Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond & 18k Gold Link Ring
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
A vintage Van Cleef and Arpels chain link diamond ring from the 1980's with that cigar band vibe.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels 18K Rose Gold Zodiac Pendant On A Chain Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Both meaningful and luxurious, Van Cleef & Arpels zodiac jewels are celebrated among collectors for their rarity, artistry, and deeply personal symbolism.
18k Gold, Rose Gold
Van Cleef And Arpels Lapis Lazuli Alhambra Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef And Arpels Lapis Lazuli and 18k yellow gold Vintage Alhambra necklace. Accented with 20 clover motifs. Equipped with spring ring closure. Inscribed: VCA, 750, XXXX L90. St...
Lapis Lazuli, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Carnelian and Tiger's Eye 'Magic Alhambra' Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This Van Cleef & Arpels 18K gold necklace features 16 variously sized carnelian and tiger's eye quatrefoil motifs on a fine link chain.
Carnelian, Tiger's Eye, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Rose Gold Obsidian Alhambra Bracelet And Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
A striking Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra suite crafted in 18K rose gold, comprised of a Five Motif Obsidian bracelet and matching Twenty Motif Obsidian necklace. Together, these iconic...
18k Gold, Rose Gold
$70,800Sale Price|20% Off
Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Diamond 18K Yellow Gold Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Chicago, IL
A rare and impressive Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra diamond necklace, crafted in 18K yellow gold with a bold and substantial presence. Dating to circa 90'S, this estate Van Cleef ...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels 18K Yellow Gold Lion Brooch Pendant Convertible Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
A true statement piece from the 1970s, this remarkable Van Cleef & Arpels necklace is a masterpiece of versatility and craftsmanship.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Onyx Vintage Alhambra 10 Motif Necklace VCARA42700
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
An iconic 18k yellow gold and onyx Van Cleef and Arpels necklace from the Vintage Alhambra collection. The necklace comprises of 10 iconic 4 leaf clover motifs, each set with a beade...
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Guilloche Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif Bracelet VCARP3JK00
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A stunning 18k yellow gold, guilloche bracelet from the Vintage Alhambra collection by Van Cleef and Arpels. The bracelet is made up of 5 of the iconic clover motifs, each set with a...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels White Gold Chalcedony Vintage Alhambra Necklace VCARD34800
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A beautiful 18k white gold chalcedony necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels from the Vintage Alhambra collection. The necklace has 10 motifs, each set with a chalcedony inlay and complement...
Chalcedony, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Tiger Eye Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33302012 Comes With Full Set (Pouch, Card, Invoice) Date 2018 RRP £2,970 Incl. Taxes / €3,500 Incl. Taxes / $3,350 Excl. Taxes Model VCARD38600 Serial Number JA4609** Metal 18k Y...
Tiger's Eye, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Yellow Gold Vintage Lapis And Coral 33 Inch Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels long necklace crafted in 18K yellow gold, designed with alternating lapis lazuli and coral bead stations along a twisted rope-link chain.
Coral, Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Two-tone Gold Convertible Necklace & Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Van Cleef & Arpels convertible necklace and bracelet crafted in two tone 18k gold, circa 1980s, designed with a distinctive open link pattern that alternates yellow gold and white go...
Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra 18K Yellow Gold Mother of Pearl Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Southampton, PA
This Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra bracelet will never go out of style. Crafted from opulent 18K Yellow Gold, the iconic clover-shaped motifs accented by Mother of Pearl stones pro...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Gold Leaf Diamond Vintage Retro Choker Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Serial Numbered, Presumed New York Origin, Retro Era Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels New York 18K Yellow Gold Leaf Motif Diamond Retro Choker Necklace.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Diamond Alhambra 10 Motif Necklace & Bracelet Set
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Southampton, PA
18k White Gold Set Of Vintage Alhambra Ten-Motif Diamond Necklaces and 5 Motif Vintage Alhambra Diamond Bracelet by Van Cleef & Arpels. With Necklace 10 motifs of 120 round brillian...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra 16 Motif Mother of Pearl Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra long necklace features 16 iconic clover motifs crafted from mother-of-pearl, each stone unique with its own natural color and characteristics. ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Twenty Motif Rock Crystal Gold Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold Alhambra Twenty-Motif Rock Crystal. Necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels. Exquisitely crafted, the Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold 20 Motif Alhambra Rock Crystal Neckl...
