Noun: A family of flowering plants that store sap reserves in their tissues, enabling them to withstand long periods of drought. At Cartier, Cactus is a zesty collection of jewelry. It’s a statement of femininity, an expression of true freedom of spirit.

Adjective: Bright, shiny, and too visible. False, figuratively speaking. At Cartier, a clinquant is a small strip of gold or silver placed behind or under portrait diamonds to multiply their brilliance and enhance their color.

Noun: Pointed nail on the feet of certain animals. By extension, a person’s unique imprint, signature stamp. At Cartier, the serti griffe (claw setting) involves securing the stone with gold or platinum rods. Discreet and aesthetically pleasing, it’s specifically used for center stones, as it emphasizes their size.

Noun: Monotone shade or dull atmosphere. At Cartier, grisaille enamel is an expert technique that superimposes white enamel, called “Blanc de Limoges,” on a black background.

Noun: Iron bar used to build railroad tracks. At Cartier, the rail setting involves sliding stones into a groove cut in the metal and closing it at the ends.

Noun: Combustion phenomenon producing heat and light, one of the four elements. At Cartier, feu refers to the reflection of the intense light revealed by the cut of the diamonds. It is also used for opals and rubies, although “brilliance” and “splendor” remain more common terms for these gems.