The History About Van Cleef and Arpels

Van Cleef & Arpels is a luxury jewellery brand that has been synonymous with elegance, beauty, and innovation since its inception in 1896. Founded by Alfred Van Cleef and his brother-in-law, Salomon Arpels, the brand quickly gained a reputation for creating exquisite jewellery that was both beautiful and durable. Over the years, Van Cleef & Arpels has become one of the most prestigious and renowned jewellery brands in the world, known for its exceptional quality, innovative designs, and commitment to excellence. 

The brand’s early years were marked by a dedication to quality craftsmanship and a commitment to using only the finest materials. The company’s founders believed that jewellery should be both beautiful and durable, and they worked tirelessly to create pieces that would stand the test of time. The brand’s early collections were characterized by intricate designs, delicate work, and the use of precious stones and metals.

Throughout the 20th century, Van Cleef & Arpels continued to innovate and push the boundaries of jewellery design. In the 1920s, the brand introduced the “Mystery Setting,” a technique that allowed gemstones to be set without any visible prongs or claws, creating a seamless and almost magical effect. The brand also introduced the “Zipper Necklace,” a piece of jewellery that could be worn as either a necklace or a bracelet, and which featured a working zipper.

In the 1930s, Van Cleef & Arpels introduced the “Ludo Hexagone” collection, which featured a range of geometric designs that were inspired by the Art Deco movement. The brand’s “Ballerina” collection, which was introduced in the 1940s, featured delicate, three dimensional figurines that were crafted from precious metals and gemstones.

In the 1960s, the brand introduced the “Alhambra” collection, which featured a distinctive four-leaf clover motif and quickly became one of the brand’s most iconic designs. The collection was inspired by the Moorish palace in Granada, Spain, and the clover motif was meant to represent luck, health, happiness, and love. The collection has since become a symbol of the brand’s commitment to timeless elegance and innovative design.

Van Cleef & Arpels has also been known for its collaborations with other artists and designers. In the 1930s, the brand collaborated with the artist Jean Després to create a collection of Art Deco-inspired jewellery. In the 1950s and 1960s, the brand worked with the fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli to create a range of colourful and whimsical pieces.

Today, Van Cleef & Arpels remains one of the most prestigious and sought-after jewellery brands in the world. The brand’s collections continue to reflect the changing tastes and styles of the times, while also staying true to the brand’s rich history and legacy of craftsmanship. From the iconic Alhambra collection to the whimsical Charms collection, Van Cleef & Arpels has something for everyone.

Van Cleef & Arpels is a brand that has earned its place among the most prestigious and renowned jewellery brands in the world. With a rich history, a commitment to quality craftsmanship, and a dedication to innovation and excellence, it’s no wonder that the brand continues to captivate and inspire jewellery lovers around the world. Whether you’re looking for a classic piece of jewellery that will stand the test of time or a contemporary design that reflects the latest trends, Van Cleef & Arpels is a brand that you can trust to deliver exceptional quality and timeless elegance.