1950s

In the creative tradition of Van Cleef & Arpels, diamond evening jewelry stands alongside daytime pieces in yellow gold adorned with graceful and elegant motifs: flowers, bows and animals. The Maison perfected its Zip necklace, transformable into a bracelet, a true technical feat.

1950

Special orders by the Maharani of Baroda

The Maharani of Baroda placed several unique orders with Van Cleef & Arpels, including this necklace set with more than 220 carats of emeralds from her personal collection.

Necklace design for Sita Devi, Maharani of Baroda, 1949

Van Cleef & Arpels Archives

1950

Creation of the Zip necklace

In 1938, Van Cleef & Arpels patented a jewelry zipper. The first Zip necklace, transformable into a bracelet, was created in 1950.

Zip necklace design, circa 1951

Van Cleef & Arpels Archives

Zip necklace, 1951

Transformable into a bracelet

Yellow gold, platinum, diamonds

Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

Zip necklace, 1954

Transformable into a bracelet

Yellow gold, platinum, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, diamonds

Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

Zip necklace product card, 1951

Van Cleef & Arpels Archives

1954

Creation of la boutique concept

Unveiled with the launch of la boutique at 22 Place Vendôme, the animal clips were part of new, affordable and easy-to-wear collections created by Van Cleef & Arpels. The Lion ébouriffé and Chat Malicieux clips became extremely popular.