A VAN CLEEF & ARPELS GOLD BRACELET WITH 11 CARATS OF EMERALDS AND DIAMONDS

New York, ca. 1940, signed 'V. C. A. N. Y.' on the clasp
Bearing a standard 'Double Safety' locking mechanism at the backside, which was frequently used by Van Cleef & Arpels, New York, at the time

Elegantly gadrooned heart shaped links 18 carat of yellow gold are followed by arrays of almost flawless emeralds and brilliant cut diamonds, weighing a total of ca. 11 carats, the diamonds with Top Wesselton color grades and a clarity range from VVSI to VSI. A total of 56 stones have been assembled to build eight groups, each meticulously held 18 carat white gold by prong settings.
It is known that VCA made several versions of this bracelet, with numbers of stones ranging from 30 at the minimum and 56 at the maximum.
The Van Cleef & Arpels brand was founded in 1906 and instantly conjures up an exciting image of large diamonds, rare rubies, historic sapphires and emeralds from princely collections. Throughout the firm's illustrious history, this high-jewelry house has consistently worked to improve methods for cutting stones, mounting stones, in the process crafting sophisticated pieces that will be treasured for generations. Faithful to the spirit of their founders, each piece of Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry is designed to enhance the beauty of exceptional stones. Van Cleef & Arpels is actively involved with the preservation and presentation of their history today, putting together sublime shows from their archives in major world capitals.

Shape: Bracelet with movable links
Weight: 50 grams
Dimensions: Length 18.5 cm
Condition: Excellent with only minor wear
Insurance value: This bracelet was recently appraised with an insurance replacement value of 50.000,- Euro; the original certificate will be handed to the winning bidder
Provenance: Italian private collection, purchased by a noble family from Rome at VCA in New York shortly after the war (by repute) and thence by descent

Literature recommendation: Van Cleef & Arpels: The Art & Science of Gems. Laurence Mouillefarine and Berenice Geoffroy-Schneiter, ED XAVIER BARRAL, 2016.

Auction result comparison: Magnificent Jewels. Christies, New York, 16 October 2012, lot 72. (compare with a related bracelet)