Yes, authentic Cartier jewelry is always signed with a clean, precise engraving of the "Cartier" logo in its signature script. Modern pieces also include specific hallmarks and a unique serial number.
Serial Number: In addition to the standard stamping that all Cartier jewelry has, both halves of the LOVE bracelet will include the bracelet's serial number and respective metal.
We will require a signature by you or an adult at the delivery address (unless arranged by you otherwise), to confirm the delivery of each product, at which point risk and responsibility for your purchased goods passes to you.
You may notice lettering that is uneven, blurry, inconsistent in spacing or even misspellings. Familiarise yourself with the font that genuine Cartier watches should use, as well as the depth and consistency of the engraving, as these are common mistakes that fakes often fall short on.
While Cartier no longer offers authentication, they still offer repairs, resizing, and polishing—but only for pieces they determine to be authentic.
In summary, when determining the authenticity of a Cartier watch, consider the following key points:
Owning a pre-owned Cartier watch is like owning a piece of history. When cared for properly, these Cartier watches hold their value and can even become heirloom timepieces that you can pass down to the next generation.
The vast majority of modern standard-production Cartier watches will have eight-digit serial numbers (six numerals plus two letters), and this marking will be clearly engraved upon their casebacks.
A telling sign of authenticity in Cartier jewellery is the presence and quality of hallmarks and engravings. Cartier engraves its pieces with specific hallmarks; the Cartier logo, metal purity (e.g., 750 for 18k gold), and sometimes a unique serial number. These engravings should be crisp, clear, and evenly spaced.
Fake serial numbers often break the pattern Cartier uses - for instance, using fewer characters, random symbols, or incorrect spacing. Some counterfeiters reuse the same fake number across many pairs.
Yes, Cartier is generally considered a higher-end, more expensive luxury brand than Tiffany due to its focus on solid gold, platinum, and diamonds, royal heritage, and higher starting price points, while Tiffany offers a broader price range, incorporating sterling silver and catering to more modern, minimalist styles alongside its high-quality diamonds. Cartier often commands higher prices and resale values, though certain high-end Tiffany pieces can rival or exceed Cartier's cost, especially for engagement rings.
These original documents will help certify the model and authenticity of your jewelry and if it is to be sold on to a collector, these documents are often required. Note: If you are missing this information you can still sell your Cartier jewelry.
Part of the signature design of Cartier watches are blue detailing which you'll find on the hands and the crown. These do not appear on all watches, but when they do, they are executed with utmost quality. Many Cartier models have the blued steel hands heated to turn a brilliant sapphire blue.
To spot a fake Cartier bracelet, check for precise, crisp engravings (not blurry or shallow), deep and clean hallmarks (like "Cartier," metal type "750" or "950," size, serial number), precise screw heads with no gaps, solid weight (not light), and high-quality materials, as fakes often use lighter metal or plating, have poor finishing, or come in cheap packaging with misspellings.
THE PANTHER, AN EMBLEMATIC ANIMAL
The panther is Cartier's iconic animal: a wild, untamable animal whose symbolism and elegance have reigned over the Maison's creativity since its first appearance in 1914. Now more than ever, the panther is an inexhaustible source of inspiration for designers.
Common Signs of Fake Jewelry
You can be assured of authenticity by purchasing Cartier models from a Cartier boutique or authorized dealer; however, we are unable to provide information or authentication for items acquired outside of Cartier boutiques or authorized dealers.
The majority of Cartier's pieces are made from solid 18-carat gold - one of the most expensive types of gold available - so investing in Cartier jewellery is worthwhile.
Cartier exclusively uses 18k gold (750/1000 purity) across all its gold watch collections, meaning 75% of the metal is pure gold alloyed with other metals to achieve different colors and improved durability.
Most Cartier models have two important sets of numbers. The longer number is the serial number which is unique to every watch created. Current models have serial numbers that are 8 characters long and consist of 6 numbers and 2 letters. Modern Cartier watches also have a 4-digit number which is the case reference.
The role of Cartier watches serial numbers
It may reveal the model's name, year of manufacture, size, and metal types such as stainless steel, gold, or platinum. It is also linked to the purchase history of the watch. Serial numbers may be useful in locating a specific timepiece if it is misplaced or stolen.
All Cartier Love bracelets have the word “Cartier” engraved on them. The engraving should be clean, clear, and evenly spaced. Additionally, the font used for the engraving should be consistent with other cartier products. If the engraving is blurry or uneven, it's likely to be a fake.
Bvlgari vs. Cartier is a clash of bold Italian opulence versus classic French elegance; Cartier offers timeless, regal designs (think Panthère, Love, Trinity) with rich history, appealing to tradition, while Bvlgari is known for vibrant, dramatic, and modern Italian artistry (Serpenti, Octo, Parentesi), attracting trendsetters. Cartier embodies "King of Jewelers," focusing on iconic motifs and refined sophistication, whereas Bvlgari embraces bold colors, unique shapes, and high-impact statements.
Mappin & Webb is proud to offer customers an online collection of pre-owned Cartier watches. A byword for luxury, you're sure to find some of the most iconic models amongst our second-hand Cartier watches.