Van Cleef & Arpels: Set In Style

One would expect the jewels are absolutely breathtaking, but the visual display of this show is a stunning example of cutting edge exhibit design.

Visitors are handed an iPad to take around while viewing the show, complete with video interviews with Claude Arpels Jr., Head Designer Angela Forenza  + Exhibit Designer Patrick Jouin. One of the videos shows the process of setting stones - utterly fascinating. The videos can be viewed from their site, here.

Some of the goodies to behold were former possessions of:

Princess Grave of Monaco's Tiara for the wedding of Princess Caroline in 1978

Jacqueline Kennedy's Diamond Hair Clips 1961

Elizabeth Taylor's Pendant Earrings 1984

Grace Kelly's Engagement Set 1956

Maria Callas' Flower Brooch 1967

Marlene Dietrich's Bracelet 1937

Eva Peron's Necklace 1939

Gretta Garbo's Ring 1949

and the list goes on...

This exhibition features more than 350 works, including jewels, timepieces, fashion accessories + objects d'art. Many were created exclusively for American clientele, along with drawings, commission books, fabrication cards + imagery from the firm's archives.  A sneak peak into the creative process.

Live vicariously!

Smithsonian Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum 2 East 91st Street 212 849 8400

Extended until July 4th, 2011 M-F 10-5 Sat 10-6 Sun 11-6

Enjoy the Mansion, former home of Andrew Carnegie. as it will be closed for renovation for the next couple of years. This is a noteworthy last show for this spectacular institution.

Happy Weekend.