Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

French

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.

Creator: Van Cleef & Arpels

Van Cleef & Arpel Velvet Jewellery Box for a Ring, 1990.

$189

Van Cleef & Arpel Velvet Jewellery Box for a Ring, 1990.

By Van Cleef & Arpels

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Van Cleef & Arpel velvet jewellery box for a ring, 1990. Velvet jewellery box for a ring by Van Cleef & Arpel, presented in its cardboard box, circa 1990. H: 8.5 cm, W: 10 cm, D: 10...

Category

20th Century French Modern Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Velvet, Wood, Paper

Elegant Gold and Diamond Compact by Van Cleef & Arpels, Circa 1935-40

$2,800

Elegant Gold and Diamond Compact by Van Cleef & Arpels, Circa 1935-40

By Van Cleef & Arpels

Located in Miami, US

This exquisite compact, crafted by the renowned Maison Van Cleef & Arpels, exemplifies the artistry and sophistication of the late Art Deco period. Rectangular in shape, the compact ...

Category

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Gold

Van Cleef & Arpel Velvet Jewellery Box for a Bracelet, 1990.

$213

Van Cleef & Arpel Velvet Jewellery Box for a Bracelet, 1990.

By Van Cleef & Arpels

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Van Cleef & Arpel velvet jewellery box for a bracelet, 1990. Velvet jewellery box for a bracelet by jeweller Van Cleef & Arpel, presented in its cardboard box, circa 1990. H: 6.5 cm...

Category

20th Century French Modern Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Wood, Paper

Van Cleef & Arpel Velvet Jewellery Box for a Watch, 1990.

$260

Van Cleef & Arpel Velvet Jewellery Box for a Watch, 1990.

By Van Cleef & Arpels

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Van Cleef & Arpel velvet jewellery box for a watch, 1990. Velvet jewellery box for a watch by jeweller Van Cleef & Arpel, presented in its cardboard box, circa 1990. H: 10 cm, W: 13...

Category

20th Century French Modern Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Velvet, Wood, Paper

Art Deco Sterling Silver Compact and Card Case

$375

H 0.32 in W 3.5 in D 2.5 in

Art Deco Sterling Silver Compact and Card Case

Located in Pasadena, CA

This is a beautifully crafted Art Deco period Sterling Silver Lady's Compact or necessaire. This stunning engraved and monogrammed compact opens to reveal a sterling silver interior with fittings for two different types of coins and a covered powder dispenser...

Category

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Sterling Silver

19th Century Rosewood Dressing/Jewellery Box

$793

H 6.3 in W 11.82 in D 9.06 in

19th Century Rosewood Dressing/Jewellery Box

Located in Chelmsford, Essex

Victorian Rosewood Dressing table box with Mother of pearl car-touché to the centre of the lid, the lid does have age related shrinkage. To the inside of the lid it has a blue velvet...

Category

Late 19th Century European Victorian Antique Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Rosewood

Highclere Castle Jewellery Box

$245,904

H 20.87 in W 21.07 in D 27.56 in

Highclere Castle Jewellery Box

By LINLEY London

Located in London, GB

Over the years, British design company Linley has developed expertise in creating scaled versions of famous architectural buildings including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Royal Albert Hall and the Royal Opera House. In this instance, Highclere Castle...

Category

2010s British Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Maple

1920s Sterling Silver and Enamel Compact

$1,769

H 0.4 in Dm 2 in

1920s Sterling Silver and Enamel Compact

By A&J Zimmerman Ltd.

Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne

An exceptional, fine and impressive antique George V English sterling silver and pink enamel compact; an addition to our ornamental silverware collection This exceptional antique George V sterling silver and enamel compact has a circular form with a swept lower portion. The anterior surface is embellished with a pink guilloche enamel panel which reflects a wavy concentric ring design, emanating from the centre of the cover. The sides and underside of this impressive compact are plain and unembellished. This antique compact opens to reveal the original gilding and integrated mirror. Condition This antique pink enamel...

Category

20th Century English Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver, Enamel

Antique Victorian quality rosewood jewellery box

$649

H 4.93 in W 11.82 in D 8.67 in

Antique Victorian quality rosewood jewellery box

Located in Ipswich, GB

Antique Victorian quality rosewood jewellery box having a quality antique Victorian rosewood jewellery box with a lift up lid opening to...

Category

19th Century Victorian Antique Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Rosewood

French Art Deco Silver, Enamel, Coral & Diamond Compact Box By Augusta Peyroula

$1,497

H 0.63 in W 2.96 in D 1.74 in

French Art Deco Silver, Enamel, Coral & Diamond Compact Box By Augusta Peyroula

Located in Bristol, GB

ANTIQUE VANITY CASE/COMPACT A beautiful and good-quality piece made from silver, which has been enamelled on the exterior to imitate malachite. The clasp features a stylised carved...

Category

1920s French Art Deco Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Coral, Silver, Enamel

Art Deco Sterling Combination Coin Compact Card Case, American, circa 1920

$356Sale Price|40% Off

H 3.625 in W 2.5 in D 0.2 in

Art Deco Sterling Combination Coin Compact Card Case, American, circa 1920

Located in Toronto, Ontario

Art Deco sterling combination coin compact card or cigarette Case, American, circa 1920 by Webster Co. Rectangular cushion shape with hand chain attached. Opens to reveal half and fu...

