Cartier is a renowned luxury brand known for its exquisite jewelry and watches. Among its most popular collections is the Cartier LOVE bracelet. Introduced in 1969, it quickly became a symbol of love and commitment. The bracelet features a unique design that comprises two halves that fit together and lock with a screwdriver. Over the years, the style has gained a massive following and has been spotted on the wrists of many celebrities and fashion icons.
Photo Credits: www.cartier.com
History of The Cartier LOVE Bracelet
The Cartier LOVE bracelet has a long and interesting history. It was first designed by Aldo Cipullo in the 1970s as a symbol of eternal love and commitment. Cipullo was inspired by the medieval tradition of locking a padlock on a loved one’s wrist, and he created the bracelet to be a modern version of this romantic gesture. The original Cartier LOVE bracelet was made of solid gold and featured a unique locking mechanism that required a screwdriver to open and close. This locking mechanism was meant to symbolize the idea that love is something that should be locked away and kept safe.
Over the years, the bracelet has become one of the most epochal pieces of jewelry in the world. It has been donned by innumerable celebrities and is a staple of high-end fashion. Unfortunately, the popularity of the Cartier bracelet has also led to the proliferation of counterfeit versions in the market. The demand for this iconic piece of jewelry has given rise to a thriving counterfeit industry that preys on unsuspecting buyers. It is, therefore, essential to know how to spot a fake Cartier LOVE bracelet to avoid falling victim to counterfeiters.
6 Steps on How to Spot A Fake Cartier LOVE Bracelet
1. Check the markings:
The first thing to look for is the hallmarks. Cartier is a luxury brand, and as such, the brand takes great care to ensure that its products are of the highest quality. A real bracelet will have a sign that indicates the purity of the metal. For instance, a hallmark of “750” indicates that the bracelet is made of 18k gold, while a hallmark of “950” indicates that the bracelet is made of platinum. Additionally, a genuine one will have the Cartier logo and the serial number engraved on the inside of the bracelet. If the bracelet does not have these hallmarks or has them poorly engraved, then it may not be the real deal..
2. Look at the screws:
The second thing to look for when trying to spot a fake Cartier LOVE bracelet is the screws. A real Cartier bracelet has two screws that secure the bracelet together. The screws are not only functional but are also a distinctive feature of the bracelet. The screws on an authentic one are flat and have a unique design that is only found on genuine Cartier products. Additionally, the screws are not easily removable and require a special screwdriver to be removed. If the screws on the bracelet are easily removable or do not have a unique design, then it is likely a fake.
3. Check the weight:
The bracelet is made of solid 18k gold or platinum, which makes it quite heavy. The weight of the bracelet ranges from 30 to 38 grams, depending on the size and material. If the bracelet feels light or flimsy, then it is likely a fake. Additionally, if the bracelet is made of a material other than gold or platinum, then it is definitely a fake.
4. Examine the packaging:
A bonafide Cartier LOVE bracelet should come in a luxurious red box with a suede lining. The box should have the Cartier logo on the lid and the interior. Additionally, the bracelet should come with a certificate of authenticity, which includes the serial number, metal type, and a description of the bracelet. If the packaging looks cheap or does not have the Cartier logo, it is likely a fake.
5. The price:
A genuine bracelet is a luxury item that is priced accordingly. The price of a genuine Cartier LOVE bracelet ranges from $6,000 to $50,000, depending on the size and material. If the price of the bracelet seems too good to be true, then it likely is.
6. Seek out professional authentication:
If you are still unsure whether a Cartier LOVE bracelet is real or fake, seek out a professional authentication service. Cartier has its own authentication service, or you can consult with a reputable jeweler.
The Cartier LOVE bracelet is an iconic piece of jewelry that has been loved and cherished for decades. While the bracelet is a symbol of eternal love and commitment, it is also a target for counterfeiters. If you want to make a purchase, it is important to know how to spot a fake to ensure that you are getting the real deal. By checking the markings, examining the screws, checking the weight, and examining the packaging, you can help ensure that you are getting an authentic Cartier bracelet.