*MIZGUIDES* Love Actually: Facts on the Cartier Love Bracelet

Just like your first kiss or slipping into that perfect pair of pumps, the Cartier Love bracelet holds a special place in a woman's heart. There are several things we already know about this iconic piece of jewelry, such as how each bracelet is fastened and can only be removed with a tiny screwdriver, and that it symbolizes eternal love. But I've been doing some research and came across these interesting facts.

•The Cartier Love bracelet was designed in 1969 by a young Cartier designer named Aldo Cipullo.
•It is said that his design was inspired by chastity belts from the medieval era when warriors often locked up their wives in such contraptions before going off to war.
•When Cartier first launched the Love bracelet, the French jeweler sold them with a policy where customers were not permitted to purchase the bracelet for themselves.
•Soon after the launch, a waiting list had to be created because of the high demand for the bracelet. The continuing popularity led to the development of more styles in the Love collection such as Precious Love Bracelet in 1979, Love Ring in 1983, Love Cufflinks in 1984, and Love Earrings in 1985.
•Other than 18k yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, and platinum, some bracelets are created with diamonds. Ceramic details and other precious gems are available as well. Cuff versions with no locking mechanism are also sold.
•After the July 2011 Cartier price increase, the current retail value for the classic 18k yellow gold locking Love is $5,575 while the white gold is $5,975. Prices for diamond & ceramic range from $37,500 to $52,800.
•According to Vogue, it is so popular among stylish New Yorkers that some hospitals are known to keep a Love bracelet screwdriver handy in case it needs to be removed.

MizAdvice: Interested in learning more fun facts on luxury classics? Check out these MizGuide articles on the Chanel 2.55 & Tod's Gommino shoes.  

{Image credit: Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Vanity Fair Italy, and Vogue Paris}