Crystal, Rock Crystal, Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18KR Gold 5 Motif Grey Mother Of Pearl And Diamond Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This pre-owned Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra bracelet is crafted in 18K rose gold and features five iconic clover motifs, including three grey mother-of-pearl Alhambras and two diamond...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Zodiac Star Signs Astrology Vintage 18K Gold Anchor Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Tysons, VA
Rare and highly collectible Van Cleef & Arpels Zodiac Star Astrological Signs bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold, dating to the 1970s–1980s period. This exceptional vintage piec...
18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels French 1950s Diamond 18K Gold Platinum Vintage Woven Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as multiple strands of meshed wheat chain gathered in center via twisting knot motif Knot features a row of graduated transitional cut diamonds prong set in platinum Weighin...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Mother of Pearl Magic Alhambra Necklace VCARD7930
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A gorgeous 18k yellow gold Van Cleef & Arpels necklace from the Magic Alhambra collection.
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Mother of Pearl Magic Alhambra Necklace VCARD7930
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A gorgeous 18k yellow gold Van Cleef & Arpels necklace from the Magic Alhambra collection.
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Carnelian & Tiger's Eye Magic Alhambra Necklace V
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
An exquisite 18k yellow gold Van Cleef & Arpels necklace from the Magic Alhambra collection.
Carnelian, Tiger's Eye, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 20 Motif Necklace in 18K Rose Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Chevy Chase, MD
An impossible to find Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Necklace! This necklace features 120 round brilliant Diamonds, DEF color, and VVS clarity with a total weight of 4.83 carat...
Diamond, Natural Pearl, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K White Gold Grey Mother Of Pearl Butterfly Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels butterfly necklace crafted in 18K white gold, featuring wings formed from grey mother-of-pearl with soft natural iridescence. The body of the butterfly is set with...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 20 Motif Turquoise Vintage Alhambra Necklace 18k White Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Aventura, FL
A rare and authentic Van Cleef & Arpels Turquoise 'Alhambra' Necklace creation crafted in 18K White Gold.
Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Lucky Alhambra 4 Motifs 18K Yellow Gold Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301499 Comes With Pouch Only Date 2019 RRP £4,950 Incl. Taxes / €5,700 Incl. Taxes / $5,300 Excl. Taxes Model VCARD79600 Serial Number JA****** Metal 18k Yellow Gold Stones Mal...
Carnelian, Malachite, Pearl, Tiger's Eye, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$5,960Sale Price|20% Off
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Paris Necklace In 18Kt Yellow Gold With VS Diamonds
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Diamonds bow necklace designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. This is the iconic bow necklace chain, created in Paris France by the jewelry house of Van Cleef & Arpels, back in the 1980.
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Malachite 18K Yellow Gold 20 Motif Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 77702065 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2013 RRP £19,700 Incl Taxes / €23,200 Incl. Taxes / $23,600 Excl. Taxes Model VCARL88100 Serial Number JB3673** Metal 18k Yellow Go...
Chalcedony, Malachite, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Yellow Gold Bouton D'or Pendant Brooch Clip Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Bouton d'Or pendant necklace with a detachable clip, accompanied by its original VCA box, certificate of authenticity, insurance valuation, and receipt.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Yellow Gold Vintage 20 Motif Alhambra 1985 Coral Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Gold Vintage White Coral 20 Motif Alhambra Chain Necklace.
