About Van Cleef & Arpels

Founded in 1895, Maison Van Cleef & Arpels quickly made a name for itself through innovative design and jewelry workmanship. Famed for exotic Art Deco creations embracing Far East and Egyptian revival designs, they perfected the sautoir as well as the wide diamond bracelets that sparkled on newly bared arms. In 1933, they patented a groundbreaking gem setting technique dubbed the Mystery Setting, a concept that appeared to suspend gemstones in a mosaic-like pattern with no visible prongs or support. Over its history, the firm continued to expand its designs and became known for whimsical motifs including butterflies, fairies and flowers. The four-leaf clover “Alhambra” design, first introduced in 1968, is one of most emblematic of Van Cleef & Arpels.

About The 1960s

The dynamism of the 1960s was reflected in the bold, colorful and sizable jewelry of the era. Opaque materials in bright colors, such as coral and turquoise, mirrored the hues of the fashion world. Designers looked to Asia, India and Africa for inspiration; the result was a resurgence of gold as well as exotic, global themes. The important makers of the era include Van Cleef and Arpels, Bulgari, Cartier, David Webb, Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany, Harry Winston, Sterlé and Kutchinsky.

About Vintage Jewelry

As curators of 3 centuries of design, we look at jewelry with a discerning eye to find the most inspired, exquisitely crafted pieces. We are proud to share the world’s most renowned vintage jewelry from the greatest design periods the world has ever known.