There's no denying that Meghan Markle's jewellery box is famously filled with Princess Diana's heirlooms, classic pieces she's owned for years and affordable trinkets, but it's her Cartier Juste un Clou choker necklace that has recently stolen the spotlight.
Photographed wearing the designer accessory at the NBA All Star game over Valentine's weekend, Meghan's 'nail' necklace instantly elevated her all-navy outfit.
© Getty ImagesThe story of the Juste un Clou, which translates from French as "just a nail," begins in the New York back in 1971. It was designed by the legendary Aldo Cipullo, the same creative genius behind the iconic Cartier Love Bracelet. And while the vision was radical at the time, it was also very simple: take a humble, everyday hardware object and transform it into a work of art. Nailed it.
Cartier's Juste un Clou Necklace
It's proven to be a popular piece of jewellery with celebrities and influencers wearing the Juste un Clou range. But Meghan is the biggest celebrity fan after she added it to her Cartier collection back in 2024. In case you didn't know, she also owns the iconic Love Bangle and the Tank Watch, both of which she has been pictured in dozens of times since she first stepped into the public eye.
For Meghan, the necklace is a go-to. It is minimalist and architectural, but also matches Meghan's less-is-more approach to jewellery.
© Getty ImagesMeghan specifically loves the small model in 18K yellow gold, a delicate yet structured torque that features 57 pavé diamonds set into the head of the nail. The price tag for this masterpiece ranges from £15,000 to over £30,000 depending on the specific diamond weight.
Digital Luxe Editor Hollie Brotherton thinks Meghan's Cartier necklace is a sound investment purchase, saying: "Cartier is a well-known and coveted high-end brand, and the pieces have strong resell value. While the value is dependent on multiple factors, typically you can expect to receive anywhere between 40%-50% of its retail price."
© Getty ImagesGet the Cartier necklace look for less
Fortunately, for those who admire Meghan's jewellery style but don’t have a Netflix-sized budget, the market is currently brimming with high-quality alternatives that capture that same sculptural design. I decided to browse some of my favourite jewellery brands to find my top lookalikes (not dupes, more inspired-by pieces).
If you are looking to replicate the rigid, torque-style shape of the Cartier piece, the Heavenly London Gold Smooth Torque necklace, £140 / $200, is a fashion editor favourite. While it lacks the literal nail motif, it provides the same structural effect that brightens the face and adds a touch of luxury to a simple white shirt or a cashmere sweater. You can even add sparkly jewels to it if you want some bling.
GET THE LOOK: Heavenly London The Gold Smooth Torque Necklace
Those who want to support brands actually worn by Meghan might look toward Missoma. Meghan has been spotted in several pieces from this ethically-sourced brand, and their standout molten snow torque necklace, £395 / $620 is a great alternative to her Cartier piece. It is an open collar that contours to the neckline, offering a modern, clean silhouette that feels both regal and edgy. While it is a higher-tier alternative at roughly £395, it makes for a true forever piece.
If you're more on a budget, how about the Cos curved cuff necklace, £55? Made from quality gold-plated recycled brass, this choker rests delicately at the collarbone. It has a softly curved shape and can be styled alone or stacked with other pieces in your collection. If you're reading this in the US, and fancy a small splurge, how about the Anthropologie delicate collar necklace for less than $30?
How to style a torque choker necklace
To truly pull off the look like a pro, follow the Meghan Markle playbook for styling. The Juste un Clou was designed to sit directly on the skin, so it pairs best with open necklines - but I love how Meghan wears it with round-neck cashmere sweaters as well.
© NetflixThere are no rules! Meghan often keeps the rest of her outfit neutral - camel, cream, or navy - to ensure the architectural jewellery remains the star of the show. By choosing one of these inspired pieces, you can bring a touch of that royal, rebellious sophistication to your own everyday wardrobe.