Coral, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Alhambra Hammered 1 Motif Bracelet 18K Rose Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33302011 Comes With Full Set (Pouch + Card) Date 2016 RRP £1,390 Incl. Taxes / €1,640 Incl. Taxes / $1,520 Excl. Taxes Model VCARO8DC00 Serial Number JE5274** Metal 18k Rose Gold...
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Pure Alhambra Mother of Pearl 18K Yellow Gold Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301663 Comes With Full Set (Pouch + Card) Date 2014 RRP £6,500 Incl. Taxes / €7,650 Incl. Taxes / $7,350 Excl. Taxes Model VCARA36300 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Yellow Go...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
$67,200Sale Price|20% Off
Van Cleef & Arpels Byzantine Alhambra Long Chain Necklace 18K Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Chicago, IL
This elegant Van Cleef & Arpels Byzantine Alhambra long chain necklace beautifully reflects the timeless sophistication and refined craftsmanship for which the maison is renowned.
Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Byzantine Alhambra 18k Yellow Gold Long Chain Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This classic long necklace from the iconic Byzantine Alhambra collection by Van Cleef & Arpels is crafted in 18k yellow gold and features a series of polished gold openwork Alhambra ...
Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels, 18K Gold Diamond Pendant
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
A diamond-set contour introduces measured brilliance, enhancing depth without interrupting the pendant’s harmonious flow. The vintage rope chain is not by Van Cleef & Arpels. Br...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Pink Porcelain and Diamond Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, GB
Condition: Used (Very Good) Weight: 6.0 grams Pendant Dimensions: 14.5mm x 14.5mm Diamond Weight: Approx. 0.03ct Chain Length: 16 inches Chain Width: 1mm Marked: 'VCA' 'Au750' & Seri...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold Paperclip Link Chain Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold Paperclip Cable Link Bracelet .
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Zodiac Bracelet Necklace Set
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, GB
Here we have a striking 18ct yellow gold necklace come bracelet set from the world renowned luxury jewellery house of Van Cleef & Arpels. A trio of individual pieces including a ...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Perlee Signature Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Perlee Signature Bracelet PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: 154516 Listing Title: Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Perlee Signature Bracelet Condition Desc...
Yellow Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Green Chalcedony, Coral and Diamond Tassel Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Bearing the French export mark for Georges Lenfant, this piece reflects the work of one of Paris’ most esteemed 20th-century chain ateliers. Lenfant was renowned for producing exquis...
Chalcedony, Coral, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra 5-Motif Bracelet in 18K Gold with Red Carnelian
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra 5-Motif Bracelet in 18K Gold with Red Carnelian Purchased in 2020 Comes with original box and warranty card Original retail price: over 40,000 RMB Suitabl...
Carnelian, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Platinum Diamond Necklace, 35.00 carats
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Color/Clarity: H-I, VS-SI Certifications: Size: 14 inches Creator: Van Cleef & Arpels Metal: Platinum Weight: 76.50 grams Period: 1955 An exceptionally signed Van Cleef & Arpels pie...
Diamond, Platinum
Van Cleef & Arpels diamond earrings, French, circa 1970.
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, GB
Pery & Fils started to work almost exclusively for Van Cleef & Arpels in 1925, after having previously created gold chains for many of the major Parisien high-jewellery houses.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels Vintage Alhambra holiday pendant 2023 Obsidian
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, England
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra holiday pendant 2023 Obsidian and diamond.
Diamond, 18k Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Diamond Cosmos Pendant Diamond Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This small pendant, crafted from 18k white gold, is adorned with sparkling pavé diamonds and hangs elegantly from a diamond chain. Approximate Diamond Pendent Weight - 1.89 CTS Appr...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van cleef & Arpels "Butterfly" Diamond Necklace & Earrings Suit
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels diamond "Butterfly" earrings and necklace suite.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Necklace 18k Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This vintage Van Cleef & Arpels necklace is finely crafted in 18k yellow gold and features an elegant diamond design.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Gold Button Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Southampton, PA
18k Yellow Gold Diamond Button Pendant Necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels. With 34 Round Brilliant cut diamonds VS1 clarity, G color total weight approximately 1.00ct This necklace comes...
