Question 1

Why is Van Cleef & Arpels so special?

Accepted Answer

Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry is so special because of the storied house’s focus on technical virtuosity, craftsmanship and artistry. Rather than create earrings, bracelets, necklaces and other adornments primarily for the aim of displaying wealth and opulence, Van Cleef & Arpels sought to produce jewelry that projected the wearer’s taste and style. Born from a union of expertise in both jewelry making and gem selection, the jewelry house distinguishes itself with both the consistency of the color and clarity of its stones. The creativity of its designs and its unique innovations also make this luxury brand distinctive. In 1933, Van Cleef & Arpels patented its trademark Mystery Setting, a technique by which gems are fitted into an intricate matrix of slots and “drawers” that keep the setting hidden. But as much as to the firm’s craftsmanship, clients have been drawn by the insouciance and playfulness of Van Cleef & Arpels designers, as well as their attunement to the cultural climate. Shop a selection of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 2

What is the Van Cleef symbol?

Accepted Answer

The brand Van Cleef & Arpels is a well-known luxury jewelry and watchmaking company. Founded in 1896, the company was known for their timeless style and luxe jewels. In 1968 their Alhambra collection featured a four-leaf clover shape and suddenly that became the symbol for the brand. Shop a collection of expertly vetted vintage and new Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

Question 3

Are Van Cleef watches worth it?

Accepted Answer

Deciding if a Van Cleef & Arpels watch is worth the investment is really a matter of preference. The brand is a very well respected luxury brand that comes with a high price tag due to its history of quality, flawless gemstones, impeccable style and elegance. You’ll find a range of quality watches by Van Cleef and others on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is the flower of Van Cleef and Arpels?

Accepted Answer

What the flower is on Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry varies. Artisans at the luxury jewelry house have drawn inspiration from several types of flowers over time, including roses, chrysanthemums, peonies and daisies. Floral designs are frequently set with gemstones at their center and feature glittering pavé petals. After the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, the company produced several lavish pieces featuring hieroglyphics and other Egyptian motifs to go along with the geometric Art Deco jewelry of that decade and the next. Following World War II, as symbols of freedom and rebirth, the firm focused on naturalistic forms such as birds, flowers, fruit and flying insects. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry.

Question 5

Who wears Van Cleef & Arpels?

Accepted Answer

Many notable people wear Van Cleef & Arpels. During the 1970s, celebrities like Françoise Hardy, Princess Grace of Monaco and Elizabeth Taylor helped make the luxury jewelry maker famous worldwide by sporting pieces from the Alhambra collection. Today, Margot Robbie, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Adele, Sienna Miller, Mariah Carey, Kate Middleton and many other celebrities step out wearing pieces made by the luxury jewelry house. Explore a selection of vintage Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 6

How do you clean Van Cleef malachite?

Accepted Answer

To clean Van Cleef & Arpels malachite jewelry on a regular basis, wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For deeper cleaning, take your jewelry to a professional jeweler. Find a collection of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is the blue stone in Van Cleef?

Accepted Answer

What the blue stone is in Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry depends on the piece. The luxury jewelry maker uses a variety of blue stones in its celebrated necklaces, bracelets and other accessories, including blue agate and turquoise. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry.

Question 8

What does Van Cleef Alhambra mean?

Accepted Answer

The term Van Cleef Alhambra means a piece produced by the company Van Cleef & Arpels that features one or more four-leaf clover shapes. It is one of the most notable motifs used by the French jewelry house. Find a variety of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 9

Why is Van Cleef and Arpels so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Van Cleef & Arpels is so expensive because it is a well-known company that has a fantastic reputation. Van Cleef & Arpels are universally renowned for high quality jewelry with a focus on detail. High-profile fans of the French jewelry house over the years have included the Duchess of Windsor, Marlene Dietrich, Elizabeth Taylor and many more. Find an extraordinary range of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 10

Why is Van Cleef and Arpels so popular?

Accepted Answer

Van Cleef & Arpels is popular because it has been focused on technical virtuosity, craftsmanship and artistry since the brand's early days. Rather than create earrings, bracelets, necklaces and other adornments primarily for the aim of displaying of wealth and opulence, Van Cleef & Arpels sought to produce jewelry that projected the wearer's taste and style. One of the world's foremost jewelry houses, Van Cleef has also gained very prominent fans over the years, which definitely contributes to its popularity. The house's clients have included the Duchess of Windsor, Marlene Dietrich and Jacqueline Onassis. British royals, whom have long been influencers when it comes to jewelry and fashion, are among the world's countless devotees of Van Cleef's Alhambra collection. In the aughts, Reese Witherspoon was routinely photographed in her onyx Alhambra necklace. Sharon Stone and Mariah Carey were also seen sporting pieces from the collection. Find Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 11

Are Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier the same?

