“…one sublime jewel that reveals the essence of each of its individual gems, a symbol of the history and craftsmanship of Cartier.”

The Cartier column soars skyward in a spectacular array of colour and exquisite neoclassical form, a beacon of light and beauty in turbulent times.

As fashion houses fold and budgets are slashed across the world creative scene, Cartier presents this magnificent work by Alessandro Mendini, a 2.3 metre high monolith of  18 carat pink gold on a black granite base. A total weight of 720 kilograms.

The seven golden segments of the column house one hundred and forty crystal flutes filled with precious stones, in a display of ornate decadence lost to the days of old.

In total the column holds over 17,000 carats of diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds and semi-precious stones.

The stones are recycled and cannot be used in jewellery and the column itself is a dynamic piece – easily dismantled, reconfigured and ready to travel. It was revealed at Art Basel 09 in June.

I truly hope the Colonna di Cartier finds a suitable permanent home – for such a sight must not be kept behind closed doors, but for all the world to marvel at its magnitude and beauty.