Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a diamond cutter, married Estelle Arpels in 1895, the daughter of a precious stones dealer. The following year Van Cleef partnered with his father-in-law, Salomon Arpels, and formed Van Cleef & Arpels.

After Salomon died in 1903, Alfred’s brothers-in-law’s, Charles, Louis and Julien joined the family business and officially founded Van Cleef & Arpels. Alfred’s daughter, Renée Puissant, was placed in charge of the company’s artistic direction. 

Their first shop opened in 1906 in Paris. The business quickly expanded with branches opening in Nice, Deauville, Vichy, Lyon and Cannes. At the end of the 1930s, Van Cleef & Arpels began transferring most of its business to the United States — opening a branch in Palm Beach and a shop in New York. 

Van Cleef & Arples was known for creating jewels for royalty, film stars and wealthy entrepreneurs. 

• Princess Faiza of Egypt – Art Deco Emerald and Diamond Necklace (Value: $4 million)
• Duchess of Windsor – Ruby and Diamond Ring (Value: $4 million) 
• Eva Perón, Argentine Film Actress – Sapphire and Diamond Argentine Flag Broach (Value: $992,000)
• Elizabeth Taylor, American Actress – 22 Van Cleef & Arpels pieces (Value: $115 million)