Cartier Juste un Clou

What if a simple nail, bent around the wrist, could become fine jewellery? That was the idea behind Juste un Clou, Cartier's bracelet in the shape of a nail. Designed in 1970s New York, it took an everyday object and turned it into something precise, elegant and unexpectedly sensual. This guide explains the collection's history, the pieces and sizes you will meet, and how to care for them.

Key facts

Original design	1970s, New York
Designer	Aldo Cipullo
Relaunch	2012
Signature details	A nail bent into a bracelet, ring or earring, with a faceted head and point
Metals	18k yellow, white and rose gold
Pieces	Bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces
Models	Classic, small model; plain or diamond-set

The nail as jewel

Aldo Cipullo, also the designer of the Love bracelet, created the original nail bracelet in New York in the early 1970s. It reflected a moment when jewellery was becoming more personal and playful, borrowing from hardware and everyday objects.

In 2012 Cartier relaunched the design as Juste un Clou, and it quickly became one of the house's signature collections, expanded to rings, earrings and necklaces.

Anatomy of a Juste un Clou piece

• Head: a faceted nail head, crisp and precise.
• Shaft: the body of the nail, curved around the wrist or finger.
• Point: the tapering tip, which meets or passes the head.
• Opening: bracelets open with a discreet hinge and clasp.
• Engravings: Cartier signature, metal mark, size and serial on the inside.

The pieces

• Bracelets: the classic and small models, in plain gold or set with diamonds on the head and shaft.
• Rings: in classic and small widths, plain or diamond-set.
• Earrings: hoops and studs, including pavé versions. We currently have a pair of large pavé Juste un Clou earrings in white gold.
• Necklaces: pendants and chokers.

Metals

Juste un Clou is made in 18-carat yellow, white and rose gold. White gold is often paired with diamonds, while yellow and rose gold bring warmth to the nail's angular form.

Sizing

Bracelets are sized in centimetres; rings by Cartier's ring sizes. A bracelet should sit closely around the wrist, so please check your size before choosing. Our client team will gladly help. We currently have a Juste un Clou bracelet, small model, in yellow gold, size 16.

Wearing Juste un Clou

Juste un Clou is made to be worn every day and stacked. A pairing with the Love bracelet is a classic, both designs being by Cipullo. A single Juste un Clou ring or pair of earrings has a quieter edge.

Caring for Juste un Clou

• Cleaning: warm water with a little mild soap and a soft brush, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
• Diamonds: pavé settings collect dust and lotions. Clean gently, and have settings checked periodically by a jeweller.
• Clasp: check that the bracelet closes securely. If it loosens, have it adjusted by a specialist.
• Chemicals: avoid chlorine and harsh cleaners.
• Storage: keep pieces separately in a pouch or box to avoid scratches.
• Polishing: occasional professional polishing only, as it removes metal.

Love or Juste un Clou?

Clients often ask which to choose. The Love bracelet is a closed oval, screwed on, sitting flat against the wrist. Juste un Clou is a sculptural form that opens on a hinge and has a more graphic, assertive outline. Many people wear both.

Authentication

Every Cartier piece we offer is examined by our specialists, who check metal, weight, construction, engravings, serial and stones. Read how we authenticate and our Cartier Love bracelet guide, which describes many of the same principles.

Related: Cartier Love bracelet · Cartier house guide

Encore Luxe is an independent retailer and is not affiliated with Cartier.