Born in the wake of the marriage of Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels, the Maison came into being at Place Vendôme in Paris in 1906, marking the debut of a bejeweled destiny.
1895
Wedding of Estelle Arpels and Alfred Van Cleef in Paris
In 1895 in Paris, Estelle Arpels, daughter of a dealer in precious stones, married Alfred Van Cleef, son of a lapidary craftsman and diamond broker. The couple shared the same values: a sense of family, a spirit of innovation and a passion for precious stones.
1906
Foundation of the Maison
Van Cleef & Arpels at Place Vendôme
Alfred Van Cleef partnered with Estelle’s brothers to open the first Van Cleef & Arpels boutique at 22 Place Vendôme, a center of Parisian elegance. The Maison has never moved from that legendary address.
1906
Creation of the Varuna Boat
One of the first orders placed with the Maison was a scale model of the Varuna Yacht. This precious object is unique in that it contains an electric bell to call the butler.
1916
Creation of Touch Wood pieces
The Maison designed Touch Wood pieces, jewelry made of wood and precious materials, a loving nod to good-luck charms.
1918
Châtelaine watches in fashion
Luck is in sight
