The legendary collaboration between María Félix and Cartier
An exceptional partnership between an icon and a prestigious brand
The collaboration between Mexican actress María Félix and Cartier remains an iconic chapter in the history of fine jewelry . Cartier created a series of exceptional pieces for this distinguished artist. This partnership is a tangible testament to the timeless elegance that characterizes both María Félix and Cartier.
The snake necklace, a symbol of María Félix's flamboyant personality
María Félix and Cartier collaborated to create an iconic piece of high jewelry: the Serpent necklace . Designed in 1968 , this platinum serpent, measuring 60 cm in length, is adorned with diamonds and has an enameled belly in the vibrant colors of Mexico . Legend has it that Félix loved to twirl it around her head like a lasso .
The crocodile necklace: a technical and artistic feat
The inspiration and design of the necklace
The collaboration continued in 1975 with the creation of the crocodile necklace by Jeanne Toussaint , Cartier 's long-time artistic director. An anecdote confirmed by Cartier recounts that she actually brought a live baby crocodile to inspire the artisans .
A unique and complex creation
To meet the challenge, Cartier designed a necklace featuring two intertwined crocodiles , fully articulated and transformable , which can also be worn as a brooch . The inner legs can be replaced with motifs simulating folded legs for added comfort.
This necklace comprises two fully articulated crocodiles, one set with 1,023 yellow diamonds (60.02 ct) and the other with 1,060 emeralds (66.86 ct), adorned with ruby and emerald eyes, respectively. The crocodiles, crafted in yellow gold , are encrusted with fancy yellow diamonds , emeralds , and rubies . This dynamic reptilian necklace required no less than 1,875 hours of work , a testament to the exceptional attention Cartier devoted to this visionary creation .
A legacy to be perpetuated
After María Félix 's death, her precious jewelry collection was put up for sale , and Cartier acquired the famous crocodile necklace to add to its historical archives . In 2006 , actress Monica Bellucci had the privilege of wearing this piece at the Cannes Film Festival .
