Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
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 Arpel. 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.
21st Century and Contemporary French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1980s American Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
18k Gold, Rose Gold
20th Century French Modern Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Yellow Gold
1980s Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1960s Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Coral, Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Pla...
21st Century and Contemporary French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1960s French Art Deco Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Chrysophrase, Diamond, 18k Gold
1970s French Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Turquoise, White Gold
2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Carnelian, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1970s French Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Yellow Gold
2010s Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Yellow Gold
2010s Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, White Gold
1980s French Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Emerald, Yellow Gold
1990s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Chrysophrase
Early 2000s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1960s American Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Modernist Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Chalcedony, 18k Gold, White Gold
1990s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, 18k Gold
2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Late 20th Century European Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Jade, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Unknown Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
White Gold
2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Chalcedony, Pearl, White Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Artist Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Yellow Gold
2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Yellow Gold
1980s French Contemporary Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
20th Century French Modern Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Pearl, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
18k Gold, Rose Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Yellow Gold
1960s Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1980s Contemporary Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Yellow Gold
1990s Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Sapphire
21st Century and Contemporary French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Malachite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
1950s Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry
Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry & watches for sale on 1stDibs.
Creators Similar to Van Cleef & Arpels
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023What 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Van 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023The 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022In 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023Yes, Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry is usually made of gold. Specifically, the French luxury jewelry house typically makes necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings and other pieces out of 18-karat yellow, white or rose gold. Find a selection of Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023The 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023Yes, you can wear Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry every day, provided you aren’t engaging in any activities that might damage your accessories. Take off your jewelry whenever you are exercising or performing work-related duties that could expose it to chemicals or otherwise result in physical damage. On 1stDibs, find a selection of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Van 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry is 18-karat gold, not 14-karat. The luxury jewelry designer makes necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings and cufflinks in 18-karat white, gold and rose gold. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry.
- What is the Van Cleef symbol?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The 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.
- Are Van Cleef watches worth it?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Deciding 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023What 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Van 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023No, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023No, most experts say you shouldn't wear Van Cleef & Arpels mother-of-pearl jewelry or any other fine jewelry in the shower. Although water may not damage a piece, chemicals in soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner and other toiletries may harm mother-of-pearl and precious metals. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry.
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