1920s

Van Cleef & Arpels’ creations adopted the geometric forms of the burgeoning Art Deco movement. A predilection for platinum and diamonds gave birth to sumptuous pieces of exceptional fluidity known as “white jewelry.”

1923

A passion for oriental inspirations

In 1922 the tomb of Tutankhamun was discovered, sparking a wave of orientalism in Europe. The Maison drew inspiration from contemporary fascination with Egyptian culture, as well as Japanese, Chinese and Indian stylings. Motifs inspired by non-European arts and new materials came to adorn its jewelry creations and precious objects.

Vanity case, 1923

Yellow gold, platinum, enamel, diamonds

Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

Vanity case, 1923

Yellow gold, platinum, jade, enamel, diamonds

Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

Egyptian Pattern bracelet, 1924

Platinum, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, onyx, diamonds

Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

Egyptian Pattern brooch, 1924

Platinum, emeralds, rubies, rock crystal, onyx, diamonds

Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

1923

Creation of the Maison’s first secret watch

Van Cleef & Arpels created a platinum and diamond secret wristwatch.

Secret wristwatch product card, 1929

Van Cleef & Arpels Archives

1925

Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes

Van Cleef & Arpels was awarded the Grand Prize at the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris, notably for its Entwined Flowers, Red and White Roses bracelet.

Van Cleef & Arpels advertisement featuring jewelry presented at the Paris 1925 International Exhibition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts, 1926

Van Cleef & Arpels Archives

Entwined Flowers, Red and White Roses bracelet product card, 1924

Van Cleef & Arpels Archives

Entwined Flowers, Red and White Roses bracelet, 1924

Platinum, emeralds, rubies, onyx, yellow diamonds, diamonds

Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

1926

An Artistic Direction duo at the Maison

Renée Puissant, daughter of the founding couple, became the Maison's Artistic Director, in collaboration with designer René-Sim Lacaze. With boldness and imagination, they forged a distinctive, eminently recognizable style for Van Cleef & Arpels.