Bvlgari Vs Cartier: Which Jewelry Brand Is Better For You?

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With Bvlgari and Cartier as two of the biggest jewelry brands in the world, you may be wondering which one is better for you – and we’ve got all the information to help you answer that question.

Bvlgari and Cartier are among the top luxury jewelry brands, sitting alongside Tiffany, Harry Winston, and Van Cleef and Arpels. Both brands have long histories and are known for their incredible collections of high-quality jewelry and watches.

This means it can be very difficult to choose between these two brands, so we’re here to help you out. This article will take a look at each brand’s history, the differences between these two jewelry houses, and a comparison of top items from each brand before coming to a conclusion on Bvlgari vs Cartier.

Bvlgari vs Cartier

The History of Bvlgari

The Bvlgari brand was initially founded by Sotirios Voulgaris in 1884 and has now grown into one of the biggest Italian luxury brands.

The name came from the last name of the brand’s founder, Voulgaris, which is a Greek surname meaning Bulgarian, this was then shortened to Bulgari and in 1934 the Bvlgari logo was used for the first time. This means you may see the name written as either Bulgari or Bvlgari – both options refer to the same brand.


Bulgari jewelers were known for silver pieces that were inspired by Byzantine and Islamic art, but by the time of the Second World War, most jewelry was made from gold as it was easier to get a hold of. And, it was during this time, that the Serpenti collection was first introduced and became an important design as it was a different style from what was usually on offer.

The business boomed in the 1950s, with Hollywood stars as customers, including Ingrid Bergman, and Anna Magnani. This led to the expansion of the brand throughout the second half of the 20th century, and by 1993 the brand had diversified to now include perfumes.

In 2011, Bvlgari became a part of the LVMH conglomerate and the watch and jewelry-making parts of the brand grew even further. Now, just after the brand’s 140th anniversary, Bulgari is one of the most famous jewelry brands in the world.

The History of Cartier

Cartier was founded by Louis-François Cartier in 1847 when Cartier took over the workshop of his master, Adolph Picard, and began creating his own jewelry. Louis Cartier, the son of  Louis-François Cartier, was known for his exceptional designs that helped Cartier gain prominence and become a world-renowned brand.


One of Louis Cartier’s designs was the now-famous Tank watch; this was inspired by tanks that were now on the Western Front in World War I. The classic and timeless design has proved so popular that it is still a key design for the Cartier brand right now.

There are many famous pieces of jewelry that Cartier has designed, including the Baguette watch which was created in 1926, the mystery pocket watch in 1921, and the LOVE bracelet in 1969. Also in 1969, Cartier acquired the 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamonds which it initially sold to Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, and has since been renamed the Taylor-Burton diamond.

Cartier is also known for being a favorite jeweler of red carpet stars and royalty – with Grace Kelly’s engagement ring to Prince Rainier of Monaco being a Cartier piece.

Now, Cartier is seen as one of the most prestigious jewelry manufacturers, and its popularity is demonstrated by the brand’s more than 200 stores, with three historical ‘temples’ in London, New York, and Paris.

Differences between Bvlgari Vs Cartier

We’re going to take a closer look at some of the differences between these two luxury jewelry brands, as this is going to help you to decide which brand is better suited to you and your budget.

1. Price

One of the key differences that may affect your decision as to which brand to pick is the price range. We’ve compiled a list of the price range of some of the top pieces from each jeweler.

Bulgari watches range between $3,350 and $77,000, while Cartier watches are sold for between $2,610 and $279,000 – as you can see, Cartier offers much more expensive watches.

Necklaces – these have a very wide price range, for Bvlgari, the average price is between $620 and $76,000, and at Cartier, necklaces range from $610 to $372,000.

Bvlgari and Cartier both have incredible collections of rings, from Bvlgari, they are sold for between $560 and $53,000, while at Cartier rings are sold for between $760 and $314,000.

Lastly, we’re going to take a look at bracelets – at Bvlgari, bracelets are sold for around $580 to $87,000, and at Cartier, you will find bracelets for $610 and up to $330,000.

