Cartier 18k Yellow Gold Ruby Elephant Mother & Child Pin Brooch

This Cartier elephant brooch is crafted in 18k gold and dates to circa the 1980s. The sculptural elephant motif, accented with ruby-set eyes, reflects Cartier’s longstanding use of animal forms, a design language that traces back to the house’s early 20th century fascination with exoticism and the decorative arts. Elephants have appeared periodically in Cartier’s menagerie of animal jewels, symbolizing strength, good fortune, and wisdom, and were especially embraced in the late 20th century as bold, collectible figural pieces. The brooch measures approximately 2 1/4 inches in length and 1/2 inch in width at the widest point, and weighs 14.9 grams. Stamped Cartier, 750, and with French assay marks, this vintage Cartier brooch is a distinctive example of the brand’s animal motif jewelry and a strong addition to any fine jewelry collection.