Van Cleef & Arpels Sapphire and Diamond Half Hoop Earrings, 18k
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
A Van Cleef & Arpels Sapphire and Diamond Half Hoop Earrings made in 18k Yellow Gold.
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Diamond Pave Fluted Button Earrings, circa 1980s
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Creator: Van Cleef & Arpels, French Size: 1" x 0.75" Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Weight: 30.46 grams Period: 1980s Condition: Used - Previously owned, lightly worn, and in excellent c...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Fancy Yellow Diamond Hoop Earrings Regular price
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
These Van Cleef & Arpels double hoop earrings, created in the 1970s and pavé-set with over six carats of yellow diamonds and diamonds, all mounted in 18K gold.
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Diamond Large Door Knocker Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Winter Springs, FL
Few houses embody the poetry of French haute joaillerie like Van Cleef & Arpels. These exceptional earrings, sculpted in France, are a testament to the maison’s artistry—where bold f...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Heart Diamond Mother of Pearl Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33302273 Comes With Full Set (Box, Card, Receipt) Date 2022 RRP £6,400 Incl. Taxes / €7,550 Incl. Taxes / $7,250 Excl. Taxes Model VCARN5PQ00 Serial Number JC4061** Metal 18k Yel...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Invisible-Set Ruby and Diamond Earrings 18K Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Fairfield, CT
Van Cleef & Arpels Invisible-Set Ruby and Diamond Earrings 18K Yellow Gold These Van Cleef & Arpels earrings are made in 18K yellow gold and feature VCA's signature invisibl...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Diamond Pavé Cluster Earrings, 1980s
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
A timeless treasure from the 1980s, this pair of Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Diamond Pavé Cluster Earrings captures the Maison’s enduring love affair with florals.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Magic Alhambra Malachite Yellow Gold 3-Motif Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
These exquisite Van Cleef & Arpels earrings from the iconic Magic Alhambra collection feature a 3-motif design of beaded clovers crafted in 18k yellow gold and set with green malachi...
Malachite, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Yellow Gold Clip On Earrings with 12X5.54mm Onyx
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Designer: Van Cleef & Arpels Detailed Description: Van Cleef & Arpels Embrace a bold statement with these vintage Van Cleef & Arpels clip-on earrings.
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels Vintage Alhambra earrings gold and Mother-of-pearl
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, England
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra earrings in 18K yellow gold with white mother-of-pearl.
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold
Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Coral and Diamond Hoop Earrings in 18k Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, England
A highly unique vintage pair of Van Cleef & Arpels coral and diamond clip on hoop earrings set in 18k yellow gold.
Coral, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Yellow Gold Swirl Lever-Back Earrings, France
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Houston, TX
Van Cleef & Arpels earrings in 18K yellow gold with a swirl pattern.
18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Diamond Demi Hoop Button Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Size: Approximately 0.8 x 0.5 inches Creator: Van Cleef & Arpels Metal: 18K yellow gold Weight: Approximate 15.6 grams Period: Vintage, 1970s France These Van Cleef & Arpel...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K White Gold Vintage Alhambra Diamond Pave Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
These Vintage Alhambra earrings are a refined expression of timeless elegance, combining exceptional diamond quality with thoughtful, versatile craftsmanship. Crafted in 18K white go...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Mother Of Pearl Bracelet Earrings 18K Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Aventura, FL
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra earrings, 18K yellow gold, onyx.
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Diamond Pave 18 Karat Rose Gold Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Tysons, VA
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra earrings crafted in luxurious 18K rose gold and accented with brilliant pavé-set natural diamonds.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels Vintage 18 Karat Yellow White Rose Gold Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, GB
A pair of Van Cleef and Arpels vintage 18 karat yellow white and rose gold earrings.
Rose Gold, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Folie des Pres Broderie Diamond Gold Earrings & Ring Set
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This impressive Van Cleef & Arpels clip-on earrings and ring Demi-Parure set from the floral Folie des Près is crafted in 18k white gold and set round pink sapphires, marquise ts...