However, it is worth bearing in mind that sometimes the top prices can be higher – some diamond necklaces and watches, in particular, are so luxurious and made with so many precious stones that the price is only available if you enquire with the jewelers.

2. Materials and Craftsmanship

Both of these luxury jewelers have very high-end craftsmanship to ensure all items produced are made to the same high standard.

All Bvlgari jewelry is made in Italy, specifically Valenza, which is sometimes known as the Italian city of gold. In contrast, Cartier jewelry is made in France, in La Chaux-de-Fonds, close to the company’s headquarters.

There are also some differences in the material offered by each of these brands – this may affect the brand you choose to go for if you are after a certain type of precious metal.

Bvlgari pieces are made from a range of materials, including silver, ceramic, platinum, rose gold, white gold, and yellow gold. Some of these materials are slightly less expensive, meaning you may be able to get hold of some Bvlgari designs for a more affordable price.

Cartier, on the other hand, offers fewer materials – white gold, rose gold, yellow gold, platinum, and 3-gold, although some watches are made from sterling silver. All of these materials are pretty expensive so it is a little more difficult to find more affordable Cartier pieces.

3. Product Ranges

There is one similarity in that Bulgari and Cartier both offer more than just jewelry and watches, but there are also differences in what each luxury brand offers – so we’re going to take a closer look.

Bulgari offers both high jewelry and jewelry collections, as well as being a watch brand. But if you head to the Bulgari website you will also find collections of bags, belts, small leather goods, scarves, ties, eyewear, and a wide range of men’s and women’s fragrances.

The other items on offer from this luxury brand are just as luxurious as the jewelry designs, and some are a little cheaper meaning they are perfect if you are buying from Bvlgari for the first time.

Cartier also offers the expected fine jewelry, costume jewelry, and of course, watches. However, in addition to this, the luxury jewelry brand also sells bags, belts, stationery, small leather goods, eyewear, and a few fragrances.

If you compare the two, there are more collections of different products from Bvlgari, and each of these collections is larger than those offered by Cartier. Cartier is much more focused on jewelry, and then other collections of items are a smaller addition to the brand.

Top items from Bvlgari Vs Cartier

Here are some of our favorite pieces from Bvlgari and Cartier that we feel you might just love too – and perhaps help you to decide on an item to add to your shopping basket!

1. Watches
Bvlgari Serpenti Stainless Steel Watch
Get this on Neiman Marcus
Cartier Stainless Steel 24mm Tank Solo Quartz Watch
Browse Cartier Tank Watches on Fashionphile

Both brands are known for luxurious watches, with iconic designs and top-quality materials, here are just two stunning examples.

The Serpenti collection is one of the oldest jewelry collections that Bulgari has on offer – the timeless and iconic design means it has remained an integral part of the brand. This Bvlgari Serpenti Steel Watch has a striking design with a serpent-like look that begins with a snake-shaped head, winds around the wrist, and is finished with a tapered tail.

The watch is crafted from gleaming stainless steel with a silver-tone dial and Roman numeral time markers. We love the finishing touch of a red winding crown with a sparkling diamond – so gorgeous.

The Tank watch is a modern design that has been a part of the Cartier collection since 1919. This edition of the tank watch is made from stainless steel for a gorgeous, gleaming shine and is finished off with black detailing on the face.

The retro-inspired design features Roman numerals and the classic Cartier brand name on the face – as well as a date display for ultimate functionality. This is a classic watch that is perfect in any collection.

2. necklaces
Bvlgari B.Zero1 18k Rose Gold Pendant Necklace
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Cartier 18K Yellow Gold 2 Diamond LOVE Necklace
Browse Cartier LOVE Necklaces on Fashionphile

A great necklace can be worn with any and all outfits, no matter the occasion, and Bulgari and Cartier offer some versatile options that will suit any style – here are just two examples.

The B.Zero.1 collection is another favorite in the Bulgari brand, all featuring the wrapped barrel design. This time, the Bvlgari engraved barrel is the pendant on this beautiful B.Zero.1 necklace.

