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

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

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.

Van Cleef Sterling

Vintage 1970s French Modernist Link Bracelets

Van Cleef & Arpels 1970 Paris Bold Geometric Links Bracelet Solid .925 Sterling

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Table Clocks and Desk Clocks

Van Cleef & Arpels Paris 1932 Art Deco Mechanical Desk Clock Box Sterling Silver

20th Century French Retro Vanity Items

Van Cleef & Arpels Marguerite Flower Perfume Scent Bottle Original Pouch France

Vintage 1960s French Frames

VCA Paris Sterling Frame with Original Photograph

Vintage 1970s French Modern Wrist Watches

Original 1974 Alexis Barthelay Hand-Wound Movement Sterling Silver Watch

20th Century Clip-on Earrings

VCA Style Faux Invisibly Set Sapphire Crystal Costume Flower Clip-on Earrings

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Drop Earrings

Trifari AlfredPhilippe 1948-1954 RhodiumPlated Tassel Chain FrenchClip Earrings

Vintage 1930s American Baroque Revival Chain Necklaces

Trifari Alfred Philippe YellowGold HeavyChainTasselSautoir Textural DemiParure

People Also Browsed

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Brooches

Tiara Convertible En Tremblant Flower Diamond Brooch

Late 20th Century North American Contemporary Brooches

Tiffany Co Vintage Yellow Gold 4 Strand Rope Knotted Love Knot 1 Inch Brooch

Early 20th Century French Belle Époque More Jewelry

Belle Époque Diamond Tiara

Early 2000s French Structured Shoulder Bags

Chanel 2004 Vintage Small Rare Tweed Cream Beige Classic Flap Bag

Mid-20th Century Swiss Wrist Watches

Patek Philippe 2494J Calatrava Watch

Antique 1890s German Dinner Plates

Extensive Assembled Meissen Blue and White Bird Model Dinner Service, circa 1890

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Stud Earrings

Natural Oval 6 ct Turquoise Minimalist Stud Earrings in 18K Yellow Gold

21st Century and Contemporary French Link Necklaces

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Rock Crystal 20 Motif Necklace Very Rare

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Barware

French Art Déco Silver and Lacquer Champagne Serving Set with Case by Christofle

Vintage 1940s French Retro Boxes and Cases

Cartier 18 Karat Gold Rope Cigarette Case

21st Century and Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Handcrafted 14 Karat Yellow Gold Hammered Circle Pendant

Vintage 1970s Italian Modernist Cocktail Rings

Brutalist 1970's Sculptural Geometric Cocktail Ring In Solid 18Kt Yellow Gold

Antique 19th Century Pocket Watches

Antique Gold Silver Diamond Enamel Pocket Watch Pendant Necklace

2010s Italian Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Tiffany & Co. HardWear Large Double Link Rose Gold Pavé Diamond Pendant Necklace

2010s French Contemporary More Rings

Van Cleef & Arpels Pure Alhambra Ring 18 Karat White Gold, Mother of Pearl

Early 20th Century American Vanity Items

Antique Whiting & Davis Mesh Purse Bag

Recent Sales

Vintage 1940s American Art Nouveau Collectible Jewelry

Trifari Vintage Bracelet Moonstones on Vermeil Gold Gilt Sterling Silver, Alfred

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Vanity Items

Mellerio 1930s Minaudière Bag in 18 Carat Gold-Plated and Rubis

20th Century French Hoop Earrings

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Hoop Multicolor Gold Earrings

Vintage 1930s French Decorative Objects

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Studded Minaudière

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Retro Bracelets

Trifari, Alfred Philippe Des. Sterling Silver & Cabochon Bracelet, Vogue 1945

Vintage 1940s American Brooches

Sterling silver and coloured paste 'flower girl' brooch, Trifari, 1947 , USA

Vintage 1940s American Brooches

Sterling silver and colour paste 'bird of paradise' brooch, Trifari, 1940s, USA

Vintage 1940s American Brooches

Trfifari "Jelly Belly" Flower Brooch

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Boxes and Cases

Cartier Enamel Art Deco Hinged Rare Case Sapphire Closure Measuring 3.3 Inch

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Dunhill By Verger Frères 1935 Paris Art Deco Case In 18Kt Gold Vermeil On Silver

2010s Italian Miscellaneous

Montblanc Meisterstuck Solitaire Doue Silver Ballpoint Pen

Vintage 1930s French More Objets d'Art and Vertu

Van Cleef & Arpels Sterling Key Chain

Vintage 1940s American Boxes and Cases

1940s VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Gemset Sterling Silver Case

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Van Cleef & Arpels Women's Two-Tone Stainless Steel 18k Gold LA Collection Watch

21st Century and Contemporary Wrist Watches