Van Cleef & Arpels – Jewelry and High Jewelry, Paris

Van Cleef & Arpels – Jewelry and High Jewelry, Paris

In 1895, Estelle Arpels, the daughter of a precious stones dealer, joined in matrimony with Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a lapidary craftsman and diamond broker. United by their shared values of family, innovation, and a deep love for precious stones, the couple embarked on a remarkable journey together.

Their first venture, the Van Cleef & Arpels boutique, was established at the prestigious 22 Place Vendôme in Paris, a renowned hub of elegance. Since its inception, the Maison has remained rooted at this legendary address, becoming an emblem of the city.

One notable commission received by the Maison in 1906 was the creation of a scale model of the Varuna Yacht. This exquisite piece stood out for its unique feature—a concealed electric bell, ingeniously incorporated to summon the butler.

As the 1920s unfolded, Van Cleef & Arpels embraced the geometric aesthetic of the emerging Art Deco movement. Their fondness for platinum and diamonds gave rise to magnificent creations, characterized by exceptional fluidity, aptly known as "white jewelry."

In the 1970s, inspired by the spirit of the hippie movement and diverse cultures from around the globe, Van Cleef & Arpels ventured into jewelry that embraced vivid, daring hues. Coral, wood, mother-of-pearl, and decorative gemstones intermingled with textured gold, resulting in creations that radiated brilliance both in the light of day and the shimmer of starry nights.

In the 2000s, the Maison experienced a revitalization of creativity, marked by the introduction of themed High Jewelry collections. Alongside groundbreaking creations like Perlée and Frivole, the Complications Poétiques watch collection beautifully embodied Van Cleef & Arpels' poetic perception of time.

Renowned for their ability to enhance the allure of gemstones, Van Cleef & Arpels has received numerous accolades, solidifying its position as one of the foremost leaders in the industry. The Maison offers a range of jewelry, with prices starting from approximately 100 euros and reaching up to around 80,000 euros, catering to various preferences and budgets.

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Van Cleef & Arpels – Jewelry and High Jewelry on Map

Sight Name: Van Cleef & Arpels – Jewelry and High Jewelry
Sight Location: Paris, France (See walking tours in Paris)
Sight Type: Shopping
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Paris, France

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Paris Introduction Walking Tour I

Paris Introduction Walking Tour I

The capital of France takes its name from the Celtic tribe of Parisii who, back in the Iron Age, around the 3rd century BC, settled near the river Seine. The Romans conquered the Parisii and established on their land a garrison town which, towards the end of the 5th century AD, fell to the Franks and flourished under their rule. Despite wars, revolutions and numerous social cataclysms, Paris had...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 5.1 Km or 3.2 Miles
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Paris Introduction Walking Tour II

Paris Introduction Walking Tour II

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.7 Km or 2.9 Miles

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