This edition is crafted from 18-carat rose gold that has an incredible shine. The simplicity of this necklace means it is perfect for everyday wear, on its own or layered with other chain-style necklaces.

The beloved LOVE collection has expanded beyond its initial bracelet design to now include rings and necklaces, as pictured above. The Love necklace features an engraved disc as the pendant and a small diamond sitting just above the pendant on the chain.

The pendant itself has been engraved with LOVE and ‘O’ is another bezel set diamond for that extra element of sparkle. Crafted from yellow gold, this necklace is an ultimate classic.

3. Rings
Bvlgari Serpenti Viper 2-Coil Ring in 18k Yellow Gold and Diamonds
Get this on Neiman Marcus
Cartier 18K Pink Gold Diamond Juste Un Clou Ring
Browse Cartier Juste Un Clou Rings on Fashionphile

Both of these jewelry brands are known for their vast collections of rings, whether you are looking for an engagement ring, wedding ring, or just a gorgeous new sparkling accessory, there is an option for everyone.

If you are looking for a classic Bvlgari piece with a super glamorous look, then this Bvlgari Serpenti Viper 2-Coil Ring in 18k Yellow Gold and Diamonds is exactly what you need.

The Serpenti silhouette has been given a contemporary and cutting-edge update with a new geometric design – just so beautiful. This snaking ring coils around the finger twice for a dramatic look and then is finished with round white diamonds at the head and tail for a sparkling addition.

The bent nail motif of the Juste Un Clou ring has become world-famous – the design is incredibly desirable all over the world and is now instantly recognizable as Cartier.

The delicate nail wraps around the finger have been made from 18-carat rose gold and then decorated with pave set diamonds on the head of the nail and the small tip – just to add that little extra sparkle and glimmer to your finger!

4. Bracelets
Rose gold, pink, green, purple, and blue Bvlgari Diva's Dream Small Rose Gold Mother-of-Pearl and Multi-Stone Bracelet
Get this on Neiman Marcus
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Small LOVE Bracelet
Browse Cartier LOVE Bracelets on Fashionphile

Bulgari and Cartier offer some of the most iconic bracelet designs that are instantly recognizable and completely irresistible – just take a look for yourself!

The Diva’s Dream collection is another beloved range offered by Bvlgari, and this Diva’s Dream Small Rose Gold Mother-of-Pearl and Multi-Stone Bracelet is just one piece from the best-selling collection.

This rose gold bracelet is made up of multicolored beads, glistening gemstones of amethyst, rubellite, blue topaz, pink tourmaline, and mother-of-pearl, and finished with diamond-encrusted the Diva’s Dream curved triangle motif. This bracelet will add a wonderful pop of color to any outfit.

The fan-favorite Cartier LOVE bracelet is now available in many different editions, including different precious metals, diamond embellishments, and a variety of widths.

The LOVE bracelet pictured above is the smaller edition, but with all the same iconic elements. The bracelet opens with a hinge and screw that is then tightened around the wrist with the screwdriver that comes with the bracelet to form a symbol of everlasting love.

Conclusion

Jewelry from both of these brands is completely stunning and incredibly high quality so you can’t really go wrong either way. However, there are some important factors you need to consider that may help you decide which brand between Bvlgari vs Cartier to go for.

If you have a slightly smaller budget and want a wider range of materials, then Bvlgari is the brand to go for. Their pieces are slightly more affordable, and they offer a wider range of metals so you can choose the option that best suits your personal style and lifestyle.

However, if you have a little bit more money to spend and want an iconic piece of jewelry, then Cartier is the best option for you. The more expensive metals and price tags, as well as the famous designs, means that Cartier jewelry is a good investment as you know the pieces will look eternally stylish.

Both of these brands are a great idea if you are looking for luxury jewelry, it just depends on your budget and style as to whether you should choose Bvlgari vs Cartier.

We hope you found this analysis of Bvlgari vs Cartier helpful! For more luxury fashion content, check out the links below.

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