Materials

Mother-of-pearl

A material dear to the Maison, mother-of-pearl is produced naturally in certain shells. It illuminates jewelry creations with its glistening reflections, imparting a spirit of femininity, softness and protection. Particularly prominent in the Alhambra®, Deux Papillons and Rose de Noël™ jewelry collections, mother-of-pearl also adorns Van Cleef & Arpels timepieces.

Mother-of-pearl illuminates jewelry creations with its glistening reflections.

 

For white mother-of-pearl, the Maison looks primarily toward Australia, which produces a variety renowned for its even surfaces and subtle iridescence. Australia also provides the Maison’s gold mother-of-pearl, selected for its warm hue, satiny surface and lustrous overtone. Finally, gray mother-of-pearl, known for its harmonious gray-silver tones and captivating glow, comes from French Polynesia.

To ensure proper upkeep of its creations, the Maison recommends cleaning mother-of-pearl with pure water or a soft, dry cloth. Contact with cosmetic products should be avoided. Mother-of-pearl is a delicate material that must be stored in a box lined with cotton fabric.