Van Cleef & Arpels, a renowned French jewelry company, has been crafting exquisite pieces since opening its first boutique in 1906. Founded by Estelle Arpels, the daughter of a precious stone dealer, and Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a stone cutter, the Maison was built on a shared passion for fine jewelry. Their union was often described as “The Maison based on love,” a sentiment reflected in their designs. Even before Art Deco became a recognized style, Van Cleef jewelry was already defined by bold geometric shapes and expert craftsmanship. As the decades passed, the brand perfected this design approach, blending innovation with impeccable artistry. Their willingness to experiment with unconventional materials and unexpected gemstone pairings helped establish Van Cleef & Arpels as one of the leading names in high jewelry. A defining characteristic of Van Cleef & Arpels is its use of storytelling in design. Many collections take inspiration from fairy tales and faraway places, giving each creation a narrative quality. The iconic Alhambra collection, with its signature quatrefoil motif, symbolizes luck, health, fortune, and love. This artistic approach infuses Van Cleef jewelry with both beauty and meaning, transforming each piece into more than just an accessory, it becomes a story to wear and cherish.
Designer:Van Cleef & Arpels
Circa:1970s
Materials:18k Gold
Gemstone:Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire
Weight:57.9 grams
Measurements:15" x 1/4"
Hallmarks:Maker's mark, a hallmark for 18k gold, a serial number
A vintage Van Cleef & Arpels collar necklace, crafted in rich 18k yellow gold with a flexible tubogas-style collar. The front section is accented with three cabochon gemstones, featuring two deep blue sapphires and a central red ruby. Each gemstone is framed by rows of round brilliant cut diamonds. The streamlined, flat gold links give the necklace a beautiful fluid feel. Signed by Van Cleef & Arpels, this rare vintage necklace showcases the allure of precious cabochons in a timeless wearable jewel.
