Jewels That Spark the Imagination
Van Cleef & Arpels invites you on a dazzling adventure with its latest high jewelry collection, inspired by Robert Louis Stevenson’s beloved 1883 novel Treasure Island.
Bringing the world of the novel to life, the Maison’s designers and artisans have envisioned an epic journey where daring explorers set sail, braving the unknown in search of hidden treasures. The collection captures the spirit of adventure, culminating in a breathtaking island where nature’s wonders shine in all their glory.
“Stevenson’s Treasure Island is a timeless tale that has sparked imaginations for generations. It has influenced art, literature, and design in countless ways. With this collection, we sought to reimagine its magic through exceptional craftsmanship and storytelling, creating a journey that delights the senses.”
— Nicolas Bos, Van Cleef & Arpels Global President and CEO
A Legacy of Inspiration
Van Cleef & Arpels has always drawn inspiration from history, art, and literature to create its masterpieces. This collection is no exception—a true treasure trove born from the Maison’s archives, where classic tales, magnificent voyages, and exotic lands converge in sparkling harmony.
The sea has long captured the Maison’s imagination, reflected in historical pieces such as the Varuna yacht bell, crafted in gold and enamel, and the seagull brooch, a delicate tribute to the beauty of flight. Over the years, Van Cleef & Arpels has been inspired by distant civilizations, creating designs influenced by Eastern, Far Eastern, and pre-Columbian artistry.
Continuing this tradition, the Maison has paid homage to literary masterpieces such as Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Jules Verne’s Extraordinary Voyages, and fairy tales from Charles Perrault and the Grimm Brothers. Treasure Island now joins this distinguished lineage, reimagined through the lens of high jewelry.
A Journey Through Gemstones
At the heart of Van Cleef & Arpels’ artistry lies a deep love for exceptional gemstones. Every stone is carefully selected for its brilliance, color, and unique character—a philosophy famously captured in Claude Arpels' words: “Every gem has a soul.”
From the depths of the ocean to the heart of an undiscovered island, the collection brings together an extraordinary array of gemstones, blending vivid hues into mesmerizing compositions.
Three Legendary Chapters
The Treasure Island collection unfolds as a trilogy, with each chapter telling a story of adventure, discovery, and breathtaking beauty.
Chapter 1: Sea Adventures
The journey begins with a maritime odyssey, inspired by sailing and the vast ocean.
- The Hispaniola Brooch – Paying tribute to Stevenson’s famous ship, this piece features diamond-set sails, capturing the essence of an expedition across glittering waves.
- The Poésie de la Mer Brooch – At its center, a 61.73-carat tourmaline mirrors the depths of tropical waters, while a diamond-encrusted mermaid celebrates feminine grace and mystery.
- The Mysterious Eclectic Necklace – Diamonds and sapphires mimic the rhythmic movement of waves, evoking the power of the sea.
Chapter 2: Island Adventure
Arriving at a dreamlike island, nature’s beauty unfolds in a symphony of color and texture.
- The Palmeraie Merveilleuse Necklace – Shaped like a crown of palm leaves, this masterpiece is adorned with a luminous 47.93-carat emerald.
- The Coquillage Mystérieux Brooch – A treasure from the shore, this exquisite shell sparkles with rubies and diamonds.
- The Tortue de Cocos Bleue Brooch – Inspired by the majestic Costa Rican sea turtles, this piece shimmers with sapphires and emeralds.
Chapter 3: The Treasure Hunt
The final chapter takes us across continents, uncovering legendary treasures from around the world.
- The Carte au Trésor Brooch – A golden treasure map, marked with rubies and sapphires, guides the way to hidden riches.
- The Ornement d'Alexandrina Ring – At its heart, a striking 12.69-carat lavender sapphire showcases masterful craftsmanship and vibrant color.
At the center of the collection is the Palmier Mystérieux Brooch, a versatile piece symbolizing this incredible journey. Designed with a removable motif, it features a sailing ship, a rising sun, and a treasure chest, all in yellow gold, set against lush palm leaves—offering three different scenes in one extraordinary jewel.
A Celebration of Adventure and Artistry
With Treasure Island, Van Cleef & Arpels has crafted more than just a collection—it has created a journey. A journey through literature, history, and the dazzling world of high jewelry. Each piece is a testament to the Maison’s dedication to artistry, storytelling, and the timeless magic of discovery.
Set sail, and let the adventure begin.
All excerpts in this article are taken from Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson.
Treasure Island by Van Cleef & Arpels
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