Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry

Questions About Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry

• Is Van Cleef worth the investment?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024

  Many jewelry lovers believe that Van Cleef is worth the investment. One of the world’s foremost jewelry houses, Van Cleef & Arpels is particularly noted for its focus on technical virtuosity, craftsmanship and artistry, which has been evident since its beginning. Rather than create earrings, bracelets, necklaces and other adornments primarily for the aim of displaying wealth and opulence, Van Cleef & Arpels has always sought to produce jewelry that projects the wearer’s taste and style. Lately, attention among collectors and connoisseurs has centered on Van Cleef & Arpels’s high quality of workmanship as much as its glamor. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry and other jewelry on 1stDibs.

• How can I tell if my Van Cleef is real?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024

  To tell if your Van Cleef is real, first look for the maker's mark. Authentic pieces will feature a stamp that reads either VCA or Van Cleef & Arpels in the correct logo font. If your jewelry instead just reads "Van Cleef," it is unlikely to be genuine. Next, examine the details of your piece closely. Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry will usually be free of flaws, so if you notice soldering marks, stray glue marks or other imperfections, your piece is probably a knockoff. When in doubt, seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer. Explore a collection of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

• At what age is jewelry considered antique?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023

  Jewelry is considered antique once it is 100 years old. Pieces that are 20 to 99 years old are vintage. Contemporary is the term used to describe jewelry that is less than 20 years old. Explore a large selection of antique, vintage and contemporary jewelry from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.

• Who was Estelle Arpels?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024

  Estelle Arpels was the daughter of Salomon Arpels, a precious-stone dealer. In 1895, she married Alfred Van Cleef, whose father was a lapidary and diamond broker. The following year, Alfred went into business with Estelle’s father, Salomon. After Salomon died, Estelle’s brothers Charles and Julien came on board, and in 1906, the trio established Van Cleef & Arpels jewelers on Paris’s Place Vendôme. Today, Van Cleef & Arpels is one of the world’s foremost jewelry houses, particularly noted for a focus on technical virtuosity, craftsmanship and artistry. Shop a wide range of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

• Are there fake Van Cleef pieces?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024

  Yes, there are fake Van Cleef pieces. Counterfeiters will copy virtually any type of luxury goods that are popular among collectors. As one of the foremost jewelry houses in the world, Van Cleef & Arpels can be an attractive target. Fortunately, buying from authorized dealers and trusted online platforms can reduce the risk of purchasing fakes. If you're unsure whether a particular piece is real, a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert can assist you. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry from some of the world's top sellers.

• 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.

• Is VCA jewelry worth it?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024

  Yes, many people feel that VCA jewelry is worth it. One of the world's foremost jewelry houses, Van Cleef & Arpels is particularly noted for its focus on technical virtuosity, craftsmanship and artistry. Van Cleef & Arpels produces jewelry that projects the wearer's taste and style and is carefully made to stand the test of time. 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. Explore a variety of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

• Is VCA real gold?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023

  Yes, VCA uses real gold. 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 wealth and opulence, Van Cleef & Arpels sought to produce jewelry in 18-karat gold, yellow gold and more that projected the wearer’s taste and style. Shop a range 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 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 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 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.

• 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.

• 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 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.

• 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.

• Is Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry made of gold?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023

  Yes, 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.

• 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.

• Can you wear Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry every day?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023

  Yes, 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.