How to Authenticate Cartier Jewellery: Expert Criteria
Cartier jewellery is among the most counterfeited on the market. The Love, Juste un Clou, and Trinity are particularly targeted.
Every 18-karat gold piece has a precise weight, regulatory hallmarks, and a unique serial number. Our gemologists at HAUTANE verify these first.
This guide covers the 8 essential criteria for all Cartier jewellery: bracelets, rings, necklaces, earrings.
If in doubt, authentication is free at HAUTANE and completed within 4 hours by our gemologists.
Checkpoints
The assay hallmark
750 hallmark (18K gold). In France: mandatory eagle's head. Struck, not engraved.
Tip : 10x magnifying glass: the hallmark must be crisp and deep.
The serial number
Unique, 3 letters + 3 digits (e.g. ABC123). Laser-engraved on recent models.
Tip : Usually engraved inside, near the hallmark. Legible but discreet.
The Cartier engraving
Specific typography with a characteristic capital C. Fine, crisp, uniform depth.
Tip : Compare with official photos: the C and r have very specific shapes.
The weight
18K gold: density 15.58 g/cm3. Classic yellow gold Love size 17: approximately 33-34g.
Tip : Precision scale (0.1g) and compare with official specifications.
Edge finish
Perfectly polished and rounded. No sharp edges. Uniform mirror polish.
Tip : Run your finger along the edges: absolute smoothness, no snagging.
The closure system
Love: special screws with Cartier screwdriver. Post-2017: captive screws. Juste un Clou: hinged clasp.
Tip : Post-2017 Love: screws turn but do not come out.
The box and certificate
Red leather box, cream suede interior. Certificate with serial number and hologram.
Tip : The box alone proves nothing, but its absence affects resale value.
The country hallmark
Hallmarks vary by country: eagle's head (France), owl (EU import). Struck by official bodies.
Tip : Jewellery purchased in France without an eagle's head: parallel import to verify.
Common counterfeits to avoid
- ✗Jewellery that is too light (gold-plated)
- ✗Cartier engraving with different typography
- ✗Missing 750 hallmark
- ✗Love screws that come out (post-2017 models)
- ✗Missing or illegible serial number
Frequently asked questions
How do I verify my Love bracelet?
Weight (approximately 33-34g yellow gold size 17), 750 hallmark, serial number, Cartier engraving, and screw system. HAUTANE authenticates free of charge.
Without a certificate, is it necessarily fake?
No. Authenticity is verified on the piece itself (hallmarks, weight, engravings).
Is the weight reliable?
Yes, it is one of the most reliable criteria. 18K gold has a density that counterfeits cannot replicate.
How can I get a free appraisal?
At HAUTANE, photos through our form, certified gemologists reply within 4 hours.
Unsure about authenticity?
Our experts authenticate your item for free in under 4 hours.
Get authenticated