Founded in Paris in 1847, what once was a small workshop has gone on to become one of the, if not the, most iconic jewellery brands in history. Cartier worked closely with countless sovereigns and royal families worldwide, creating everything from crowns and tiaras to necklaces and earrings. The brand has since become a regular on the red carpet, with celebrities wearing its glittering creations for premieres, award season and industry events. However, Cartier isn’t all about ornate pieces. (Though, it does them exceptionally well.) Some of its most recognisable jewellery, particularly the pieces that have become status symbols, have an industrial aesthetic—one of which is the Juste un Clou bangle.
The bracelet is the Cartier Love bracelet’s younger and easier-to-remove sister and was inspired by the humble nail. Its name is the French translation for “just a nail.” Released in 1971, the Juste un Clou bangle was designed by Aldo Cipullo, the luxury brand’s jewellery designer, who had a distinct minimalist, androgynous style and love of all things nuts, bolts and screws. The Juste un Clou, along with the Love bracelet, made Cartier relevant to a younger, more fashionable audience, with the pieces commanding a cult following.