The first “Tutti Frutti” piece was designed in 1901 by Pierre Cartier. It was a necklace commissioned by Queen Alexandra to be worn with three Indian gowns she had received as gifts. The designs are considered the perfect mix of East and West as they are made up of brightly coloured gemstones (like sapphires, rubies and emeralds) carved using Indian techniques.

The style became extremely popular during the 1920s, but it wasn't named “Tutti Frutti” until 1970. At the time, they were known simply as “pierres de couleur” (coloured stones). Jacques Cartier, who ran the Cartier London store in the 1920s and 30s, often travelled to India where he was fascinated by the colours of the Indian gem stones. He saw the bracelets as an impressionist painting with the blaze of red, green and yellow. Nothing is clearly defined, and there is but one vivid impression of gorgeousness and wealth.