For its new High Jewellery collection, Van Cleef & Arpels drew inspiration from the timeless story of Treasure Island, the classic adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, first published in 1883.
The novel tells the story of a young boy who finds a mysterious treasure map and sets off on a journey to uncover buried treasure on a distant island. Inspired by this world of imagination and adventure, the Maison’s designers, artisans and experts came together to create a captivating and playful jewellery collection fuelled by this storyline.
Stones are at the heart of Van Cleef & Arpels, and as Claude Arpels once said, ‘Every stone has a soul of its own.’ This philosophy comes to life in Treasure Island, where a rich palette of gems and colours is revealed—each with its own unique personality.
Since its inception, a spirit of innovation has driven Van Cleef & Arpels, and Treasure Island is no exception. Featuring vibrant contrasts, delicate transitions, and breathtaking multicoloured blends, it seamlessly brings together landscapes and treasures from around the world, offering a vibrant opulence.
Like a novel, the collection is divided into three distinct yet harmonious chapters. The first chapter celebrates the art of navigation, featuring sailor knots and motifs in rich blues that reflect the beauty of the ocean.
Explore The Adventures of Treasure Island by Van Cleef & Arpels
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The second chapter pays tribute to nature’s wonders, showcasing seashells, flowers, and trees in vibrant colours. The final chapter takes us on a treasure hunt inspired by global cultures, ranging from pre-Colombian to Asian influences.
Standout pieces include the Palmier Mystérieux clip, which symbolises the three chapters of the collection with interchangeable motifs—a boat, a sun, and a treasure chest—adorned with an overhanging palm tree. This piece utilises a technique known as the Traditional Mystery Set, a patented Van Cleef & Arpels method that allows gems to be set while the underlying metal remains invisible.
Other notable pieces include the Hispaniola clip, a ship crafted from white gold and set with diamonds, along with the Cordage Infini necklace and earrings, which pay homage to the art of sailor knots.