Accepted Answer

No, Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier are not the same. Although both are French and specialize in fine jewelry, they are different makers. Alfred Van Cleef and Salomon Arpels founded Van Cleef & Arpels, while Louis-François Cartier established Cartier. Explore a diverse assortment of Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 12

What is so special about Van Cleef & Arpels?

Accepted Answer

A few things are special about Van Cleef & Arpels. The French luxury jewelry maker is noted for its longstanding focus on technical virtuosity, artisanship and artistry. The maker is also known for its innovative designs. In 1933, Van Cleef & Arpels patented its trademark Mystery Setting, a technique by which gems are fitted into an intricate matrix of slots and "drawers" that keep the setting hidden. Another innovation was the Zip necklace, introduced in 1951, which can be worn either around the neck or, with the zipper closed, as a bracelet. Clients have also been drawn by the elegance and playfulness of Van Cleef & Arpels designers, as well as their attunement to the cultural climate. Over the years, its pieces have drawn inspiration from current events, such as the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, the end of World War II and the 1960s interest in the Middle East and India. Shop a wide variety of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 13

What country is Van Cleef & Arpels from?

Accepted Answer

Van Cleef & Arpels is from France. In 1905, the luxury jewelry house opened its first boutique on the Place Vendôme, across from the Hôtel Ritz in Paris. Today, the company maintains its headquarters in the city. Shop a large selection of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

What stones does Van Cleef & Arpels use?

Accepted Answer

Van Cleef & Arpels uses a variety of stones in its pieces. Some of the luxury jewelry maker's most common materials include malachite, mother-of-pearl, carnelian, onyx, turquoise, lapis lazuli, chalcedony and tiger's eye. In addition, there are Van Cleef & Arpels necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings with gemstones like diamonds, rubies and sapphires. There are even pieces featuring wood and S�vres porcelain. Shop a large selection of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1sDibs.

Question 15

What is the most iconic Van Cleef & Arpels necklace?

Accepted Answer

The most iconic Van Cleef & Arpels necklace is arguably the Alhambra. It features 20 clover-shaped motifs. When it debuted in 1968, each clover was formed from gold and had gold beads around its edges. In 1971, the house began making the motif from colorful opaque hard stones, including malachite, lapis lazuli, onyx, coral, tiger’s-eye and turquoise. Many celebrities, like Grace Kelly, Sharon Stone, Mariah Carey and Kate Middleton, have sported the necklace over the years. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra necklaces.

Question 16

What does the Van Cleef & Arpels clover represent?

Accepted Answer

The Van Cleef & Arpels clover represents luck, fortune, health and love, according to the brand. This motif is famously seen in the iconic Alhambra collection, but the luxury jewelry house has used four-leaf clover motifs in designs since the 1920s. Find a range of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 17

Is the Van Cleef & Arpels shape a cross?

Accepted Answer

No, the Van Cleef & Arpels iconic shape is not a cross. Called the Alhambra, the shape is actually a four-leaf clover. As a young man, Jacques Arpels, the nephew of one of the jewelry maker's founders, was fascinated with the relationship that four-leaf clovers have long shared with good fortune. His Alhambra motif pays tribute to the lucky charm but also references the quatrefoils so prevalent in the Moorish architecture of Spain's stately Alhambra palace, which is where the series gets its name. Explore a large selection of Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 18

What Van Cleef & Arpels stone is the most durable?

Accepted Answer

No single Van Cleef & Arpels stone is the most durable. A few stones commonly used by the jewelry maker compete for the title. Among them are carnelian, tiger's eye, onyx and agate. All four of these stones have a hardness rating of 7.0 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Keep in mind that how well you care for and store your jewelry, not just its materials, will impact its longevity. Following the care instructions provided by Van Cleef & Arpels can help your piece stand the test of time. Explore a variety of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 19

When did Van Cleef & Arpels become popular?

Accepted Answer

Van Cleef & Arpels became popular early in the 20th century. Many trend-setting women of the time sported Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry. The jewelry house’s fashion-conscious clients have included the Duchess of Windsor, Marlene Dietrich, Barbara Hutton, Jacqueline Onassis and Elizabeth Taylor. Its popularity has continued to the present day. Lately, attention among collectors and connoisseurs has centered on Van Cleef & Arpels's quality of workmanship as much as its glamour. The firm was the subject of a 2012 show at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York, as well as exhibitions at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, California, in 2013 and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris in 2014. Find a wide range of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 20

Does Van Cleef and Arpels have rose gold?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Van Cleef and Arpels has rose gold pieces. Some of the luxury jewelry maker's designs in 18-karat rose gold include the Alhambra necklace, the Félicité wedding band and the Perlée Signature bangle bracelet. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry.

