Vintage Diamond & Emerald Butterfly Pendant, by Van Cleef & Arpels
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There are butterflies, but then there are the Van Cleef & Arpels butterflies.
This vintage Van Cleef & Arpels butterfly necklace from the 1970s, captures everything the maison does best: poetry, movement, and impeccable craftsmanship.
The butterfly motif has been part of VCA’s design language since the early 20th century. For the house, it stands for transformation, joy, and fleeting beauty, themes that appear throughout their high and fine jewelry collections. By the 1960s and 70s, Van Cleef & Arpels was re-imagining nature in softer, more wearable forms, making delicate yet luxurious pieces that were effortless and feminine.
This piece is a classic example of 1970s VCA.
The wings are pavé-set with brilliant-cut diamonds, bright yet refined. At the center is a vivid green emerald cabochon, a nice pop of color against the white diamonds.
About the Collection
Van Cleef & Arpels has revisited the butterfly motif many times over the decades, from high jewelry clips in the 1940s to later fine jewelry pieces. The 1970s versions are especially collectible because they connect the glamour of mid-century design with the bold gold revival of that era. These pieces are wearable, romantic, and distinctly Parisian.
Unlike the later Alhambra line, which is graphic and symmetrical, the butterfly pieces are softer and more lyrical.
A Brief History of the Maison
Founded in 1906 at Place Vendôme, Van Cleef & Arpels soon became known for technical innovation and poetic design. The maison pioneered the Mystery Set technique in the 1930s and has long been linked to royalty, Hollywood, and serious collectors.
Every piece bearing the VCA signature reflects the meticulous standards of its Parisian atelier, where stone selection, balance, and craftsmanship are paramount. Even their “smaller” jewels carry the refinement of high jewelry thinking.
- 18kt Yellow Gold
- 16" in length & adjustable at 15" in length
- Butterfly Measures: .80" W x .38" L
- 5.2 Grams
- Cabochon Green Emerald est. 0.55ct
- .50ctw of round brilliant cut diamonds, G/H VVS/VS1
- Made in France circa 1970s.
- Signed and Numbered VCA
Please see qualitative report for more information.
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