Van Cleef & Arpels is once again partnering with New York’s American Museum of Natural History to showcase the deep historical and artistic ties between jewelry and celestial inspiration.
Following their 2023 exhibit centered on gardens and green stones, the new show, “Cosmic Splendor: Jewelry from the Collections of Van Cleef & Arpels,” opened last month and runs through January 4, 2026.
This exhibition explores the enduring fascination with the cosmos, featuring nearly 70 pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Visitors will find designs inspired by the moon landing, Sputnik’s launch, and the Age of Aquarius, including iconic oversized zodiac pendants and star-shaped motifs that capture moments when astronomy and mythology met craftsmanship.
This setting allows guests to trace a jewel’s journey—from raw geological specimens like a towering rough amethyst to the finished works of art.
By linking the natural origin of gems with artistic vision, the exhibit highlights jewelry as both a marvel of nature and human imagination.
Van Cleef & Arpels’ celestial collection includes historic pieces such as Jackie Kennedy’s gold cuffs inspired by the moon landing and contemporary high jewelry loans from collectors, underscoring the brand’s continuous dedication to drawing inspiration from the stars.
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