Diamond, Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Carnelian Vintage Alhambra Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Carnelian Vintage Alhambra Bracelet PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: Z154832 Listing Title: Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Carnelian Vintage Alhambra Brac...
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Malachite Vintage Alhambra Pendant
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Malachite Vintage Alhambra Pendant PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: 154625 Listing Title: Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Malachite Vintage Alhambra Pendan...
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Gold Diamond Frivole Pendant Necklace and Brooch
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Gold Diamond Frivole Pendant Necklace and Brooch With authenticity certificate.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Agate Vintage Alhambra Pendant
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Agate Vintage Alhambra Pendant PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: 154142 Listing Title: Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Agate Vintage Alhambra Pendant Condit...
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Malachite Vintage Alhambra Pendant
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Malachite Vintage Alhambra Pendant PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: Z154779 Listing Title: Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Malachite Vintage Alhambra Penda...
Van Cleef & Arpels White Gold Chalcedony Vintage Alhambra Pendant
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels White Gold Chalcedony Vintage Alhambra Pendant PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: Z154781 Listing Title: Van Cleef & Arpels White Gold Chalcedony Vintage Alhambra Penda...
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Agate Vintage Alhambra Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Agate Vintage Alhambra Bracelet PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: Z154777 Listing Title: Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Agate Vintage Alhambra Bracelet Con...
One of the world’s foremost jewelry houses, Van Cleef & Arpels is particularly noted for a focus on technical virtuosity, craftsmanship and artistry, evident since its beginning. 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.
The company was formed a year after the 1895 marriage of Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a gem cutter, to Estelle Arpels, daughter of precious-stones dealer Salomon Arpels. Ten years later, Van Cleef & Arpels opened its first boutique on the Place Vendôme in Paris, setting the march on a square now crowded with dealers in bijouterie. (The company still occupies the New York flagship store opened in 1939 at Fifth Avenue and 57th Street.)
Born from a union of expertise in both jewelry making and gem selection, Van Cleef & Arpels distinguished itself with both the consistency of the color and clarity of its stones and the creativity of its designs. In doing so, the house would win a roster of dedicated, fashion-conscious clients that included the Duchess of Windsor, Marlene Dietrich, Barbara Hutton, Jacqueline Onassis and Elizabeth Taylor. 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 signal innovation was the Zip necklace, introduced in 1951, which can be worn either around the neck or, with the zipper closed, as a bracelet.
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. 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. High society’s 1960s fascination with the Near East and India prompted such pieces as the best-selling Alhambra necklace, popularized by Princess Grace.
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, as well as exhibitions at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, California, in 2013 and at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris in 2014.
Find an exquisite collection of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.
Gold is the feel-good metal, the serotonin of jewelry. Wear vintage and antique gold necklaces, watches, gold bracelets or gold rings and you feel happy, you feel dressed, you feel, well, yourself.
Gold, especially yellow gold, with its rich patina and ancient pedigree going back thousands of years, is the steady standby, the well-mannered metal of choice. Any discussion of this lustrous metal comes down to a basic truth: Gold is elementary, my dear. Gold jewelry that couples the mystique of the metal with superb design and craftsmanship achieves the status of an enduring classic. Many luxury houses have given us some of our most treasured and lasting examples of gold jewelry over the years.
Since its founding, in 1837, Tiffany & Co. has built its reputation on its company jewelry as well as its coterie of boutique designers, which has included Jean Schlumberger, Donald Claflin, Angela Cummings and Elsa Peretti. There are numerous gold Tiffany classics worth citing. Some are accented with gemstones, but all stand out for their design and the workmanship displayed.
