Van Cleef & Arpels: Private Jewelry Exhibitions and Paris Workshops

During Paris Fashion Week, my daughter and I were thrilled to be invited to Van Cleef & Arpels private exhibition of the Seven Seas Collection of High Jewelry. Viewing these extraordinary gems elevated a passion for elegant treasures to the highest level. Inspired by the crystal waters of the Mediterranean, the hypnotic waves of the Indian Ocean, the sea creatures of the Arabian Sea, and the moon reflecting on the Black Sea, this remarkable collection captivates your senses as you are transported through the beauty of gems to a world of sparkling seas.

For example, the fluidity of the Ocean transformable necklace– a wedding gift from Prince Albert 11 of Monaco to Princess Charlene– suggests the rhythmic rolling of the waves with sparkling curves recreating the image of light on the moving waters, and pear-shaped diamonds in strands evoke droplets of foam.

The thrust of a breaking wave is represented by a bracelet composed of turquoise, lapis lazuli, diamonds and pearls, intertwined by a braiding structure making it highly flexible.

The mystery of the sea is also revealed by the dramatic black and white Rose de Vents Long Necklace, depicting a crossing of the Black Sea by night beneath the luminous light of the moon.

All of the exceptional gems showcased in the Seven Seas Collection evoke the emotions of escape and discovery. From sapphires and crystalline emeralds, turquoises and aquamarines to rubies, coral, pearls and onyx, the imagination and skill of the jewelry designers are truly a vision to behold.  The Collection encapsulates the romantic notion of traveling on an aquatic voyage across the high seas to the end of the world and back.

The collection is not available for public purchase, and only showcased during Paris Fashion Week. Every year inspires a new collection.

You can discover the savoir-faire behind the jewelry’s craftsmanship, and the most modern techniques that give birth to these masterpieces, by enrolling in the workshops offered by the Maison. L’École Van Cleef and Arpels is located on the Place Vendôme, housed in an 18th century townhouse which embodies French artistic style.

To register and to consult the course calendar, visit www.lecolevancleefarpels.com.

Barbara Gerber is the France Today Ambassador for Los Angeles.