When it comes to high-end jewelry, there are a few names that always come to mind: Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and of course, Van Cleef & Arpels. The French brand has been around for over a century, and has become renowned for its intricate designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Celebrities and royalty alike have been known to wear Van Cleef & Arpels pieces, further cementing the brand’s status as one of the most notable in the luxury jewelry world.
Van Cleef & Arpels Origins
Founded in 1906, Van Cleef & Arpels is a French luxury jewellery and watchmaking brand. It was founded by Alfred Van Cleef and his uncle Pierre Arpels. The brand is known for its innovative designs, particularly its Mysteries Clock and Alhambra necklaces. Van Cleef & Arpels has a long history of collaborating with artists, from painters to sculptors. Its flagship store is located on Place Vendôme in Paris. The brand also has stores in London, New York, Beverly Hills, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Van Cleef & Arpels Today
Van Cleef and Arpels is a name that is synonymous with luxury and style. The French jewelry house has been creating exquisite pieces for over a century, and its designs have graced the necks, wrists, and fingers of some of the most famous women in the world. Today, Van Cleef and Arpels is still one of the most respected names in the jewelry industry, and its pieces are highly sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. Whether you are looking for a timeless classic or a modern masterpiece, Van Cleef and Arpels is a brand that always delivers.
Awards & Accolades
Since its founding in 1906, Van Cleef & Arpels has been celebrated for its exquisite jewelry and timepieces. The house has garnered numerous awards and accolades over the years, cementing its place as one of the world’s leading jewelers. In 2010, Van Cleef & Arpels was named “Jeweler of the Year” by the prestigious Couture Council of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology. This honor is bestowed upon a brand that has made a significant contribution to the world of fashion and design. In 2012, Van Cleef & Arpels received the Gold License Award from The City of Paris, signifying the company’s status as a top tourist destination in the city. And in 2014, Van Cleef & Arpels was inducted into the New York Hall of Fame. These are just a few of the many accolades that Van Cleef & Arpels has received over the years. Each one is a testament to the house’s unparalleled craftsmanship and design excellence.
A Celebrity Love Affair
At the 83rd Academy Awards, Angelina Jolie walked the red carpet in a gown by Versace and jewelry by VCA . The simple, yet stunning dress allowed Jolie’s jewelry to take center stage. She wore a vintage diamond ring as her engagement ring, loaned to her by VCA . On her right hand, she wore a bracelet with over 400 diamonds set in platinum. And around her neck, she wore a diamond necklace with a pear-shaped pendant. The total value of Jolie’s jewelry was estimated to be over $2 million. It was a truly dazzling display that helped to solidify Jolie’s status as one of Hollywood’s most glamorous actresses.
At the 2018 Met Gala, Sarah Jessica Parker wore a show-stopping gown by Oscar de la Renta—and equilibrium earrings and a square alhambra ring by VCA . The earrings, from the high jewelry collection, feature 11 carats of pear-shaped diamonds that sway with every movement, creating a look that is both modern and timeless. The alhambra ring, with its signature quatrefoil motif, is a classic VCA design that has been worn by everyone from Audrey Hepburn to Jessica Chastain. Parker’s sophisticated jewelry choices perfectly complemented her elegant look, making for a truly stunning red carpet moment.
Nicole Kidman is known for her timeless style, and her choice of jewelry is no exception. For the majority of her red carpet appearances, she opts for understated elegance, favoriting classic brands like VCA However, she also isn’t afraid to experiment with more modern silhouettes and unique stones. Recently, she wore a pair of VCA statement earrings to the SAG Awards, which added a touch of glamour to her simple black dress. She has also been seen wearing the brand’s iconic Alhambra necklace, which is said to be one of her personal favorites. Whether she’s dressing up for a gala or keeping it casual for everyday wear, Nicole Kidman always looks chic in her VCA jewelry.
Notable Collections from Van Cleef & Arpels
Alhambra
This was a collection inspired by the Moorish architecture of the Alhambra palace in Granada, Spain. It featured beautiful designs made out of gold, diamonds, and emeralds.
Olympia
This was a collection inspired by the ancient Olympics. It featured beautiful designs made out of gold, diamonds, and rubies.
Snowflake
This was a winter-themed collection that featured delicate snowflake designs made out of diamonds and white gold.
Foli De Pres
This was a nature-inspired collection that featured leaves, branches, and flowers made out of diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds.
A Cheval
This was a collection of horse-themed jewelry that featured beautiful designs made out of diamonds, sapphires, and 18-karat gold.
Palmyre
This was a collection inspired by the palm trees of Morocco. It featured intricate designs made out of gold, diamonds, and rubies.
Van Cleef & Arpels remains legendary and timeless over 120 years after the first boutique opened its doors, securing an enduring reputation as one of the world’s finest jewelry houses. From the signature Alhambra motif to the luxe Frivole and Perlée collections, Van Cleef & Arpels will go down in history as one of the most iconic brands for its craftsmanship and elegance.
See our collection of VCA pieces. Be sure to come by our store, La Maison Yamron in Naples, Fl to see them in person.
