The Cartier family was founded by Louis-Francois Cartier in 1847. His son took over in 1874. His sons took over the company and sent the name worldwide and became the company that is known today. The sons, Louis, Pierre, and Jacques, were responsible for some of the most beautiful and well known pieces that are featured in museums around the world.

Louis was responsible for the Tutti Fruitti style jewels, as well as Art Deco pieces and the mystery clocks. He was also in charge of the Paris branch. Upon his death, Claude Cartier, his son, took over his affairs. Pierre was the head of the New York branch of the business, selling a lot of jewels to society girls. The men's wristwatch collection was also a major seller. Jacques was a friend to several royals and notable members of high society. He was a great designer and, thanks to him, the company was able to sell vast quantities of luxury jewelry items. Cartier jewels were purchased by Edward VII, the Rockefellers, the Vanderbilts, the Morgans, Elizabeth Taylor, Czar Nicholas II, Albert I of Belgium, Princess Grace of Monocco, Marie Antionette, and Kate Middleton.

This book was written by a granddaughter of one of the Cartier brothers. Her desire to research the members of her family and write about them provided a great story here. It was part memoir, part history book. I really enjoyed learning about this family and some of the famous pieces. I enjoyed hearing the stories that her grandfather told to her. This book was suggested to be on the "because you purchased" section on Audible, so I picked it up. I didn't mean to get into a famous family reading spree, but I'm not sorry I have. This was a great book. I look forward to reading House of Gucci next.