Nearly 500 jewels, art objects and artefacts from French jewellery brand Cartier are going on display in Melbourne.

Mostly, the pieces are designed to showcase the wealth of the wearer, and a jewel is nothing if not draped across a powerful figure.

Nearly 500 jewels, art objects and artefacts from French jewellery brand Cartier are going on display in Melbourne.

Sabine Marcelis' debuts exhibition design for Cartier's 'Diamonds Are Forever,' showcasing 300 jewels at Melbourne's National Gallery of Victoria.