Category

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Sterling Silver

Antique Victorian Quality Rosewood Jewellery Box

$676

H 4.73 in W 10.52 in D 7.68 in

Antique Victorian Quality Rosewood Jewellery Box

Located in Suffolk, GB

Antique Victorian quality rosewood jewellery box having a quality rosewood lift up lid opening to reveal a fitted blue velvet interior and a storage compartment with beautiful origin...

Category

1860s English Victorian Antique Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Rosewood

Cartier Art Deco Sterling Silver Compact Case by

$4,500

H 2.5 in W 2.5 in D 0.4 in

Cartier Art Deco Sterling Silver Compact Case by

By Cartier

Located in Atlanta, GA

A fine Cartier compact case in Art Deco style, circa 1930s. Sterling silver with gold gilt interior. The exterior features engraved line pattern that r...

Category

1930s French Art Deco Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Silver

Louis XVI-Style Gilt Bronze Jewellery Box

$568Sale Price|42% Off

H 1.58 in W 4.34 in D 3.75 in

Louis XVI-Style Gilt Bronze Jewellery Box

Located in LA CIOTAT, FR

A very pretty oval-shaped jewellery box in gilt bronze, with an exquisite central miniature of a young man serenading two young ladies with a lute. This Louis XVI style box is stunni...

Category

19th Century French Louis XVI Antique Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Bronze

Regency Rosewood Jewellery Work Box

$3,756

H 6 in W 11.25 in D 9 in

Regency Rosewood Jewellery Work Box

Located in Bedfordshire, GB

A Stunning Quality Late Regency Period, 19th Century, Rosewood And Brass Inlaid Work Box, Stationary Box, Or Jewellery Box, Having Exceptional Decoration Throughout With Hinged Lid Enclosing Document Flap And Removable Tray Of Various Compartments Concealing Large Storage Cavity Below, Flanked By Original Brass Handles, Raised On Original Carved, Turned Feet. Bearing A Makers Label For - "R.Dalton, The Bazaar, Soho Square...

Category

Early 19th Century English Regency Antique Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Rosewood

International Silver Vintage Velvet Heart Ring Box

$55

H 2 in W 4 in D 4.5 in

International Silver Vintage Velvet Heart Ring Box

By International Silver

Located in Chula Vista, CA

AMBIANIC presents Vintage Silver Plate Velvet Heart Ring Box 4.5 x 4 x 2 maker stamped International Silver Company Vintage unrestored condition marks and...

Category

Mid-20th Century Hong Kong Mid-Century Modern Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Silver Plate

Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry boxes for sale on 1stDibs.

Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry boxes are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of ultrasuede and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry boxes, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider jewelry boxes by Cartier, René Lalique, and Limoges. Prices for Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry boxes can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $275 and can go as high as $40,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $20,138.

Questions About Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Boxes

What is so special about Van Cleef & Arpels?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
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.
What country is Van Cleef & Arpels from?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
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.
Why is Van Cleef and Arpels so expensive?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
Why is Van Cleef and Arpels so popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
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.
Are Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier the same?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
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.
What is the flower of Van Cleef and Arpels?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
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.
Why is Van Cleef & Arpels so special?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
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.
Who wears Van Cleef & Arpels?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
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.
What is the red stone in Van Cleef and Arpels?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
When did Van Cleef & Arpels become popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
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.
What Van Cleef & Arpels stone is the most durable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
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.
How can you tell if a Van Cleef & Arpels is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024
To tell if a Van Cleef & Arpels is real, first look at the stamp. On real pieces, you will either see the full maker name, "Van Cleef & Arpels," or the abbreviation "VCA." Some replicas will only display the words "Van Cleef." Most pieces will also have a serial number, which you can cross-reference with information provided by trusted online resources.

Next, examine the details of your piece under a magnifying glass. Genuine Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry will be free of imperfections like soldering marks. If you spot any flaws, your jewelry is likely fake.

Because there are many convincing replicas, experts recommend having a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer assist you with authentication.

Shop a diverse assortment of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.
Does Van Cleef and Arpels have rose gold?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
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.
How do I authenticate my Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
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.
What is the most iconic Van Cleef & Arpels necklace?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024
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.
What does the Van Cleef & Arpels clover represent?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
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.
Is the Van Cleef & Arpels shape a cross?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 6, 2024
No, the Van Cleef & Arpels shape is not a cross. The iconic shape that has long dazzled Van Cleef jewelry lovers is actually a four-leaf clover, and it’s at the center of the house’s Alhambra collection. As a young man, Jacques Arpels, the nephew of one of the luxury house’s founders, was fascinated with the relationship that four-leaf clovers have 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.
What is the green stone on Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
The green stone on Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry varies by the piece. Often, the green gemstones are emeralds, but the luxury French jewelry house also creates pendants and other accessories that feature green malachite and tourmaline. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry.
How can you tell if a Van Cleef and Arpels Alhambra is fake?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
To tell if Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry is fake, first look for markings. Authentic pieces will have the brand name or "VCA," a serial number, the hallmark of the metal and a trademark symbol. In addition, look at the clasps. Signs of soldering or poor quality hardware may indicate a replica. Find a collection of Van Cleef and Arpels Alhambra jewelry on 1stDibs.
Can you wear a Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet in the shower?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
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.