In movies, jewellery often becomes more than just an accessory; it transforms into a character in and of itself. Kate Winslet’s Heart of the Ocean necklace in Titanic and Anne Hathaway's Jeanne Toussaint necklace in Ocean's 8 are just two examples of how decadent pieces can drive the plot. These iconic jewels not only add visual flair but also symbolise desire, power and even tragedy, deeply impacting the story. Here are seven moments from the silver screen where precious stones took centre stage.
Carey Mulligan's Diamond Headpiece in The Great Gatsby
Tiffany & Co. crafted bespoke jewellery for the production of The Great Gatsby, making sure a stellar collection of jewels adorned lead character Daisy Buchanan, played by Carey Mulligan. Among the iconic pieces was the Savoy headpiece, which featured diamonds, freshwater cultured pearls and a detachable brooch, set in platinum. Inspired by the Jazz Age and the Roaring Twenties, the headpiece captures the opulence and eccentricity of the times.
Kate Hudson's Yellow Diamond Pendant in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
If there’s one scene from How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days that remains etched in memory, it is the scene where Kate Hudson attends the "Frost Yourself" gala, showcasing the 84-Carat Isadora necklace's breathtaking beauty and solidifying its place in cinematic history. The necklace, lent to the film by Harry Winston, was the undisputed star of the show and perfectly complemented the timeless yellow Carolina Herrera dress.
Nicole Kidman's Diamond Necklace in Moulin Rogue
Now known as the Satine necklace, the intricate diamond bib necklace worn by Nicole Kidman in Moulin Rouge was more a co-star than a prop. Designed by Sydney jeweller Stefano Canturi, it boasted 1,308 diamonds and was meticulously crafted to Kidman's measurements after numerous fittings. Given the necklace's significant value, a less-precious stunt double was created for scenes involving greater risk.
Kate Winslet's Heart of the Ocean pendant in Titanic
There’s no on-screen couple as iconic as Jack and Rose, having set the standards for what romance movies should look like forever. But what is found at the centre of the plot is the lost necklace, the Heart of the Ocean pendant, which kickstarts the three-hour-long movie. While the necklace is not real, it remains one of the most replicated pieces of jewellery in the history of cinema.
Grace Kelly's Engagement Ring in High Society
High Society was Grace Kelly's final film before her fairytale wedding to Prince Rainier III of Monaco. The film mirrored real life, as Kelly's character, the wealthy Tracy Lord, wore the actress’ own engagement ring – a breathtaking Cartier creation. This dazzling piece, featuring a 10.47-carat diamond and flanked by two baguette-cut diamonds, continues to inspire rings worldwide — a testament to its timeless elegance.
Audrey Hepburn's Pearl and Diamond Necklace in Breakfast at Tiffany's
Layers of pearls adorn Holly Golightly’s neck as she emerges from a taxi in the first scene of Breakfast at Tiffany's, a scene now synonymous with the movie and cinematic history. Audrey Hepburn, playing Holly, is dressed in black, effortlessly complementing the striking white of the layered pearl necklace — giving it its moment to shine. The necklace adds charm and sophistication to Holly’s look and sets the tone for the rest of the movie.
Anne Hathaway's Diamond Necklace in Ocean's 8
Thanks to Cartier’s exclusive partnership with Ocean’s 8, the jewellery showcased in the movie was nothing short of stunning. The Toussaint necklace, originally designed by Jacques Cartier and received by The Maharaja of Nawanagar, remains one of the most talked-about jewellery pieces to be seen on screen. The design was recreated for the movie, resizing it to better suit Anne Hathaway’s features (the original was designed for the male figure), and was created in zirconium oxide for use as a film prop.
