A lucky few will be able to discover the exquisite Cartier Jewellery Institute, a sanctuary of craftsmanship and tradition, as the iconic brand opens its doors to the public for European Heritage Days. Visitors will delve into the heart of jewellery making, gem-cutting, and more, and witness the fusion of heritage and innovation that defines Cartier’s (Instagram) legacy.
Nestled within the historic Parisian jewellery district, Cartier’s Jewellery Institute stands as a beacon of artistic excellence. In a rare opportunity, Cartier invites 200 lucky visitors to embark on a journey through time and craftsmanship during the European Heritage Days this weekend.
Founded in 2002 and set within an 18th-century mansion, Cartier’s Jewellery Institute serves as hallowed ground for the nurturing of talent. Every year it trains 150 craft artisans across a range of jewellery making trades.
As guests wander through the Institute in intimate groups of twelve, they’ll explore three enchanting floors. The meticulously curated tour unveils the intricate techniques and artistry behind jewellery making, gem-cutting, mounting, and polishing. Additionally, hidden gems like glyptics and casting, having shared the limelight with pearl threading last year, will enchant visitors once more.
In a quest to inspire the next generation, Cartier offers a unique opportunity for young minds to interact with the artisans directly. They will gain insights into the passion, backgrounds, and daily routines of these remarkable creatives. Visitors will also be encouraged to immerse themselves in the art of jewellery making, contributing to the creation of a collaborative panther—the iconic symbol of Cartier.
Participating in European Heritage Days aligns with Cartier’s mission to celebrate and advance the artistry of jewellery making. The House’s commitment extends to both time-honoured techniques such as mounting and glyptics, which Cartier diligently preserves, and modern savoir-faire rooted in cutting-edge technologies like digital design. Cartier’s dedication to nurturing these ancient skills while investing in the future is exemplified by its collaboration with the Haute Ecole de Joaillerie (HEJ – Instagram) to establish the institution’s first-ever Digital Bachelor’s Degree.
Cartier’s commitment to education extends to forging partnerships with educational institutions to train the jewellers of tomorrow. The brand actively engages with schools to provide training for aspiring artisan jewellers, hosting 50 work-study students and interns annually. In a testament to its dedication, Cartier has doubled its intake of students and trainees this year.
As the doors of Cartier’s Jewellery Institute swing open, it’s an invitation to experience the artistry, heritage, and dedication that have defined the brand for generations. With one foot in the past and another in the future, Cartier continues to illuminate the path of craftsmanship and innovation in the world of jewellery.
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