Leading firm of French Jewellery active since the late 19th C set up by Alfred Van Cleef and his two brothers in law, Charles and Julien Arpels.
In 1906 their first boutique was opened in the Place Vendome opposite the Ritz. The company is known for its high quality of design and workmanship. In 1933 the company registered a patent for the ‘Serti Mysterieux ‘ a method of setting gems that is now known as the invisible setting. The company thrived through the Art Deco period.
The family had to leave during the occupation of France but the next generation regained their business in 1944.
A number of high profile clients including actress Grace Kelly increased their profile and they were named Royal jewellers of the principality of Monaco. The company remained in family ownership until 1999.
