From modest beginnings in Paris to predominance in the world of high fashion, the rise of the house of Cartier is comprehensively chronicled in this lavish volume. In the 1980s Cartier granted Hans Nadelhoffer exclusive access to its archives in order to write the definitive history. Long out of print, Nadelhoffer"s exhaustive research has been revived with lush new photography and design sketches of the world"s most distinctive and finely crafted jewelry. Through charming and compelling anecdotes, these famed gems and the elite clientele who don them are brought to life. This fully illustrated account is the essential complement to any jewelry lover"s collection, and will satisfy the longings of all those who covet this legendary brand.