Why is the 100-year-old Cartier Trinity icon so popular?

To each individual owner of a piece of Cartier Trinity jewellery, the symbol of three interlocking rings mean something deeply personal. While the signature motif is already well-known as a representation of love, its interpretation can range from filial and marital devotion, to friendship and a belief that transcends the test of time.

Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Trinity, Cartier invites guests to an immersive experience that pays homage to this universal icon. Held from now until July 23 at The Arts House, the exhibition promises a journey through the heart of the jewellery icon.

Spanning over 674sqm square with seven interconnected rooms, this travelling pop-up offers a unique glimpse into the ring’s journey from its daring creation to its loyal devotees, past and present. From the magic of the number three to the intricate craftsmanship of the rings, visitors will explore the essence of Trinity, intertwined with Cartier's illustrious heritage.

The Trinity rings, meticulously crafted from yellow, rose, and white gold, represent the unity and magic of the number three: the three brothers — Louis, Pierre, and Jacques Cartier — and the maison’s three historic boutiques in Paris, London, and New York. The interlinked bands of Trinity sit atop and below one another, creating an intricate yet harmonious arrangement where no single band is distinguishable as the top or bottom. This design symbolises equality and balance, showcasing the perfection of the number three and its embodiment in the Trinity design.

From its inception, Trinity broke with the traditions of the craft. The ring's chromatic combination of three different golds, the fluidity of the rings, and the simplicity of the design exude strength. Throughout the years, Trinity’s innovative journey has showcased Cartier's legacy of refined creativity.

The early acclaim of the Trinity ring is closely linked to the poet and playwright Jean Cocteau. In the 1930s, Cocteau's distinctive style included two Trinity rings stacked on his left pinky, a look that became his signature. Cocteau's introduction of the Trinity to actor Jean Marais with the poignant words, "The first band is you, the second is me, and the third is our love", elevated the ring to a timeless emblem of his artistic spirit and enduring legacy.

Since its debut in 1924, Trinity has captivated the elite circles of fashion, from Hollywood stars to cafe society elites. The Trinity Centenary Collection celebrates this legacy with rare reissues and bold new designs, including the XL version of the Trinity bracelet and a maximal scale ring.

In conjunction with the centenary, Cartier reveals Imagine Infinite Circles, a collaborative project that gathers over 100 works by creative figures from all over the world. Curated by Jerome Sans, this collection features 30 artworks showcased at this Singapore exhibition, capturing the many facets of Trinity: love itself and the diversity of bonds it creates, as well as unity and universality.

Running daily until July 23, 12-9pm with the last session at 7.30pm, this show requires online registration at https://www.register.trinity100.cartier.sg/en/trinity100/en-sg.