26 May Sell Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry in San Diego
Seen Above: A 1930s drawing from a Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry designer that illustrates the brand’s iconic flowing aesthetic.
Van Cleef & Arpels has been creating stunning jewelry for over a century. From their iconic Alhambra collection to their gorgeous diamond and colored gemstone rings, C. Blackburn Jewelers is the best place in San Diego to sell jewelry from Van Cleef & Arpels (VCA). Call 858-251-3006 to talk directly with our owner Carl Blackburn about the VCA jewelry that you would like to sell, and schedule an appointment to bring your item to our La Jolla jewelry store.
The Beginnings of Van Cleef & Arpels.
Van Cleef & Arpels was founded in 1896 by Alfred Van Cleef and his brother-in-law Salomon Arpels. The two men had a passion for jewelry and a desire to create pieces that were both beautiful and innovative. They opened their first boutique in Paris, France, and quickly gained a reputation for their exquisite designs and attention to detail. Over the years, Van Cleef & Arpels has continued to evolve and innovate, creating iconic pieces worn by Elizabeth Taylor to modern-day favorites seen on actresses such as Emma Stone and Cate Blanchett.
The Iconic Alhambra Collection
One of Van Cleef & Arpels’ most iconic collections is the Alhambra collection, which was first introduced in 1968. The collection features the brand’s signature clover motif, which is said to represent luck, health, fortune, and love. The Alhambra collection includes a range of jewelry pieces, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings, all featuring the distinctive clover design. The collection has become a symbol of the brand’s timeless elegance and has been worn by countless celebrities and fashion icons over the years.
The Mystery Setting Technique
One of Van Cleef & Arpels’ most innovative techniques is the Mystery Setting, which was first introduced in the 1930s. This technique involves setting diamonds or other precious stones in a way that hides the prongs or metal holding them in place, creating a seamless and almost magical effect. The process is incredibly intricate and time-consuming, with each stone individually cut and set by hand. The Mystery Setting has become synonymous with the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail, and remains a highly coveted technique in the world of high-end jewelry.
The Zip Necklace
One of Van Cleef & Arpels’ most iconic designs is the Zip necklace, which was first created in the 1950s. The necklace was inspired by the zipper, which was a relatively new invention at the time and had become a symbol of modernity and innovation. The Zip necklace was designed to be both functional and fashionable, with the ability to be worn as a necklace or unzipped and worn as a bracelet. The design was a hit with celebrities and fashion icons, and remains a beloved and highly sought-after piece of jewelry today.
VCA jewelry is Adored by Hollywood
Van Cleef & Arpels (VCA) has been a favorite of Hollywood for decades, and their jewelry has graced many red carpets over the years. Elizabeth Taylor famously wore a Van Cleef & Arpels necklace in the film “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” and the brand’s pieces have been spotted on stars like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Princess Diana. More recently, Emma Stone’s 2019 Oscars look and Blake Lively’s Met Gala ensemble have solidified Van Cleef & Arpels’ place as a go-to jeweler for Hollywood’s celebrities.
The Van Cleef & Arpels Watch
While Van Cleef & Arpels is primarily known for its exquisite jewelry, they also produce a range of exceptional watches that embody the brand’s elegance, craftsmanship, and artistic design. These timepieces are known to be as pleasing to wear as they are beautiful to look at.
One of the notable watch collections by Van Cleef & Arpels is the “Poetic Complications” series. These watches feature intricate mechanical movements combined with artistic elements, such as miniature paintings, enameling, and gem-setting. The “Lady Arpels Pont des Amoureux” watch, for example, showcases a delightful scene of a couple on a bridge, with the hour and minute hands representing the figures’ movements.
Another popular collection is the “Charms” series, which incorporates whimsical charms into the design of the watch. These charms can be customized and include a variety of motifs like animals, hearts, and luck symbols. The “Charms Extraordinaire Fée Sakura” watch is an exquisite example, featuring a fairy perched on a cherry blossom branch, with the blossom acting as a delicate time display.
Recent Estate Jewelry Buys
Browse a collection of C. Blackburn Jewelers’ recent purchases of vintage, antique, and estate jewelry.
How to Sell Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry or Watch
The first step in selling Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry, whether it is vintage or modern, is to obtain a cash quote from several different San Diego jewelry buyers. C. Blackburn Jewelers is conveniently located in La Jolla Cove, and thus a short drive from other San Diego communities such as Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, and Encinitas.
We will gladly offer you a preliminary cash quote if you give us a call at 858-251-3006 or send us a message in the contact form below. Please provide as much details as possible about your Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry or watch, including whether you have any of the originals sales material, such as sales receipt or gift box.
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619-723-8589
