Emerald and Diamond Bombé Ring by Van Cleef & Arpels, Paris, circa 1957
Emerald and Diamond Bombé Ring by Van Cleef & Arpels, Paris, circa 1957
A ring centering a prong-set cabochon emerald, the bombé mounting set with round diamonds and lines of baguette diamonds; mounted in platinum, with French assay marks, in a fitted box
- 1 cabochon emerald, weighing 12.24 carats
- Signed Van Cleef et Arpels, numbered
- Measurements: 1 1/8 x 1 inches
- Ring size for 2 1/2 inches
Additional cataloguing
Certification
American Gemological Laboratories The Prestige Gemstone Report stating that the cabochon natural beryl emerald is of Colombian origin with insignificant to minor traditional clarity enhancement.
Biography
Van Cleef & Arpels was founded in 1906 by Alfred Van Cleef and his two brothers-in-law, Charles and Julian Arpels, at 22 Place Vendôme, Paris. Their important design innovations include the invisible setting, the minaudière and the Zip necklace. In 1939, they opened an office in Rockefeller Center in New York, moving three years later to 744 Fifth Avenue where they are today. Their impressive client list includes royalty, socialites, and Hollywood stars such as Jackie Kennedy, Princess Grace, Liz Taylor, and the Duchess of Windsor. In 1999, Van Cleef & Arpels became part of the Richemont Group. They have locations in the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
Significance
The late 1950s and early 1960s were a time of cultural and economic expansion for the West. Experiencing a postwar boom, the Unites States and Europe embraced prosperity, stability, and an era of protest and social responsibility. Art, fashion, and jewelry reflected freedom and creativity. Pop Art, Conceptualism. and Performance Art grew in popularity. Andy Warhol created some of his most iconic works, such as the Marilyn Diptych and Campbell’s Soup Cans. Artists including Elvis and The Beatles propelled rock and roll to the televisions that were now in most homes. Women’s clothing favored a sleek A-line silhouette in bright colors or patterns. To stand out against all the color and excitement of the time, jewelry had to be bold.
Cocktail rings became colorful, and oversized—they were meant to draw attention to the hand as it rested on the stem of a fluted glass or held a beaded purse against a silk column gown. The idea of a bold statement ring became popular in the 1920s, when women seized social freedoms and began to work outside the home, take up sports, and socialize at nightclubs. By the 1960s, the cocktail ring was no longer scandalous, and a jewel like this Van Cleef & Arpels emerald and diamond ring would be the center of any event.
Centering a luminous cabochon Colombian emerald, this bombé ring features an elegant diamond-set band. Lines of baguette-cut stones accentuate the height and curved shape of the ring. The variety of round and baguette diamonds assures sparkle and light reaches the underside of the emerald. The overall effect is a beautiful play of color and light. Featuring impeccable construction, a rare stone, and a beautiful design, this unparalleled ring would be an important addition to any collection.
