Question 1

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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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.

Question 17

What karat gold does Van Cleef use?

Accepted Answer

Van Cleef & Arpels typically uses 18-karat gold. This precious metal is roughly 75 percent pure gold and is the type most commonly used to produce luxury jewelry. You can find a selection of Van Cleef & Arpels gold jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Do celebrities wear Van Cleef & Arpels?

Accepted Answer

Yes, celebrities have been known to wear Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry. Over the years, many trendsetters have been photographed wearing the jewelry maker's pieces. They include Mariah Carey, Anne Hathaway, Cameron Diaz, Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Garner and Kate Middleton. Pieces from the Alhambra collection are especially popular with celebrities. Find a variety of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 19

Can you wear a Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet in the shower?

Accepted Answer

No, you generally can’t wear Van Cleef & Arpels bracelets in the shower. Because chemicals in soaps, shampoos and other toiletries can damage and discolor precious metals and gemstones, it’s wise not to wear any jewelry while you bathe. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of Van Cleef and Arpels bracelets.

Question 20

What is the most famous Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Although opinions may vary, the most famous Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry is arguably the Alhambra collection, which debuted in 1970. Jacques Arpels – the nephew of Estelle Arpels, who founded Van Cleef & Arpels with her husband, Alfred, in 1906 – liked to say, "To be lucky, you must believe in luck." This mantra is embodied in the four-leaf clover motif of the Alhambra collection, and it can be found in sketches in the house’s archives dating back to the 1910s. The quatrefoil shape also has architectural resonance, as it is found in Gothic and Renaissance structures and in such Moorish buildings as the Alhambra palace in Granada, Spain, which inspired the name of this famed Van Cleef & Arpels line. Explore a variety of Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry on 1stDibs.

Van Cleef Ballerina

Mid-20th Century French Brooches

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

2010s American Contemporary Engagement Rings

Oscar Heyman Platinum GIA Certified 6.22tcw Trilliant Diamond 'Ballerina' Ring

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Boxes and Cases

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

People Also Browsed

Vintage 1930s French Retro Vanity Items

Andre Schwob, Retro Gilded Metal and Sapphires Minaudiere, Boucheron Model, 1935

Antique 18th Century Italian Victorian More Jewelry

Archaeological Revival Gold Tiara

Mid-20th Century French Retro Clip-on Earrings

French, Convertible 'Double Clip', Diamond Floral Spray Brooch and Ear Clips

Early 20th Century American Art Nouveau Cocktail Rings

Art Nouveau Signed Durand & Co. Black Opal, Diamond, Ombre Enamel 18K Gold Ring

Late 20th Century American Artist Brooches

Harry Winston Diamond Brooch

Vintage 1920s European Boxes and Cases

Antique Purple Guilloché Enamel Amethyst Box

Vintage 1960s American Dangle Earrings

Van Cleef & Arpels Asymmetrical Coral & Turquoise Day & Night Earrings

Vintage 1970s French Art Deco Vanity Items

“YSL” Yves Saint Laurent Gold Plated Retro “Jungle” Cigarette Case

Mid-20th Century North American Art Deco Vanity Items

1950s Mid-Century Evans Wristlet Compact and Cigarette Case with Mother of Pearl

Antique 19th Century Victorian Brooches

Diamond Crescent and Flower Brooch, Victorian, ca. 1880s

Early 2000s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Christian Dior by John Galliano black silk strapless trained gown, fw 2008

20th Century American Modernist Vanity Items

14 Karat Yellow Gold, Tiffany & Co. Perfume Bottle

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Drop Necklaces

Victorian Diamond Platinum Pendant Necklace Antique Estate Jewelry

Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Brooches

Egyptian Revival Pharaoh Diamond Pearl Ruby Enamel Gold Brooch by Carlo Giuliano

Early 2000s Italian Evening Gowns

UNWORN Gucci by Tom Ford FW 2004 Black Silk & Tassle Evening Gown Dress 40

20th Century English Modern Necklace Enhancers

An early 20th century diamond-set tiara by Skinner & Co

Recent Sales

1990s Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Gold Ballerina Brooch

1990s Belgian Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Inspired Ballerina Sapphire Ruby Emerald Pendant Brooch

Vintage 1940s American Brooches

JOHN RUBEL CO. Turquoise, Ruby & Diamond Flower Brooch

Vintage 1940s Unknown Retro Cocktail Rings

Retro Synthetic Ruby and Diamond Swirl Volute Ring 14 Karat Gold

21st Century and Contemporary Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage 18k Yellow Gold 0.03 Ct Diamond Ballerina Brooch

Vintage 1940s American Link Bracelets

Important Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Bracelet

Vintage 1980s Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

1980's Van Cleef & Arpels 11.64 Carats Diamond 18 Karat Yellow Gold Earrings

Gold Diamond and Gemstone Dancer Brooch

Vintage 1940s American Retro Clip-on Earrings

John Rubel Retro Diamond and Tourmaline Earrings

Vintage 1950s French Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Yellow Gold Ballerina Pin Brooch

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Brooches

Coro Art Deco Pearl Studded Ballerina Brooch

2010s American Modern Cocktail Rings

Oscar Heyman 18 Karat Gold Ruby Heart Shaped 'Ballerina' Style Ring

French Brooches

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS. A gold and diamond ‘Ballerina’ brooch.

American Brooches

Exquisite Diamond ''Jiqua'' Pin by Van Cleef & Arpels

American Vanity Items

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS A Sapphire, Diamond and Gold Vanity

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Boxes and Cases

VAN CLEEF AND ARPELS Gold, Diamond Sapphire Powder Case

More Ways To Browse