Maison of Parisian Elegance
M.S. Rau presents remarkable Van Cleef & Arpels creations that demonstrate why this Parisian house has remained at the forefront of haute joaillerie since 1906. Founded through the marriage of Estelle Arpels and Alfred Van Cleef, the maison established its reputation through technical virtuosity and distinctive design sensibilities that appealed to royalty, Hollywood stars, and sophisticated collectors worldwide. From its iconic boutique at 22 Place Vendôme, Van Cleef & Arpels developed a signature aesthetic that balanced French elegance with bold innovation.
Technical Innovation and Artistic Vision
Van Cleef & Arpels' significance stems from revolutionary techniques and distinctive motifs that transformed modern jewelry. The house patented the remarkable Mystery Setting in 1933, allowing gemstones to be set with no visible metal supports—a technical tour de force requiring extraordinary precision. Their Zip necklace, convertible jewels, and transformable designs demonstrated unprecedented mechanical ingenuity.
Parisian Treasures at M.S. Rau
Our curated Van Cleef & Arpels collection offers connoisseurs the opportunity to acquire authentic jewels from this legendary Parisian house. From signature Alhambra designs to remarkable examples of the invisible Mystery Setting, visitors to our New Orleans gallery will discover why Van Cleef & Arpels creations represent the pinnacle of French jewelry artistry.These jewels connect their owners to a heritage of Parisian excellence—objects that embody both technical innovation and timeless elegance while representing the perfect marriage of artistic vision and gemological mastery.