Diamond, Garnet, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Lapis & Diamond "Bombe" Clip On Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Lapis & Diamond "Bombe" Clip On Earrings In 18k Yellow Gold.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 1.60 Carat Diamond and 18K Yellow Gold Button Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Chevy Chase, MD
The earrings are clip-on, posts can be added. The earrings are stamped with Van Cleef & Arpels maker’s mark, hallmark for 18 karat gold.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Magic Alhambra Lapis Lazuli 18k 2 Motif Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
These gorgeous rare collectible vintage Van Cleef & Arpels 2-motif drop earrings from the iconic Magic Alhambra collection are crafted in 18k yellow gold and feature lucky clover...
Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Yellow Gold 1960's Turquoise Pearl Drop Dangle Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Dating from the 60’s, these Turquoise & Pearl Drop earrings channel the heady glamour of the decade. Designed in 18k gold, the earrings are crafted as hoops articulated rope finish, ...
Pearl, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Coral & Diamond "Boutonnière" Clip On Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Coral And Diamond Boutonnière Clip On Earrings In 18k Yellow Gold.
Coral, Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Orange Coral Yellow Gold Rose De Noël Diamond Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
These elegant Van Cleef & Arpels Rose de Noël earrings are crafted in 18K yellow gold and feature beautifully carved petals in a soft pinkish-orange coral, presented in the sought-af...
Coral, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Carnelian Clip Back Earrings 18K Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Aventura, FL
Inspired by the clover leaf, these icons of luck are adorned with a border of golden beads. Details: Brand: Van Cleef & Arpels Model: VCARD40400 Style: Vintage Alhambra Earrings...
Carnelian, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 18 Karat Van Cleef & Arpels Elongated Hoop Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Designer: Signed Van Cleef and Arpels Period: Vintage Year: 1970s Material: 18k Yellow Gold Weight: 15.2 grams Dimensions: H33.2mm x W31mm / H1.3 in x W1.2 in Condition: Pristine Vi...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels, France chalcedony doorknockers
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels, France. Each earring is designed with a sculptural ribbed gold surmount suspending a circular carved chalcedony hoop.
Chalcedony, 18k Gold
1960s Van Cleef & Arpels Graduating Diamond Floral Earrings, 18k
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
An exceptional pair of Van Cleef & Arpels Floral Earrings from the 1960s made in 18k yellow gold.
Diamond, 18k Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Diamond Coral Tulips 18k White Gold Brooch Earrings Suite
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite rare authentic vintage Van Cleeff & Arpels floral suite consists of a pair of clip-on earrings and a matching brooch crafted in 18k white gold and set with natural ang...
Coral, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Malachite 3 Motifs 18K Yellow Gold Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33302105 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2024 RRP £10,300 Incl. Taxes / €12,100 Incl. Taxes / $12,300 Excl. Taxes Model VCARO2AG00 Serial Number JF6283** Metal 18k Yellow G...
Carnelian, Malachite, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1960s Van Cleef & Arpels French Flower Diamond Petal Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
1960s Van Cleef & Arpels French Flower Diamond Petal Earrings. Signed and numbered M39112. Diamond weight appx. 10.50 cts. 1.25 inches. Total Weight: 32.80 grams. SERVICE PAPER FRO...
Diamond, Gold
Vintage Van Cleef and Arpels 18 Karat Yellow Gold Lion Door Knocker Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Signed Van Cleef & Arpels Lion Door Knocker Earrings 18 Karat Yellow Gold 1.5 inches in length 48.2 grams in total c.1960s-70s Made in France
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Gold 0.70ct Diamond & Mother of Pearl Clip-On Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Southampton, PA
These classic Van Cleef & Arpels earrings exude vintage elegance.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$60,000Sale Price / item|20% Off
Van Cleef & Arpels 5.50 Carat E VVS1 Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Chicago, IL
An exceptional pair of Van Cleef & Arpels diamond earrings, crafted in 18K white gold and set with an extraordinary collection of high-color, high-clarity diamonds.
