The Cartier Love bracelet

The Love bracelet is a meditation on permanence. Designed to be fastened with a screwdriver, it was conceived to be locked on by one person and worn by another, a modern answer to the idea of devotion. More than half a century later it remains one of the most recognisable jewels in the world. This guide explains its history, the versions you will meet, how to size one and how to care for it.

Key facts

Designed	1969, New York
Designer	Aldo Cipullo for Cartier
Signature details	Flat oval shape, screw-head motifs, screw closure with screwdriver
Metals	18k yellow, white and rose gold; platinum on some versions
Models	Classic, small model, diamond-set versions, Love cuff
Sizing	By circumference in centimetres

A jewel locked with a screwdriver

In 1969, Aldo Cipullo, a young designer working in New York, created a bracelet inspired by the idea of love as something that binds. The bracelet was formed from two rigid halves of gold joined by screws and could only be opened with a small screwdriver, which was meant to be kept by the giver. Cartier launched it in New York that year, and it soon became a symbol of the decade and beyond.

Anatomy of a Love bracelet

• Two halves forming a flat oval, designed to sit close against the wrist.
• Screw-head motifs around the bracelet, evoking the screws that fasten it.
• Functional screws on either side, joining the halves.
• Screwdriver, supplied with the bracelet.
• Interior engravings: Cartier signature, metal mark, size and serial.

Models

• Classic: the original width.
• Small model: a narrower version for a finer look, introduced later.
• Diamond-set: with diamonds replacing some or all screw motifs, or in pavé.
• Love cuff: an open cuff that slips on without a screwdriver.
• Coloured stones and ceramic: on some versions.

Metals

Love bracelets are made in 18-carat yellow, white and rose gold, and in platinum on some versions. Each gold has its own character: yellow is warm and classic, white is cool and pairs well with diamonds, and rose has a soft, flattering warmth.

The closure

The classic Love bracelet uses two screws, one each side, tightened with the supplied screwdriver. In recent years Cartier introduced a refined screw system designed to make the bracelet easier to fasten. Our listings note which closure a bracelet has.

Sizing

Because the Love bracelet is a rigid oval, sizing matters more than with a chain bracelet. Sizes are given in centimetres of inner circumference. As a rough guide, many people choose a size one to two centimetres larger than the circumference of their wrist, depending on whether they prefer a close or relaxed fit. If you are unsure, our client team will gladly help.

Wearing a Love bracelet

The Love bracelet is designed to be worn every day and often stacked. It pairs naturally with a watch or with Juste un Clou, and with Love bracelets in other golds. Because it fits closely, a single bracelet can sit on the wrist all day without moving much.

Caring for a Love bracelet

• Screws: check from time to time that they are secure, and tighten gently with the screwdriver if needed. Do not overtighten.
• Cleaning: warm water with a little mild soap and a soft brush, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
• Chemicals: avoid chlorine, harsh cleaners and abrasive materials.
• Storage: when not worn, keep it in its box or a soft pouch, separately from other jewellery.
• Scratches: everyday wear produces fine scratches on polished gold, which many people find add character. Polishing removes metal, so keep it to occasional, professional work.

Authentication

Every Love bracelet we offer is examined by our specialists. Read what we check on a Cartier Love bracelet.

Related: Cartier Juste un Clou · Cartier house guide

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