Spotting Fake vs Real Cartier Bracelets
Due to its popularity as an iconic premium brand, Cartier jewelry is frequently the target of counterfeiters. However, imitation Cartier bracelets cannot match the remarkable craftsmanship and workmanship of genuine pieces. True Cartier wristbands can be distinguished from imposters by paying special attention to materials, craftsmanship, branding, and other aspects.
Hallmarks of Genuine Cartier Bracelets
- Precious metals, such as 18K rose, white, or yellow gold
- Premium jewels of high quality, if present
- Links, stones, and screws that are perfectly uniform and symmetrical
- Serial number engraved on an inner band or clasp component
- Metalwork with a smooth, clean finish and edges
Warning Signs of Fake Cartier Bracelets
- Lightweight materials that appear to be made of plastic or hollow metal
- Stones that are poorly fastened or clearly glued-on
- Smudged signature stamps or logos
- Disorganized soldering or metal casting
- Missing links, sloppy etching, and rough gemstone cutting
Cartier Engraving Techniques
Authentic Cartier engraving should use a very thin Roman font with consistency in depth and spacing between letters and words. Fakes often use thicker, uneven fonts and depths. Genuine Cartier also engraves horizontally across the inner band in a perfectly straight line. Counterfeits may engraved crookedly or at an angle. The iconic Cartier name should be precisely centered on the inner engraving, never touching the edges. If the font, depth, alignment, or positioning looks uneven, sloppy, or touches the band’s edges, it’s likely a fake bracelet not up to Cartier’s standards.
Authenticating Cartier Packaging and Documentation
- Authenticity certificate with serial number match
- Expensive packaging such as leather boxes, pouches, and paperwork
- Keep an eye out for spelling mistakes or low-quality goods.
- Check the serial numbers on all documents and bracelets.
Where to Carefully Shop for Pre-owned Cartier
- From the Cartier certified pre-owned collection
- Trustworthy auction houses such as Christie’s or Sotheby’s
- Reputable jewelry retailers who provide authentication guarantees
- When purchasing online, request many close-up shots.
Conclusion
It takes enormous talent to replicate the impeccable craftsmanship of an authentic Cartier. While fakes may appear plausible at first, closer investigation reveals their unauthentic origins. Do your homework to ensure your Cartier bracelet purchase is authentic.
FAQs
While the exact stamping for authentic Cartier jewelry can vary, modern jewelry will be stamped with Cartier’s logo, the jewelry’s metal type and a unique serial number. Cartier’s logo is always printed in their signature script, any other fonts or misspellings is a sign of counterfeits.
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.
Essential Lines bracelet, white gold (750/1000), set with 61 brilliant-cut diamonds totaling 3.34 carats (for size 17). Receive a notification as soon as the item is back in stock. Cartier d’Amour bracelet, 18K yellow gold (750/1000), set with a brilliant-cut diamond totaling 0.13 carat. Thickness: 2.1 mm.
Fact: When Cartier first established themselves as jewelry makers, much of their pieces were gold-plated. But today, Cartier jewelry, including LOVE bracelets, is 18k (or platinum). So, no, not pure gold. 18k means the piece comprises 75% gold and 25% mixed alloys.