Van Cleef & Arpels has always been inspired by the unique creative energy of love, for it was love which brought the Maison into being.
Towards the end of the 19th century, a young girl named Estelle Arpels – the daughter of a dealer in precious stones – met a boy named Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a stone-cutter. It was the beginning of a love story like no other, a great adventure beyond expectation.But above all, they were inspired by the desire to create something lasting together. That desire led them to found the Maison of Van Cleef & Arpels. In 1906, Alfred set up in business with Estelle’s brother Charles, a talented salesman who managed their new boutique in Paris’ Place Vendôme. Two years later, Estelle’s brother Julien joined the firm; they were joined in 1912 by her third brother, Louis.
Over the years that followed, they succeeded in making Van Cleef & Arpels synonymous with the most exquisite jewelry in the world. With that achievement, the love, which first brought Estelle and Alfred together, lives on to this day through the many enchanting love stories of the Maison.
- taken from the website of Van Cleef & Arpels. For additional information regarding the company please visit www.vancleefarpels.com.