The Story of Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry

The story of Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry began in 1895, when Alfred Van Cleef married Estelle Arpels. Van Cleef grew up in the stone-cutting trade. His father had garnered a reputation for being able to change the cuts of flawed stones to increase their value. Arpels’ family was involved in the precious stone trade. By 1906, the couple started a business named Maison of Van Cleef & Arpels with Arpels' brothers.

In the 1920s, Van Cleef & Arpels released a line of jewelry that was clearly inspired by the desire for Asian and Egyptian goods. The artisans began using lapis lazuli and cornelian, which led to unusual pieces that quickly caught the eye of the public. This was also the time when the jewelers made stunning Art Deco pieces that would immortalize their names among jewelry connoisseurs.

In the 1930s, the second generation began coming into the business. By 1939, Claude Arpels made the international move and opened a store in New York City. As the fashionable desire for Art Deco’s straight lines and geometric designs began to wane, Van Cleef & Arpels adjusted to the shift by introducing new jewelry that featured romantic motifs and used plenty of yellow gold. Diamonds, sapphires and rubies became the stones of choice.

Chantilly-style lace jewelry came into existence in the 1940s. Floral designs took the 1950s by storm and Indian influences set the tone for pieces made in the 1970s. The 1980s were the decade for ribbons and bows. The jewelers celebrated the advent of the 2000s with the creation of the millennium clip and the launch of the high jewelry collection, which took its inspiration from William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

The 2010s brought museum pieces, accolades and an expansion into Asia. Today, the shopper has plenty of options when looking for exquisite jewelry pieces by Van Cleef & Arpels.

High Jewelry. The lines in this collection include Palais de la Chance, Les Jardins and the Midsummer Night’s Dream. Motifs include nature, a nod to Asian legends, flowers and whimsical fairy designs.

Jewelry. Men's jewelry features cufflinks and bracelets. Women’s between-the-finger-rings take hand adornment to a new level with paired nature displays of butterflies and flowers.

Bridal. Engagement and wedding rings as well as bridal sets make up this collection. Diamonds and unique designs make these pieces stand out.

Watches. Made for men and women, the Extraordinary Dials line demands attention. It features works of art on the small watch face scale. 

Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry is now also in the fragrance business with scents created for men and women. The emphasis of all products is on artisanship that is in keeping with the times but takes on a visionary edge. In some cases, the pieces remind of bygone eras with whimsical nods to older style elements. No wonder authentic Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry is so easy to recognize!

Peter Suchy Jewelers in Stamford Connecticut carries many Van Cleef & Arpels pieces that are sure to please! We hope you’ll like us on Facebook and don’t forget to visit our eBay store.