Object Description
A vintage onyx, carnelian and 18ct yellow gold necklace by Cartier, designed by Aldo Cipullo, circa 1970. The necklace is designed as five uniform onyx plaques with oval carnelian plaques set either end, all set in 18ct yellow gold and connected with circular gold links. The necklace is fastened with a discreet clip clasp and safety.
Maker
Cartier, designed by Aldo Cipullo
Period
circa 1970
Origin
NY
Gemstones
Onyx and Carnelian plaques
Setting
18ct yellow gold, signed Cartier
Weight
181.3 grams
Dimensions
Length: 44cm/17.3″
Width (centre of onyx plaque): 1.5cm/0.5″
Condition
Very fine
Directors Notes
During his time with Cartier, Cipullo created multiple collections and was the only designer employed by Cartier allowed to sign Cartier pieces. His name will forever be intertwined with Cartier as he designed one of the most popular Cartier jewels of all time, the ‘Love’ bangle. Shortly after he designed the ‘Juste un Clou’ arguably as recognisable and iconic as the former. Cipullo believed that inspiration could be found all around and he had the ability to transform everyday shapes and motifs into desirable jewels. He left Cartier in 1974 to establish his own freelance atelier and he continued to have great success, he was a man with his finger firmly on the pulse of American contemporary culture whose jewels epitomise the glamour of New York life in the era of Studio 54. Sadly in 1984 he died at the age of just 48. Decades later his designs are still as desirable as when they were created, they have become iconic, collectable jewels loved by people every bit as stylish and fun-loving as the man who conceived them.