Anna Sawai, Cartier’s New Ambassador, Sparkled at the 2024 Emmys with Diamonds, Onyx, and Rubies

The Shōgun actress reveals how the jewelry house helped her pay tribute to her character, Lady Mariko.

Just days before the 2024 Emmys, Anna Sawai returned to Los Angeles from Australia, where she had been filming her latest project. At the Creative Arts Emmys, Shōgun, an adaptation of James Clavell’s 1975 novel, won an impressive 14 awards. Last night, the series was once again a big winner, taking home the Best Drama Series award, and Sawai received the Emmy for Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series, making her the first Japanese actress to win the award.

Although Sawai has received widespread acclaim for her role as Lady Mariko, she chose to celebrate the moment by honoring her mother. “After Shōgun, I wanted to thank her for allowing me to follow this path,” says Sawai. “I bought her a Cartier Love ring. I didn’t get one for myself because it seemed like too much of a luxury, but I wanted to give something special to the most important person.” For Sawai, jewelry is more than just an accessory; it’s a cherished memory. “It’s a keepsake that you carry with you,” she reflects.

Now, as Cartier’s new ambassador, Sawai excitedly shares what it means to work with the iconic jewelry house. “Cartier represents pure sophistication. I usually wear simple outfits, but just adding a Cartier ring makes me feel complete,” she says. For the Emmys, Sawai wanted to pay tribute to Lady Mariko through her look. With a red dress designed by Vera Wang, Sawai evoked both her character and her personal growth. She complemented her ensemble with Cartier High Jewelry earrings in platinum, onyx, diamonds, and a ruby, as well as a Cartier Reflection ring in 18k white gold with diamonds.

Sawai’s stylist, Karla Welch, described the look as “a minimalist and modern princess.” Shōgun costume designer Carlos Rosario explained how Lady Mariko’s wardrobe reflected her evolution: “At first, her wardrobe reflects her lack of life, but as she gains power and purpose, camellias begin to bloom in her clothing.”

Although Shōgun has been renewed, it’s uncertain whether Sawai will reprise her role, so she wanted to give Lady Mariko a fitting farewell. “The red dress with diamond jewelry is my ultimate tribute to the character,” she concludes.

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