Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Princess Charlene of Monaco Prefers Van Cleef & Arpels

Princess Charlene and Prince Albert unveil the Alambra display at Van Cleef  & Arpels boutique in Monaco.

Earlier this month, Princess Charlene and Prince Albert of Monaco helped to inaugurate the Van Cleef & Arpels boutique in the Principality. The occasion allowed the creator of haute joaillerie to introduce a new interpretation its iconic Alhambra motif in honor of the Princess. The necklace and earrings set is adorned with pavé diamonds and turquoises, and evokes the blue waters of Monaco, the company said in a statement.

Van Cleef & Arpels introduced the Alhambra collection in 1968. Its trademark is a setting technique that minimizes the amount of metal, thus emphasizing the diamonds. The stones are selected in different sizes to enhance their sparkle. The exclusive honeycomb open-work setting allows more light to refract into the diamonds. 

Princess Charlene wears the new Alhambra necklace at the Van Cleef & Arpels boutique.

A limited edition of 15 sets will be sold exclusively in the Monaco boutique. A portion of the sales will go to the associations and foundations that have the endorsement of Princess Charlene.

Also earlier this month, the princess wore the Océan necklace at the Monaco Red Cross Ball charity gala. The diamond and sapphire necklace, which can be transformed into a tiara, was a gift from Prince Albert to Princess Charlene following their wedding in early July. The name of the bold, glittering jewelry piece was chosen by Prince Albert. Its sparkle is reportedly the result of 1,200 precious stones that include 88 round diamonds, 10 pear-shaped diamonds and 359 sapphires.

Princess Charlene wears the Ocean necklace at the Monaco Red Cross Ball.

Van Cleef & Arpels has been the “Official Supplier” to the Principality of Monoco since 1956.