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Sweet Alhambra Blue Turquoise Butterfly Earrings Certificate
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
These gorgeous authentic Van Cleef & Arpels earrings from the iconic Pure Alhambra feature the classic butterfly design with beaded edges crafted in 18k white gold and set with b...
Turquoise, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 'Cosmos' Diamond and Emerald Earrings and Brooch
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels 'Cosmos' diamond and emerald earrings and brooch suite in 18k yellow gold.
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Mid-Century Van Cleef & Arpels coral and diamond crescent earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels, France, with maker’s mark for Pery et Fils.
Coral, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
Van Cleef Arpels Pure Alhambra Earrings Genuine VCA 18k YG Vintage Black Onyx
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Rare Van Cleef and Arpels Earrings CERTIFIED Vintage PURE Alhambra Collection Stud Earrings. 18k Yellow Gold with Black Onyx inlay.
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels Platinum and White Gold Cultured Pearl and Diamond Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Philadelphia, PA
These elegant Van Cleef & Arpels button earrings feature a pair of large, white cultured pearls partially surrounded by a cluster of brilliant marquise, pear shape, and round diamond...
Diamond, White Diamond, Cultured Pearl, White Gold, Platinum
Van Cleef & Arpels Folie Des Pres Diamond & Sapphire Flower Earrings in 18kwg
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Philadelphia, PA
These whimsical Van Cleef & Arpels (VCA) earrings feature a dazzling diamond pavé sphere at the top, from which dangle alternating floral motifs crafted from vibrant purple and pink ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef Arpels Sweet Alhambra Earrings Genuine VCA 18k YG Vintage Shell Studs
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Rare Van Cleef and Arpels Earrings Vintage Sweet Alhambra Collection Stud Earrings. 18k Yellow Gold with Mother of Pearl.
Pearl, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Paris Mid-century Ruby and Diamond Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Sculpted to frame the face in gold and touches of vivid red, these beautiful, stylized earrings are a classic mid-century Van Cleef & Arpels design.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Natural Sapphire Cabochon and Diamond Earrings, 18k
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
A pair of Van Cleef & Arpels Natural Sapphire Cabochon and Diamond Earrings made in 18k Yellow Gold.
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 1970 Paris Hoop Clip Earrings in 18Kt Gold 4.20Cts Diamonds
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Exceptional pair of clips-earrings designed by Van Cleef & Arpels, Gorgeous pieces made in Paris France by the house of Van Cleef & Arpels, back in the 1970's.
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Diamond vintage Alhambra single earring in 18k rose gold by Van Cleef and Arpels
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
One 18k rose gold diamond vintage Alhambra earring by Van Cleef and Arpels.
Diamond, Rose Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold 3.32 ct Diamond Star-Shape Clip-On Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA
The star earrings feature full-cut diamonds weighing a total of 3.32 carats Set in 18k gold, marked Van Cleef & Arpels, M37184, French hallmarks.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Two Butterfly Earrings in 18K Gold Round Marquise-Cut Diamond
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Aventura, FL
Details: Brand: Van Cleef & Arpels Model: VCARB82900 Style: Two Butterfly Earrings Diamond Style: Round and Marquise Cut Diamond Diamond: 70 stones, 1.67 carats Diamond Quality Grade...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Earrings Rose De Noel Pink Coral Diamonds 18 Kt Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Paris, FR
VAN CLEEF AND ARPELS Rose de Noel Legendary 18K yellow gold ear clips in the shape of blooming flowers, the five petals in 18K yellow gold are adorned with pink coral, the heart is s...
Coral, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Leaf Earrings with 5 Cts. Diamonds, 18K
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
A bold pair of Van Cleef & Arpels Leaf Earrings with 5 cts. Diamonds made in 18 Karat Yellow Gold.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Carved Crystal and Diamond Earrings clip-on
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
These Van Cleef & Arpels Carved Crystal and Diamond Earrings, created in Italy in 1960, are a testament to the brand's enduring legacy of elegance.
Crystal, Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels Cosmos Fancy Vivid Yellow Diamond Flower Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Philadelphia, PA
These Van Cleef & Arpels Cosmos earrings showcase a vibrant, four-leaf clover silhouette entirely pavé-set with brilliant round yellow diamonds, beautifully anchored by a single spar...
