This platinum, diamond, and emerald necklace was a special order from Cartier London in 1932 for the Countess of Granard. Photo: Nick Welsh, Cartier Collection ©Cartier. Photo courtesy of the Denver Art Museum.

BY LESLIE JORDAN CLARY

A new exhibit at the Denver Art Museum, “Brilliant: Cartier in the 20^th Century,” will be the sole venue worldwide for this retrospective journey offering insight to the culture and history that make up the story of Cartier. One theme of the exhibition is “Aristocracy and Aspiration,” which focuses on the time period from 1900 to 1918. This section showcases diamond, sapphire, rock crystal, and pearl jewelry prized by European royalty as well as wealthy Americans. A number of items that focus on color and geometry illustrate the Art Deco movement. Among the new materials Cartier used during this period are jade, coral, and black onyx. The exhibit will also include a large selection of items designed specifically for men such as cuff links, cigarette cases, and desk accessories. It will run from Nov. 16, 2014 through March 15, 2015.

—Oct. 23, 2014