France — Van Cleef & Arpels

In 1896, newlyweds Estelle Arpels and Alfred Van Cleef had no idea their union would result in changing the image of luxury jewellery.

Estelle, the daughter of a precious stone wholesaler, was the perfect match for Alfred, the son of a diamond merchant. The two would soon embark on an adventure founded on prestige, perfection and glamour.

In 1906, Alfred and his brother-in-law Charles waited anxiously for the debut of the first Van Cleef & Arpels store on Place Vendôme in Paris, France.

Estelle’s other brothers Julien and Louis Arpels, who were expert gemologists, later joined to form a company of eloquence and integrity. Be it design, accounting or sales, each family member gave their all to make Van Cleef & Arpels a thriving business.

All the way across the Atlantic, Julien Arpels’ eldest son Claude unveiled a shop at 744 Fifth Avenue in New York, which now marks the American home of refined French style and inspiration since its opening in 1939.

From the very beginning, Van Cleef & Arpels has embraced nature. Pieces from the ‘40s mark a light and airy appeal, which is a theme that is still found in recent collections.

Far from ordinary, Van Cleef & Arpels gives ‘one-of-a-kind’ a new meaning. In its colourful Hawaii Collection inspired by The Garden of Eden, stunning necklaces can be turned into rings and ear clips!

The butterfly and dragonfly collection embraces fantasy and nature by bringing together diamonds with white mother-of-pearl, grenat tsavorites, pink sapphires, Japanese lacquer and yellow gold.

Motifs of cloverleaf and asymmetrical arrangements found in the Alhambra collection charm the hearts of both young and old.

The extraordinary craftsmanship and undeniable elegance that Van Cleef & Arpels exudes in each and every piece make every moment in your life special. Even celebrities dazzle their luxurious gowns with striking pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels.

Just as delicate as the art of dance, and as intricate and precise as a twirl or pirouette, are the cuts and craftsmanship of each precious stone.

www.vancleef-arpels.com