Van Cleef & Arpels Golden Beads Make Comeback with Perlée Collection

Dainty, delicate and nostalgic, the golden beads of Van Cleef & Arpels’s Perlée collection emerged on the jewelry scene in 2008, but the origins of these miniature shining spheres date back to the roaring 20s. 

Taking on assorted forms in sizes and precious metals—yellow, rose, or white gold—the precious Perlée beads are made using the lost wax casting technique. 

Van Cleef & Arpels’ master jewelers then rework the beads by hand for a flawlessly round form, culminating in several stages of polishing for a perfectly smooth finish. 

The iconic bead motif first caught the public eye when they emphasized a design or bordered a stone in Van Cleef & Arpels’ early pieces. But it was later that the bead pattern truly took the spotlight with the “La Boutique” collection.

The playful collection showcased lighthearted clips, made up entirely of golden beads and colorful gems in the shape of whimsical animals, unveiling Van Cleef & Arpels’s playful side and capturing consumers’ hearts.

With their endless versatility and elegant simplicity, the beloved bead motif continued to evolve through various Van Cleef and Arpels’s collections, until officially taking the stage as Perlée creations—contemporary, dynamic, and vibrant pieces that put the classic bead front and center. 

Now, yet another addition to the Perlée family bursts on the scene with five new statement couleurs rings, whose rounded shapes are a spin on the Philippine rings created by Van Cleef & Arpels in 1968. 

Two rows of beads in yellow gold flank a line of round diamonds in the band, framing a vivid cabochon at the center. 

Three other ring designs show colored precious stones. Captivating rubies, sapphires and emeralds meet the iconic beads in asymmetric designs inspired by the Maison’s Caroline rings of the 1970s. 

Five rows of yellow or rose gold line up in each band with the gems held in place with gold nails, a technique requiring special dexterity.

Two sets of a bracelet and pendant also join the collection’s lineup. The bracelets gracefully wrap the wrist with an open bangle composed of shimmering golden beads set with diamonds and a lapis lazuli or coral cabochon.

The matching pendants showcase the same vividly colored stones, framed by a golden bead border. 

Finally, three unique wristwatch styles round out the gorgeous offerings. Inspired by “you and me” jewels, each timepiece, set on an open golden bead bangle, plays peekaboo with a mother-of-pearl dial revealed by a pivoting gemstone cover. 

More vibrant color combinations sparkle here with red cornelian and black pietersite, turquoise and diamond, or turquoise and coral options.