Zip necklace of Van Cleef & Arpels

A masterpiece of ingenuity, the Zip necklace is one of Van Cleef & Arpels’ boldest creations. An emblematic creation by Van Cleef & Arpels, the Zip necklace was created in 1950. Representing the influence of couture in the creative world of the Maison, it also illustrates its taste for innovative, transformable pieces.

 

A Van Cleef & Arpels’ avant-garde creation, the Zip necklace was inspired by the zip fastener. The latter was first used for aviator jackets and sailors’ uniforms, before being appropriated by Haute Couture in the 1930s. It was then that the Duchess of Windsor suggested to Renée Puissant, the Maison’s Artistic Director, that a piece of jewelry could reinterpret this technology.

 

Finally created in 1950, the Zip necklace can be worn open as a necklace, or closed as a bracelet. Founded at Paris’ 22 Place Vendôme, the Maison draws inspiration from the world of couture like a discrete homage to the city of its origins.

 

Glittering golden lacework, sparkling bows, tassels of precious stones and ruby ribbons celebrate this center of elegance and fashion. Giving the illusion of bows and draperies, these three-dimensional creations are among the Maison’s most dazzling technical achievements.

 

The Zip necklace offers a sophisticated twist on the zip fastener.

 

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