Weighing 8.3 grams and measuring 21.82 x 17.6 x 16.4 mm, the royal Cartier pearl, which was once owned by Queen Mary of England, is said to be one of the most beautiful in existence thanks to its perfectly symmetrical shape and silvery lustre. Biennale des Antiquaires 2014.

Hidden within the ripple of pearls and diamonds is a highly complex mechanism created by Cartier that allows the wearer to transform the jewel to follow the contours of the neck or the forehead. The central pearl, still in its original diamond setting, can also be detached and worn as a pendant. Biennale des Antiquaires 2014.

Thanks to an innovative sliding system, Cartier has created a transformable piece of jewellery that will be presented at the 2014 Biennale des Antiquaires and can be worn as a tiara or a necklace. Biennale des Antiquaires 2014.

Alongside the royal Cartier pearl pendant - still in its original diamond setting - is a pair of matching drop-shaped pearl and diamond earrings, which complete the tiara/necklace set. Biennale des Antiquaires 2014.

Photos courtesy of Cartier