Following the death of George V In January 1936, royalty and nobility gathered at Jacques Cartier to put money into jewelry for Edward VIII’s coronation.
However, it has now come to light that the jeweller was simultaneously crafting an engagement ring for Edward’s mistresses. Wallis Simpson , resulting in his abdication.
A display focusing on the jewellery brand named after its creator begins today at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London has disclosed that Mr. Cartier was among the earliest individuals aware that Edward intended to propose to the American divorcée.
Francesca Cartier Brickell, the great-granddaughter of the jeweler, stated that Edward would enter Mr. Cartier’s London store at the rear entrance 'unnoticed' and then be led to a private chamber.
She added: 'It’s bizarre that my great-grandfather likely understood that Edward VIII would opt for love instead of duty even beforehand.' Royal Family knew.
'Even the Duke of York, who had dropped by Cartier London around the same period to purchase a tiara for his spouse, likely remained unaware of his sibling's complete plans.'
On November 16, 1936, Edward notified Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin about his plans to wed Miss Simpson.
However, it appears he didn't mention this. George VI , purchased a tiara for his spouse to wear at his sibling’s coronation just two days afterward. Edward stepped down on December 10.
On her 18th birthday, the Queen Mother presented her halo tiara to her daughter, who was then Princess Elizabeth.
Cartier has been Known as the King of jewelry, yet it truly serves as the jeweler for kings, queens, empresses, maharajahs, princesses, and virtually every notable figure within the global nobility.
Initially, Cartier London launched on New Burlington Street, just a stone’s throw away from its subsequent location on New Bond Street. The store relocated there in 1909 and has stayed at that spot ever since.
It was a brilliantly strategic move for Cartier to launch in London, considering the global prominence of the British Royal Family. Wherever they lead, others tend to follow, and since Queen Alexandra’s time, the royal family has shown unwavering dedication to the brand.
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