Question 1

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 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

How can I tell if my Van Cleef is real?

Accepted Answer

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.

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

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 7

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 8

Is Van Cleef worth the investment?

Accepted Answer

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.

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

Are there fake Van Cleef pieces?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

Is the Van Cleef & Arpels shape a cross?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Cartier And Van Cleef

Late 20th Century American Pendant Necklaces

Cartier Vintage Zodiac Libra Pendant in 18ct Yellow Gold Circa 1970

1990s French Scarves

Loris Azzaro Paris Silk Scarf 1980s

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Drop Earrings

Trifari AlfredPhilippe 1948-1954 RhodiumPlated Tassel Chain FrenchClip Earrings

Mid-20th Century French Retro Brooches

Sasportas Sapphire Citrine Diamond Comet Clip Brooch, circa 1940s

Mid-20th Century French Pendant Necklaces

Georges Lenfant for Cartier Vintage Jumbo Zodiac Gemini Pendant in Yellow Gold

Vintage 1960s French Retro Brooches

Citrine and Diamond Retro Leaf Brooch, Sasportas, France, 1960s

20th Century Art Deco Tennis Bracelets

Charles Holl Art Deco Sapphire and Diamond Bracelet

Vintage 1970s French Cufflinks

Vintage Hermès Wood And Gold Cufflinks, Circa 1970

Vintage 1960s American Brooches

An amethyst glass cabuchon 'flower' brooch, and earrings, Marcel Boucher, 1960s.

Early 2000s American Contemporary Brooches

Oscar Heyman Sapphire Diamond Pansy Brooch 18 Karat

Vintage 1970s French Modern Wrist Watches

Original 1974 Alexis Barthelay Hand-Wound Movement Sterling Silver Watch

Vintage 1970s French Modern Wrist Watches

1972 Alexis Barthelay Hand-Wound Movement Elliptical Sterling Silver Watch

Vintage 1940s Art Deco Brooches

Vintage Crown Trifari Moonstone Leaf Brooch 1940s

Mid-20th Century French Retro Retro Bracelets

French Retro Triangular "Tubogas" Bracelet

Vintage 1970s French Modern Wrist Watches

Original 1970s Alexis Barthelay Manual-Winding Movement Chain Silver Watch

Vintage 1970s French Modern Wrist Watches

Original 1970s Alexis Barthelay Manual-Winding Movement Chain Silver Watch

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Tennis Bracelets

Oscar Heyman Fancy Color Sapphire Bracelet, 30.57 carats

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings

Louis Feron Citrine Ruby Ring 60s Vintage Band 18k Yellow Gold Sz 8.5 Jewelry

1980s Photorealist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Philippe DeloisonSketch for a jewel set - necklace and earrings - Van Cleef Bulgari Cartier 1985

1980s Photorealist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Philippe DeloisonSketch for a jewel set - necklace and earrings - Van Cleef Bulgari Cartier 1985

1980s Photorealist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Philippe DeloisonSketch for a jewel set - necklace and earrings - Van Cleef Bulgari Cartier 1985

Vintage 1930s American Baroque Revival Chain Necklaces

Trifari 1930s Philippe YellowGold HeavyChain Tassel Sautoir Textural Demi Parure

Early 20th Century European Egyptian Revival Brooches

Early 20th century Egyptian revival gold and enamel brooch

Vintage 1940s American Modern Pendant Necklaces

Trifari Philippe1940s JellyBelly & PearlFlowers GoldPendants SignedChainNecklace

21st Century and Contemporary French Anklets

Van Cleef & Arpels GIA Cert Round Diamond 0.33ct E VVS Platinum Solitaire Ring

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Sasportas 1925 Paris Art Deco Buddha Pendant 18Kt Diamonds Lapis and Malachite

Vintage 1940s Brooches

Vintage Crown Trifari Cabochon Turquoise Brooch and Earrings 1940s

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Brooches

Sasportas French Art Deco Buddha Pendant Amber Gemstone & Enamel 18k Yellow Gold

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Trifari 1940s Philippe 4PieceParure CrystalFloraMotif GoldNecklaceEarringsBrooch

Antique 19th Century European Victorian Collectible Jewelry

Victorian Rose Cut Garnets Bohemian Bangle Bracelet 19th Century

Vintage 1970s Clip-on Earrings

Vintage Trifari Black Cabochon Earrings 1970s

Antique 19th Century French French Provincial Religious Items

French Victorian Bridal Wedding Crown Handmade Tiara on Giltwood Console Stand

Vintage 1940s Clip-on Earrings

Vintage Crown Trifari by Alfred Philippe Jelly Belly Earrings 1940s

Vintage 1940s Brooches

Vintage Crown Trifari Art Deco Alfred Philippe Brooch 1940s

Vintage 1940s Clip-on Earrings

Vintage Crown Trifari Crystal Swirl Earrings 1940s

Antique 19th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Collectible Jewelry

Mid Century Gold Bracelet 18K 2 tone Italian Mesh Bracelet 1960s Gold Honeycomb

Vintage 1940s Stud Earrings

Vintage Crown Trifari Art Deco Wingback Earrings 1940s

Vintage 1970s French Modern Hoop Earrings

Cartier carved rock crystal “Door Knocker” earrings circa 1970

Antique 19th Century European Victorian Collectible Jewelry

19th century Victorian buckle bracelet yellow gold floral blue enamel bracelet

Vintage 1970s French Modernist Band Rings

Philippe Deloison
Sketch for a jewel set - necklace and earrings - Van Cleef Bulgari Cartier 1985

Philippe Deloison
Sketch for a jewel set - necklace and earrings - Van Cleef Bulgari Cartier 1985

Philippe Deloison
Sketch for a jewel set - necklace and earrings - Van Cleef Bulgari Cartier 1985

Greg Lotus
Through The Window - Lt ed. 8/25 - Mounted on Plexi