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 Italy

Late 20th Century Italian Contemporary Brooches

Van Cleef & Arpels Bird Lapel Pin

Vintage 1970s Italian Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Onyx & Diamond Sautoir Necklace

20th Century Italian Drop Earrings

Italy Van Cleef & Arpels Carved Coral Drop Clip-on Earrings with Diamond, 18K

Vintage 1960s Italian Cocktail Rings

Van Cleef & Arpels Cabochon Burma Sapphire 7.32 cts

Vintage 1960s Italian Clip-on Earrings

Van Cleef & Arpels Carved Crystal and Diamond Earrings clip-on

2010s Italian Aesthetic Movement Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Chalcedony 18k White Gold Pendant Necklace

2010s Italian Aesthetic Movement Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Mother of Pearl 18k Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace

Vintage 1980s French Link Bracelets

Van Cleef & Arpels Coral Gold Vintage Bracelet French Estate Jewelry

2010s Italian Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Obsidian Diamond 18k Rose Gold 2023 Holiday

2010s Italian Pendant Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Obsidian DIamond 18k Rose Gold 2023 Holiday

Vintage 1960s French Link Bracelets

Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Bracelet Gold Coral Gemstones French Estate Jewelry

2010s Italian Aesthetic Movement Charm Bracelets

Van Cleef & Arpels Lucky Spring 5 Motif Multi Gemstone 18K Rose Gold Charm Brace

Vintage 1960s Italian Engagement Rings

Van Cleef & Arpels Modernist Vintage 18K Gold Diamond Ring

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Cufflinks

Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold Rope Onyx Cufflinks

Late 20th Century Italian Link Bracelets

Tiffany & Co. 18k Gold Curb Link Bracelet

Vintage 1950s Italian Cufflinks

VCA Large Flip Cufflinks

16th Century Old Masters Paintings

Dance Putti Van Cleve Paint Oil on table 16th Century Flemish Old master Belgium, 1550-1690

20th Century Italian Modern Link Necklaces

Italian Chunky Fancy Link Statement Necklace

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Modern Bracelets

Italian Turquoise 18K Yellow Gold Link Bracelet

Vintage 1970s Italian Choker Necklaces

A Vintage Mid Century Italian Tubogas 14k Gold Necklace

20th Century Italian Beaded Bracelets

Italian Blue Turquoise White Diamond Yellow Gold Pelouse Bracelet

Vintage 1970s Italian Modern Link Necklaces

Italian Oval Double Graduated Chunky 14K Yellow Gold Link Statement Necklace

Early 2000s Italian Modern Beaded Necklaces

Chiampesan Italian 18 Karat Yellow Gold Solid Chunky Bead Link Necklace

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Link Necklaces

Italian 14K Yellow Gold 9.50MM Curb Chunky Link Statement Necklace 18 Inches

20th Century Italian Modern Beaded Necklaces

Fope Italian Chunky Tubular Priofili 18K Gold 83.80 gr. Woven Necklace

Vintage 1980s Italian Modern Link Bracelets

Italian 14 Karat Two-Tone Yellow and White Gold Chunky Oval Link Bracelet

Vintage 1960s Italian Posters

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly / Il Buono Il Brutto Il Cattivo

Vintage 1960s Italian Posters

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly / Il Buono Il Brutto Il Cattivo

Vintage 1960s Italian Posters

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly / Il Buono Il Brutto Il Cattivo

Vintage 1960s Italian Posters

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly / Il Buono Il Brutto Il Cattivo

20th Century Italian Modern Link Bracelets

14 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Cut Curb Link 3 Row Bracelet

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Band Rings

ZYDO Sapphire & Diamond Domed Stretch 18K White Gold Ring

Late 20th Century Italian Modern Brooches

Sabbadini Large Mystery Set Sapphire Diamond Flower Brooch Pin

20th Century Italian Couture

The Story of Jewelry 1st ED. 1973 by J. Anderson Hardcover Book

20th Century Italian Modern Cuff Bracelets

Oromalia 18K Rose Gold and Leather Cuff Bracelet

Antique 19th Century Italian Romantic Dangle Earrings

Pair 19th Century Carved Coral Rosebud and Leaf 14K Yellow Gold Earrings

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Pendant Necklaces

Damiani 18K White Gold Diamond Necklace

Vintage 1940s Italian Cluster Rings

Diamond Platinum Ring With Clusters of Diamonds

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Classic Vintage Gold Wrist Watch Coffee Table

Vintage 1960s Italian Retro Link Bracelets