Explainer / Why Cartier’s Love bangle was the OG must-have stacking bracelet: created in 1969 and inspired by chastity belts, the jewellery piece is still loved by Justin Bieber, Kylie Jenner and Meghan Markle
Luxury jewellery is a way to mark special occasions; a milestone or an anniversary. This way, jewellery stacks can reflect noteworthy moments and achievements in life.
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Jewellery powerhouses like Van Cleef & Arpels, Piaget, Chaumet and Tiffany & Co. have all, in recent years, launched designs that reflect this trend and can be integrated into existing arm stacks. For many, however, Cartier’s Love bracelet usually marks the beginning of their stacking journey.
The Cartier Love bracelet’s history dates back to 1969, with a design said to signify love that is permanent and forever. Designer Aldo Cipullo was inspired by chastity belts to create the Love bracelet’s unisex shackle design.
While the idea of restricting a woman’s freedom is archaic in modern times, recreating that screw-on design evokes a feeling of permanence, commitment and purity. The New York designer also injected the contemporary energy and dynamism of the city into his creation.
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Instead of a buckle or a clasp, the bangle is secured on the wrist with a screwdriver that comes with the bangle. The piece echoes the Cartier de Santos watch, where the screws are also incorporated into the design rather than kept hidden.
Cipullo managed to create a design that spoke to the edgy aesthetic philosophy of the era while resonating with consumers emotionally. The bracelet with a screwdriver was sold for just US$250 when the design first debuted.
At first glance, the bangle looks round, but it is actually oval and formed that way to fit the wrist more ergonomically. From the get go, the piece was created as an androgynous, his-and-hers design to signify being “handcuffed” to a loved one. The screw design means the bangle isn’t meant to come on and off daily. It also requires another person’s help to put on and take off.
More than five decades later, the Cartier Love bangle remains ever relevant and is spotted on the wrists of the rich and famous – and those looking for an entrance into luxury jewellery.
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Practicality gave way to a cuff version of the design. However, judging by its social media presence, it’s safe to assume that devotion to the original screw-fastened rendition reigns supreme.
Love is forever, indeed?
- The Cartier Love bracelet, designed in 1969 by Aldo Cipullo, is celebrated for its iconic screw motif and unique locking mechanism, symbolising a commitment that can’t be easily undone
- Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, wore hers during her headline-making interview with Oprah Winfrey, while Miley Cyrus donned a yellow gold version in the music video for her song ‘Jaded’