Van Cleef Italy

Late 20th Century Italian Contemporary Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Bird Lapel Pin

Vintage 1970s Italian Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Onyx & Diamond Sautoir Necklace

20th Century Italian Drop Earrings

Italy Van Cleef & Arpels Carved Coral Drop Clip-on Earrings with Diamond, 18K

Vintage 1960s Italian Cocktail Rings

Van Cleef & Arpels Cabochon Burma Sapphire 7.32 cts

Vintage 1960s Italian Clip-on Earrings

Van Cleef & Arpels Carved Crystal and Diamond Earrings clip-on

2010s Italian Aesthetic Movement Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Chalcedony 18k White Gold Pendant Necklace

2010s Italian Aesthetic Movement Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Mother of Pearl 18k Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace

Vintage 1980s French Link Bracelets

Van Cleef & Arpels Coral Gold Vintage Bracelet French Estate Jewelry

2010s Italian Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Obsidian Diamond 18k Rose Gold 2023 Holiday

2010s Italian Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Obsidian DIamond 18k Rose Gold 2023 Holiday

Vintage 1960s French Link Bracelets

Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Bracelet Gold Coral Gemstones French Estate Jewelry

2010s Italian Aesthetic Movement Charm Bracelets

Van Cleef & Arpels Lucky Spring 5 Motif Multi Gemstone 18K Rose Gold Charm Brace

Vintage 1960s Italian Engagement Rings

Van Cleef & Arpels Modernist Vintage 18K Gold Diamond Ring

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Cufflinks

Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold Rope Onyx Cufflinks

Late 20th Century Italian Link Bracelets

Tiffany & Co. 18k Gold Curb Link Bracelet

Vintage 1950s Italian Cufflinks

VCA Large Flip Cufflinks

16th Century Old Masters Paintings

Dance Putti Van Cleve Paint Oil on table 16th Century Flemish Old master Belgium, 1550-1690

20th Century Italian Modern Link Necklaces

Italian Chunky Fancy Link Statement Necklace

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Modern Bracelets

Italian Turquoise 18K Yellow Gold Link Bracelet

Vintage 1970s Italian Choker Necklaces

A Vintage Mid Century Italian Tubogas 14k Gold Necklace

20th Century Italian Beaded Bracelets

Italian Blue Turquoise White Diamond Yellow Gold Pelouse Bracelet

Vintage 1970s Italian Modern Link Necklaces

Italian Oval Double Graduated Chunky 14K Yellow Gold Link Statement Necklace

Early 2000s Italian Modern Beaded Necklaces

Chiampesan Italian 18 Karat Yellow Gold Solid Chunky Bead Link Necklace

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Link Necklaces

Italian 14K Yellow Gold 9.50MM Curb Chunky Link Statement Necklace 18 Inches

20th Century Italian Modern Beaded Necklaces

Fope Italian Chunky Tubular Priofili 18K Gold 83.80 gr. Woven Necklace

Vintage 1980s Italian Modern Link Bracelets

Italian 14 Karat Two-Tone Yellow and White Gold Chunky Oval Link Bracelet

Vintage 1960s Italian Posters

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly / Il Buono Il Brutto Il Cattivo

Vintage 1960s Italian Posters

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly / Il Buono Il Brutto Il Cattivo

Vintage 1960s Italian Posters

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly / Il Buono Il Brutto Il Cattivo

Vintage 1960s Italian Posters

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly / Il Buono Il Brutto Il Cattivo

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Band Rings

ZYDO Sapphire & Diamond Domed Stretch 18K White Gold Ring

20th Century Italian Modern Link Bracelets

14 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Cut Curb Link 3 Row Bracelet

Late 20th Century Italian Modern Brooches

Sabbadini Large Mystery Set Sapphire Diamond Flower Brooch Pin

20th Century Italian Couture

The Story of Jewelry 1st ED. 1973 by J. Anderson Hardcover Book

20th Century Italian Modern Cuff Bracelets

Oromalia 18K Rose Gold and Leather Cuff Bracelet

Antique 19th Century Italian Romantic Dangle Earrings

Pair 19th Century Carved Coral Rosebud and Leaf 14K Yellow Gold Earrings

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Pendant Necklaces

Damiani 18K White Gold Diamond Necklace

Vintage 1940s Italian Cluster Rings

Diamond Platinum Ring With Clusters of Diamonds

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Classic Vintage Gold Wrist Watch Coffee Table

Vintage 1960s Italian Retro Link Bracelets