Marine ODYSSEY

A scintillating sojourn with High Jewellery creations inspired by the wonders of the sea.

- TAN SIOK HOON

PERLES D’ÉTÉ COLLECTION BY VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

There are not many pairings more enchanting than the sun and sea, exactly what jeweller Van Cleef & Arpels had in mind with its Perles d’été collection. Inspired by the sparkling Mediterranean landscapes, the aesthetic of 12 unique pieces, encapsulating necklaces, long necklaces, bracelets and rings, also borrows from the delicately rounded essence of the Perlée jewellery collection. On another level, the High Jewellery capsule is driven by the shapes and shades defining the bold and liberated 1960s and 1970s, besides flamboyant cocktail jewellery with exaggerated volumes and contrasting colours, redolent of 1930s American high society.

What stands out most in the collection is its daring spirit of shimmering elegance elicited from the combination of precious and ornamental stones, particularly how the vibrant blue of the turquoise dazzles against the warmth of the yellow gold beads. Indeed, the striking tableaux of exceptional materials and peerless savoir-faire transport you instantly to the Riviera’s scenography of crystal blue waters and gorgeous, sun-kissed terrain.

This inside story will endear you further to the Perles d’été collection — the turquoise, a stone favoured by Van Cleef & Arpels, especially in the 1920s, that takes centre stage hails from precious lots acquired by the Maison several years ago. Unearthed in Arizona in three batches, this material of rare quality embellishes 10 of the 12 unique creations of the Perles d’été collection.