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

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.

Question 19

How do I authenticate my Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra?

Accepted Answer

To authenticate Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry, check for stamps. Authentic pieces will display either VCA or Van Cleef & Arpels plus a serial number, a metal hallmark and a trademark. Shop a collection of Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What is the red stone in Van Cleef and Arpels?

Accepted Answer

In Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry, the red stone is usually Brazilian carnelian, a type of semiprecious gemstone that typically comes from Greece and Asia. The luxury jewelry brand uses the stone in it’s Bouton d’or and Alhambra collections. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry.

Van Cleef 1920s

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Cocktail Rings

Van Cleef & Arpels Art Deco Diamond Ring

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Cocktail Rings

Art Deco Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond & Ruby Ring

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Art Deco Lapel Watch Pin

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Bangles

Art Deco Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Emerald Onyx Bangle

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Bangles

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Emerald Onyx Platinum Art Deco Bangle Bracelet

21st Century and Contemporary French Contemporary Lever-Back Earrings

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Socrate Earrings, large model

Early 20th Century French Art Deco More Jewelry

Van Cleef & Arpels, France, Art Deco, 18 Karat Gold and Enamel Lipstick Holder

Vintage 1980s French Modern Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Paris Vintage Multi Gem Diamond Parrot of Splendor Brooch

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Charm Bracelets

Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Charm Bracelet

Vintage 1970s French Choker Necklaces

Dinh Van 18k Gold Diamond Choker Necklace

Mid-20th Century French Brooches

Art Deco Diamond and Platinum ‘Un Cercle’ Clip Brooch Circa 1931

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Boxes and Cases

Art Deco Charlton & Co Enamelled Cigarette Case, ca. 1920s

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Brooches

French Art Deco Diamond Ruby Rock Crystal Platinum 18KGold Tennis Racquet Brooch

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Brooches

Sasportas French Art Deco Buddha Pendant Amber Gemstone & Enamel 18k Yellow Gold

Early 20th Century European Egyptian Revival Brooches

Early 20th century Egyptian revival gold and enamel brooch

Vintage 1970s Italian Choker Necklaces

A Vintage Mid Century Italian Tubogas 14k Gold Necklace

Late 20th Century French Choker Necklaces

Péry et Fils Paris Diamond, Ruby and Emerald Necklace

Vintage 1980s Art Deco Engagement Rings

Art Deco Style 1 Carat Diamond & Sapphire Engagement Ring

1990s French Chain Bracelets

Louis Vuitton Yellow Gold Chain Bracelet with Locket Charm

Early 20th Century American Art Nouveau Pendant Necklaces

ArtNouveau Carved Abalone 18K WhiteGold HighRelief Asymmetric Flora&Bird Pendant

Late 20th Century Greek Contemporary Drop Earrings

Vourakis Vintage Diamond Pearl Drop Earrings

Vintage 1930s French Modernist Link Bracelets

Georges L'enfant Tri-Color 18 Karat Gold Wide Link Bracelet, Circa 1930

Vintage 1940s American Modern Pendant Necklaces

Trifari Philippe JellyBelly & PearlFlowers GoldPendants For Signed ChainNecklace

1930s French Dolman Sleeve Coats

A Rare Black Silk Velvet Evening Coat by Lucien Lelong Circa 1937

Vintage 1950s American Post-War Cocktail Rings

William Ruser 1950 Cocktail Ring 18kt Gold Platinum with Natural Pearl & Diamond

20th Century French Russian Empire Pendant Necklaces

Prince Troubetskoy Russian Armorial Crest 18k Gold Cigar Pendant Fob Tool

Vintage 1950s French Choker Necklaces

Tubogas 18k Gold Diamond Necklace Retro French Vintage Estate Jewelry

Vintage 1950s French Brooches

French Vintage Brooch 18k Gold Diamond Flower Pin Clip Estate Jewelry

Early 20th Century French Modernist Fashion Rings

Jean Després and Étienne Cournault French Modernist "Bijoux-Glace" Ring

Vintage 1960s French Brooches

French Vintage Brooch Wild Rose Clip Pin 18k Gold Estate Jewelry

Vintage 1970s French Brooches

French Vintage Brooch Pin Clip 18k Gold Emerald Estate Jewelry Signed J W

Antique Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Wrist Watches

Ferdinand Verger Freres Platinum Tonneau Art Deco Art Nouveau Watch with Diamond

Antique 1820s British Early Victorian Brooches

Victorian 1837 Mughal Tutti Frutti Brooch In 17Kt Gold With Carved Gemstones

20th Century French Contemporary Brooches

1920s Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Platinum Flower Petal Motif Brooch

20th Century French Art Deco Link Bracelets

1920's Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Platinum Bracelet.

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Tennis Bracelets

Van Cleef & Arpels Paris 1920's Art Deco Emerald Diamond Platinum Bracelet

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco More Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels GIA Natural Pearl Necklace

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Boxes and Cases

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS 18K Gold Art Deco Cigarette Case

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Brooches

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Art Deco Sapphire Diamond Platinum Jabot Pin

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Bangles