For the woman who prefers a minimalist look, the Tiffany & Co. twist bangle (thin, slightly ovoid) is stylishly simple. For Cummings devotees, signature pieces feature hard stone inlay, such as her pairs of gold ear clips inlaid with black jade (a play on the classic Chanel black and tan), or bangles whose design recalls ocean waves, with undulating lines of lapis lazuli and mother-of-pearl. And just about any design by the great Jean Schlumberger is by definition a classic.
Even had he eschewed stones and diamonds, Southern-born David Webb would be hailed for the vast arsenal of heavy gold jewelry he designed. Gold, usually hammered or textured in some manner, defines great David Webb jewelry. The self-taught jeweler made very au courant pieces while drawing inspiration from ancient and out-of-the-way sources — East meets West in the commanding gold necklaces made by Webb in the early 1970s. The same could be said for his endlessly varied gold cuffs.
In Europe, many houses have given us gold jewelry that sets the highest standard for excellence, pieces that were highly sought after when they were made and continue to be so.
Numerous designs from Cartier are homages to gold. There are the classic Trinity rings, necklaces and bracelets — trifectas of yellow, white and rose gold. As a testament to the power of love, consider the endurance of the Cartier Love bracelet.
Aldo Cipullo, Cartier’s top in-house designer from the late 1960s into the early ’70s, made history in 1969 with the Love bracelet. Cipullo frequently said that the Love bracelet was born of a sleepless night contemplating a love affair gone wrong and his realization that “the only remnants he possessed of the romance were memories.” He distilled the urge to keep a loved one close into a slim 18-karat gold bangle.
BVLGARI and its coin jewelry, gemme nummarie, hit the jackpot when the line launched in the 1960s. The line has been perennially popular. BVLGARI coin jewelry features ancient Greek and Roman coins embedded in striking gold mounts, usually hung on thick link necklaces of varying lengths. In the 1970s, BVLGARI introduced the Tubogas line, most often made in yellow gold. The Tubogas watches are classics, and then there is the Serpenti, the house's outstanding snake-themed watches and bracelets.
A collection called Monete that incorporated the gold coins is one of several iconic BVLGARI lines that debuted in the 1970s and ’80s, catering to a new generation of empowered women. Just as designers like Halston and Yves Saint Laurent were popularizing fuss-free ready-to-wear fashion for women on the go, BVLGARI offered jewels to be lived in.
Since Van Cleef & Arpels opened its Place Vendôme doors in 1906, collection after collection of jewelry classics have enchanted the public. As predominantly expressed in a honeycomb of gold, there is the Ludo watch and accessories, circa the 1920s, and the golden Zip necklace, 1951, whose ingenious transformation of the traditional zipper was originally proposed by the Duchess of Windsor. Van Cleef's Alhambra, with its Moroccan motif, was introduced in 1968 and from the start its popularity pivoted on royalty and celebrity status. It remains one of VCA’s most popular and collected styles.
Mention must be made of Buccellati, whose name is synonymous with gold so finely spun that it suggests tapestry. The house’s many gold bracelets, typically embellished with a few or many diamonds, signified taste and distinction and are always in favor on the secondary market. Other important mid-20th-century houses known for their gold-themed jewelry include Hermès and Ilias Lalaounis.
Find a stunning collection of vintage and antique gold jewelry on 1stDibs.
These flowers will never wilt.
The classic ’60s design has become particularly popular among sporty types.
Day or night, the vintage jewels make a statement.
You know the French maison’s famous motif well. But why is this particular piece so in demand?
The tiny lovers inch closer together by the hour and minute until they finally embrace on a world-famous bridge.
Watchmakers have tucked their movements into all manner of precious baubles, from lapel pins to cocktail rings. The result is dazzling, wearable art that will get you to the party on time.
With more than 100 carats of diamonds, this vintage stunner converts into different styles, making it as versatile as it is breathtaking.
The lucky-charm style has been around for more than 50 years, and British royals are still drawn to it.