The History of the Cartier Love Bracelet: From Chastity Belt to Cartier Collection

The Cartier Love Bracelet is one of the most recognizable and iconic pieces of jewellery in the world, symbolising eternal love and commitment. We recently gave three surprising facts about the collection.

Fact 1: The design was inspired by the Medieval Chastity belt.

Fact 2: Cartier originally would only sell the Cartier love bracelets to couples who visited the boutique together.

Fact 3: In the 1970s the Cartier Love Bracelet was so popular that hospitals in New York would keep spare screwdrivers to enable them to remove the Cartier love bracelet if needed.

Now we want to take a more in-depth dive into the Cartier Love Bracelet history.

The Origin Story: Inspired by the Chastity Belt

In 1969, Italian designer Aldo Cipullo, working for Cartier New York, created what would become one of the most famous bracelets in the world. Cipullo’s inspiration came from the medieval chastity belt, a piece that symbolised loyalty and commitment.

In its historical context, chastity belts were used as a safeguard to ensure a woman's fidelity. Cipullo reinterpreted this concept, transforming the chastity belt from a symbol of restraint into a symbol of devotion. Long and everlasting, locked into love.

The result? Luxury bracelets that could only only be worn with a special screwdriver, creating a modern-day twist to symbolise eternal commitment.

The Unique Screw Design

The Cartier Love Bracelet features a two-part design secured by screws on either side of the band, requiring a screwdriver to fasten and unfasten. This tool became a key part of the Cartier love bracelet’s identity and yet another nod to the key for a chastity belt. Symbolising the bond between two people. This iconic screw motif has now become a staple within the Cartier branding.

This luxury bracelet became so popular in fact that Hospitals in New York during the 1970s kept screwdrivers on hand – for those who needed them removed.

When first released Cartier would only sell to couples who attended the boutique together, emphasising the commitment implied by wearing the piece. The locking mechanism added such an exclusive touch and truly set it apart. However, in an ever-changing world the bracelet can now be used to symbolise anything from eternal love to self-love. There are no limits.

In time Cartier has made some adjustments, improving the screw system which is explained in our video below:

The Love Bracelet in Pop Culture

The Cartier Love Bracelet quickly gained a celebrity following. Rumour has it to mark its launch Cartier in fact gifted pieces to famous couples of the time. High-profile personalities such as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.

The collection has continued to be a choice for the rich and famous with modern-day celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker, Kylie Jenner, Katie Holmes, Angelina Jolie, Naomi Watts, and even Meghan Markle and Prince Harry among the famous Cartier Love bracelet owners. It continues to be one of the worlds most iconic jewellery pieces and designer trend.

Over the years, the Cartier love bracelet has evolved into a symbol of timeless elegance and love that transcends celebrity culture. It has become one of the best jewellery investment pieces and heirloom that can be passed down through generations. A piece of history, with monumental meaning.

A must-have item for luxury jewellery lovers around the globe.

Evolution of the Design

While the original Cartier Love Bracelet was designed in yellow gold, Cartier later introduced variations in rose and white gold, and eventually, pieces were adorned with diamonds and gems such as Amethyst, Garnet, and Sapphires. Today, the Love collection includes small models and cuffs. Rings, earrings, and necklaces, yet the regular model Cartier love bracelet remains the most coveted item of the range.

Within our current stocklist, we have a stunning array of the Cartier Love Collection:

We have a few different sizes still available of the original model, sizes ranging from 17-20. In both Yellow and Rose Gold:

This Cartier Love Bracelet 18K Rose Gold Size 18 won't be in stock long, don't miss out!

We also have the elegant small model option: Cartier Love Bracelet Small Model 18K Yellow Gold Size 19. This comes as a full set, original Cartier box and Cartier certification - Perfect! 

Want to understand the difference between the small model vs regular model, check out our video below which explains how to open and close this model, this is how to wear a Cartier Small Model Bracelet:

For those looking for an extra sparkle. We have this enchanting Cartier Love Bracelet 10 Multi Gemstone Rose Gold Size 17:

Another key feature that helps set the Cartier Love Bracelet apart is its unisex appeal. The sleek and minimal design suits all genders. This made it a pioneer in breaking the gender boundaries of luxury jewellery. Very much ahead of its time, Cartier has always been known to push boundaries whilst being inclusive of all to enjoy the luxury brand.

The Cartier Love Bracelet Today

More than 50 years after its creation, the Cartier Love Bracelet remains one of the best-selling luxury items in the world. Its price tag has risen over the decades, making it a true investment piece, but its popularity has never waned. From everyday wear to red-carpet events. The Cartier love bracelet is comfortable, versatile, and suit all occasions.

What began as a simple, elegant nod to the medieval chastity belt has transformed into an iconic piece of jewellery history, representing love, exclusivity, and a connection that stands the test of time.

From Chastity to Cartier Collection

The Cartier Love Bracelet has come a long way from its medieval inspiration. Its distinctive screw design and romantic symbolism continue to capture hearts, while its timeless appeal and evolution within the Cartier brand make it one of the most sought-after pieces of jewellery worldwide. Whether as a gift to a loved one or a personal statement of luxury, the Cartier Love Bracelet has etched its place as more than just jewellery—it’s a symbol of eternal love.

Are you looking for a particular size or model? Reach out to us today and we can source the perfect piece for you.

Want to learn more about how to care for your Cartier Love Bracelet, check out our video below: