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Van Cleef & Arpels

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.

Average Sold Price
$9,229
Styles
Related Creators
Iconic Designs from Van Cleef & Arpels
Explore timeless pieces that have earned their place in history.
Vintage Alhambra Necklace
Vintage Alhambra Necklace
Vintage Alhambra Ring
Vintage Alhambra Ring
Vintage Alhambra Earrings
Vintage Alhambra Earrings
Vintage Alhambra Bracelet
Vintage Alhambra Bracelet
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif Onyx 18K Yellow Gold Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301067 Comes With Pouch Only Date 2012 RRP £4,200 Incl. Taxes/ €4,950 Incl. Taxes / $4,600 Excl. Taxes Model ARA41300 Serial Number JB****** Stones Onyx Weight Approximately 11...
Category

2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels

Materials

Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Malachite Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU AT-2596 Comes With Pouch Only Date 2018 RRP £ 2,990 Inc. taxes/$3,200 Excl taxes/3,500 € Inc taxes Model VCARO9VA00 Serial Number JA**** Metal 18k Yellow Gold Stones Malachite We...
Category

2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels

Materials

Malachite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Chrysoprase Diamond Yellow Gold Butterfly Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This fabulous Van Cleef & Arpels necklace from the timeless Flying Beauties collection is crafted in 18k yellow gold and features a butterfly pendant with green chrysoprase wings acc...
Category

1980s Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels

Materials

Chrysophrase, Diamond, Yellow Gold

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Socrate Earrings, large model
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This striking Van Cleef & Arpels pair of pierced earrings with French clips from the celebrated Socrate™ jewelry collection feature a delicate floral motif crafted in 18K white gold ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Contemporary Van Cleef & Arpels

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef & Arpels Ladies Art Deco Wristwatch Platinum Diamond Manual Wind
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Elegant and timeless jeweled Art Deco lady's watch created by Van Cleef & Arpels in the 1930s. The watch is made of platinum (tested & hallmarked) and encrusted with Old European cut...
Category

1930s French Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Mother of Pearl 18k Yellow Gold Pendant
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301048 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2020 RRP £2,590 Incl. Taxes / €3,050 Incl. Taxes / $ 2,830 Excluding taxes Model VCARA45900 Serial Number JB****** Metal 18k Yellow...
Category

2010s French Van Cleef & Arpels

Materials

Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Van Cleef & Arpels Ring Pure Alhambra Shell 18ct Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, GB
This Van Cleef & Arpels Pure Alhambra ring is a masterpiece, featuring the iconic Alhambra clover motif crafted from natural shell and set in 18ct yellow gold. The delicate design ra...
Category

2010s Van Cleef & Arpels

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Alhambra Ring in Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, GB
A beautiful vintage Van Cleef & Arpels chalcedony and diamond Alhambra ring set in 18k yellow gold. The ring is set with the iconic Alhambra design and connected to a yellow gold ba...
Category

20th Century Modern Van Cleef & Arpels

Materials

Chalcedony, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Browse all Jewelry from Van Cleef & Arpels
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Creators Similar to Van Cleef & Arpels

More Van Cleef & Arpels Designs
Vintage Alhambra Necklace
Vintage Alhambra Necklace
Average Price
$20,592
Number Available
34
Vintage Alhambra Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Styles
Artist
Van Cleef & Arpels had an immediate hit on its hands when the French luxury jewelry house introduced its Alhambra collection, which includes the charming and exquisitely crafted Vintage Alhambra necklace. Call it the result of the elegant design work that is typical of the house as well as a bit of good luck. “To be lucky, you must believe in luck.” This mantra was a favorite of Jacques Arpels (1914–2008) — the nephew of Estelle Arpels, who cofounded the maison with her husband, Alfred, ...
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Vintage Alhambra Ring
Vintage Alhambra Ring
Average Price
$6,376
Number Available
15
Vintage Alhambra Ring
By Van Cleef & Arpels
It’s not common that a motif as simple as a quatrefoil embellished with a beaded border can capture the hearts of fashionable clients around the world, but that’s precisely what happened with Van Cleef & Arpels’s signature Alhambra collection, which includes the Vintage Alhambra ring. In 1968, Jacques Arpels (1914–2008), nephew of the venerable French jewelry house’s cofounder Estelle Arpels, wanted to design bold ready-to-wear pieces for the modern working woman. Inspired by the notion ...
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Vintage Alhambra Earrings
Vintage Alhambra Earrings
Average Price
$10,501
Number Available
13
Vintage Alhambra Earrings
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Sketches of four-leaf clovers litter the archives of French luxury jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels (est. 1896), some of which date back to the early 1900s, and the brand’s beloved Vintage Alhambra earrings celebrate the quatrefoil-shaped multicultural motif that has long characterized the maison’s most popular collection. “To be lucky, you must believe in luck,” Jacques Arpels (1914–2008), nephew of Van Cleef & Arpels cofounder Estelle Arpels, liked to say. Jacques sought four-leaf ...
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Vintage Alhambra Bracelet
Vintage Alhambra Bracelet
Average Price
$10,490
Number Available
9
Vintage Alhambra Bracelet
By Van Cleef & Arpels
With its storied talismanic power, the quatrefoil — a clover-like pattern with roots in Moorish architecture — has become a status symbol in luxury jewelry, appearing in the collections of Cartier, Chopard, Louis Vuitton and more. But there’s one brand with which the motif is practically synonymous, thanks in particular to the role that the symbol plays in accessories such as the widely beloved Vintage Alhambra bracelet. Since 1968, Van Cleef & Arpels (est. 1896) has been celebrated for t...
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Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry & watches for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a range of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry & watches available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While looking for the most stylish antique or vintage Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Van Cleef & Arpels diamond jewelry & watches, from our inventory of 1,066, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look. We have 1,513 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider jewelry & watches by Boucheron, Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co., and Andre Vassort. Prices for Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry & watches can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $650 and tops out at $3,600,000, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $17,579.
Questions About Van Cleef & Arpels
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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