric or whimsical shapes. This innovative approach helped define the Art Deco style of the time, with its oriental motifs.
The “Tutti Frutti” jewels have become emblematic of Cartier’s elegance and audacity. In 1901, Queen Alexandra of Denmark commissioned Pierre Cartier to create a necklace that could be worn with Indian dresses given to her by Mary Curzon, wife of the Viceroy of India.
In 1911, Jacques Cartier , Pierre Cartier's brother, was influenced by Indian culture during his trip to India and incorporated these precious stones into the Maison's jewelry. He succumbed to the charm of this culture and its characteristic stones, such as these emeralds carved in the shape of leaves.
The "Tutti Frutti" jewelry was exhibited at the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris in 1925, which was a great success. Cartier created masterpieces such as the famous necklace worn by Daisy Fellowes , an elegant woman of the time.
This necklace, designed by Cartier, symbolizes the dazzling beauty of the “Tutti Frutti”. Composed of antique stones brought by its owner , its design pays homage to traditional Indian jewelry, initially with a cord at the back rather than a clasp.
It was not until the 1970s that the "Hindou" style was renamed "Tutti Frutti". Originally, "Tutti Frutti" was a cream filled with small pieces of various fruits. It is an old Italian recipe that Catherine de Medici brought back to France from Florence in 1533.
Since 1989, Cartier has registered "Tutti Frutti" as a trademark in the watch and jewelry sector. Today, it embodies Cartier's passion for volume and the play of stones and colors.
