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

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 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

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.

Van Cleef Gray

20th Century Unknown Clutches

Designer Rare Van Cleef Arpels Style Jeweled Bag Clutch

20th Century Hoop Earrings

Van Cleef & Arpels Mabe Pearl Hoop Earrings, 18k

Vintage 1980s French Clip-on Earrings

Van Cleef & Arpels Blooming Diamond Cluster Stud Earrings

21st Century and Contemporary French Artist Chain Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels "Magic " MOP and Chalcedony 16 motif Necklace

21st Century and Contemporary French Artist Wrist Watches

Van Cleef & Arpels "Papillon" Mother of Pearl and Diamond Wristwatch

1990s Cluster Rings

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Pure Alhambra Grey Mother-of-Pearl Ring

21st Century and Contemporary French Contemporary Chain Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Lucky Alhambra 12 Motifs Long Gold Necklace

2010s French Clip-on Earrings

Van Cleef And Arpels PURE Alhambra Mother Of Pearl Diamonds Earrings

1990s French Wrist Watches

Van Cleef and Arpels Steel Gold Lady Pierre Arpels Collection Watch

20th Century French Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Clématite Flower Diamond Grey Mother of Pearl Gold Pin Brooch

Vintage 1960s French Modern Cufflinks

VCA Van Cleef & Arpels Georges Lenfant Lapis Lazuli Yellow Gold Cufflinks 1960s

Late 20th Century French Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond and Mother of Pearl Clematis Flower Brooch in 18kyg

2010s French Cocktail Rings

Magic Alhambra Gray Mother of Pearl Ring

Early 2000s Books

Van Cleef & Arpels Reflections of Eternity 1st Edition 2006

Antique 1810s Dutch Other Maps

Curaçao map - C. van Baarsel en zoon

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Print of a Native Aboriginal of Van Dieman's Land, Australia, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Print of a Native Aboriginal Woman of Van Diemen's Land, Australia, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Print of an Interior in Nootka Channel, Canada, from Cook Travels, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Print of a Native Maori from New Zealand from Capt. Cooks Travels, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Old Print from Capt. Cooks Travels with Boats and a Ship in the South Sea, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Copper Plate Engraving Depicting Natives of Tahiti Dancing, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Print Depicting a Man of New Caledonia, from Capt. Cook Travels, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Print of Three Whirlwinds and a Ship off the Coast of New Zealand, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Print of a Woman of the Island of Tanna, New Hebrides, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Antique Print of a Man of the Island of Tanna, New Hebrides, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Capt. Cook Aiming His Gun Near Islands of the New Hebrides, Vanuatu, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Ceremony for the Son of the King in the Village of Mua on Tongatapu, Tonga, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Old Print of Captain Cook Witnessing a Human Sacrifice, in a Morai, Tahiti, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Prints

Old Print of a Boxing Fight Between Two Natives of Hapaee, Tonga Islands, 1803

Antique 19th Century Prints

Antique Print of a Winter House in Kamchatka in Russia, by Cook, 1803

Antique 19th Century Prints

Antique Engraving of the Dead Chief of Tahiti Island in the Pacific, 1803

Antique Early 19th Century Dutch Prints

View of Tanna Island: A Glimpse into Vanuatu from Cook's Voyages, 1803

Antique Early 1800s Maps

Antique Print of Oedidee, a Native from Bora Bora, 1803

Antique 19th Century Prints

Antique Print of the Landing at Malakula Island, Vanuatu, by Cook, 1803

Antique 19th Century Prints

Antique Print of the Landing at Tanna Island by Cook, 1803

Antique Early 19th Century Dutch Prints

Antique Print of a Night Dance by Women from Hapaee by Cook, 1803

Antique Early 19th Century Dutch Prints

Antique Print of a Night Dance by Men from Hapaee by Cook, 1803

21st Century and Contemporary Books

Made for Maharajas A Design Diary of Princely India Book by Amin Jaffer

1990s American Cocktail Dresses

Crane Day Hand Weaver 1990s Ombre Cocktail Poncho

1920s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Rene Sim Lacaze
'Atelier, Paris Street Scene' Impressionist oil on board c1930's, 1930

Barnaby Barford
'Tower of Babel' Sculpture No. 0026, 9 New Bond Street W1S 3SW, 2015

Klauber
View of the Island Tahiti by J.S. Klauber - Etching / engraving - 18th Century, 1795