Amethyst
A member of the silica family, amethyst is a violet-colored quartz. The stone exists naturally in a wide range of hues, from extremely light violet to intense purple. The Maison looks for luminous, homogeneous amethysts with few inclusions. For example, Van Cleef & Arpels does not accept amethysts with zoning or zebra-striped liquid inclusions. The Maison also pays close attention to the quality of the cut. It must be precise and symmetrical to guarantee optimal light reflection.
Amethyst creations are mentioned in Van Cleef & Arpels archives as early as the 1910s. The Heritage Collection includes a clock from 1926 featuring two monkeys carved in stone, as well as pieces inspired by flora, such as the Bouquet de violettes clip and the Violette earrings from 1938.
Clock, 1926
Platinum, yellow gold, amethysts, onyx, amber, diamonds
Van Cleef & Arpels Collection
Violet Bouquet clip and Violet earrings, 1938
Yellow gold, amethysts, diamonds
Van Cleef & Arpels Collection
Chinon bracelet, 1970
Yellow gold, amethysts, turquoise, diamonds
Van Cleef & Arpels Collection
Today, amethyst traditionally adorns High Jewelry creations, such as the Delphinium long necklace (Le Secret collection, 2017). The piece, which can be transformed into a short necklace and bracelets, features a myriad of amethyst beads whose depth contrasts elegantly with the vividness of the emeralds. In 2025, amethyst is one of the five gemstone varieties in the Fleurs d'Hawaï collection.
Amethyst is relatively durable and easy to maintain. However, we recommend keeping it away from heat and therefore not wearing it in hot, humid environments (showers, saunas, hammams). To preserve its beauty over time, Van Cleef & Arpels recommends storing it in a jewelry box. If necessary, it can be cleaned with soapy water and a soft brush, then dried with a soft cloth.
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