Diamond, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$12,900Sale Price|20% Off
Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Hoops
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Dallas, TX
Van Cleef & Arpels diamond hoops in 18K yellow gold. Stamped Van Cleef & Arpels 750.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra 4 motif Mother of Pearl 18K Gold Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
Rare Find & Investment SKU 77701554 Comes With Full set ( Box & Card) Date 2021 Model VCARD78900 Serial Number JA****** Metal 18k Yellow Gold Stones Mother of Pearl Weight Approxima...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpel Pair of Diamond Lapis Lazuli 18K Gold Hoop Earrings circa 1977
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Austin, TX
A sophisticated pair of vintage Van Cleef & Arpel clipped on earrings crafted in richly textured 18K yellow gold and accented with vibrant lapis lazuli and brilliant cut diamonds.
Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold
$99,900 / set
Van Cleef & Arpels 18k White Gold Diamond Dome Set
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Carat Weight: Earrings - Approx. 10.26 carats, Ring - Approx. 7.96 carats; 18.22 cts. total Metal: 18k White Gold Weight: 25.74 grams Creator: Van Cleef & Arpels Ring Size: 54 (Appro...
Diamond, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Pave Inside- out Hoop
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Pave Inside- out Hoop Ear clip Earrings In 18k White And Yellow Gold.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Mother of Pearl And Diamond Clip On Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Mother of Pearl And Diamond Clip On Earrings In 18 Yellow Gold.
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Quilted Bombe 18K Yellow Gold Earrings 1 1/8 Inches Long
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Very few fine jewelry houses evoke the romance and emotion of Van Cleef & Arpels. This pair of lovely, quilted 18k yellow gold earrings by the venerated maker, are bombe in form, and...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Lapis Lazuli Vintage Alhambra Ear Clip
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels Lapis Lazuli Vintage Alhambra Ear Clip Earrings In 18k Yellow Gold.
Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels 18KWG Invisible Set Ruby and Diamond Pont Neuf Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Crafted in 18k white gold, these Van Cleef & Arpels Pont Neuf half-hoop earrings showcase a striking grid of mystery-set rubies topped with brilliant baguette-cut diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
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.
In the United States, ear piercing didn’t really become popular until the 1950s and ‘60s, but our desire for a dazzling pair of vintage earrings has deeper roots than that. In fact, wearing earrings actually goes back thousands of years, and you can find many tangible connections between now and then in how we continue to talk about these treasured accessories.
Women wore ornamental earrings — studs and hoops at the very least — in Ancient Egypt, which is home to mines that are among the earliest sources of emeralds in the world. Emerald earrings are highly prized today, and their quality lies in their rich, saturated color. The highest-quality emeralds are green or bluish-green. Earrings worn by the affluent in early Roman civilizations were set with precious stones such as diamonds and pearls, and a clean-looking pop of pearl on the front of the lobe is as timeless as ever. Hoop earrings are imbued with symbolism and cultural significance for many, and on view in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Ancient Near Eastern Art Gallery is a pair of simple gold hoops from Mesopotamia dating to between 2600 and 2500 B.C.
Today, ear piercing is very popular all over the world, and, as a result, it is difficult to overstate how much everyone pines for a good pair of earrings — modernist drop earrings, glamorous Victorian hoops, geometrically complex chandelier earrings, you name it. Sure, jewelry trends and the fashion darlings of social media come and go, but earrings have a staying power that seems impenetrable: The still-strong love affair between British royals and Cartier earrings is more than a century old, glossy 1970s hoops from legacy houses such as Bulgari and Van Cleef & Arpels remain the statement makers they’ve always been and although people have been stacking earrings for many moons, the allure of an expertly mismatched stack of charms and studs still feels fresh and new.
While there is no shortage of modern earring designs to choose from, the classics, like coral earrings, Art Deco–style earrings and diamond drop earrings are still heavy hitters. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of antique, new and vintage earrings today.