Image: Erik Madigan Heck

Popular Parisian jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels has unveiled its new 2 Butterfly series just in time for spring. The new additions to the collection used spectacular precious gems to further immortalize the grace and charm of butterflies. Year after year, the Maison celebrates the arrival of spring with elegant creations inspired by the transformations of flora and fauna.

Since its inception in 2001, the 2 Butterfly line has consistently featured butterflies with limitless combinations of colored rocks. It has appeared in wood, lacquer, enamel, mother-of-pearl, and decorative stones over the years. For the first time this year, the iconic winged creatures are adorned with vibrant turquoise, warm yellow gold, and gleaming diamonds. The pendant, between-the-finger ring, and earrings all feature a beautiful and bold color contrast.

Image: Van Cleef & Arpels

The turquoise-filled butterfly on the pendant is tilted to one side, chasing a sparkling diamond fixed along the chain. The butterfly’s raised design adds to the illusion of movement, as if the creature is actually flapping its wings.

Image: Van Cleef & Arpels

Asymmetrical jewelry is something Van Cleef & Arpels is known for. The earrings and the between-the-finger ring are the most prominent examples of this unique style. Each butterfly in the pair of earrings is unique; one is encrusted with gleaming diamonds, while the other is adorned with gleaming turquoise.

Image: Van Cleef & Arpels

The between-the-fingers ring is inspired by the way butterflies flirt in nature. The gentle creatures are nestled close by the gold band that disappears when the ring is used. The impression of butterflies simply fluttering over the finger is formed, which is certainly a talking point. The gleaming diamonds are meticulously selected for the highest quality. The chosen stones, like those in the Maison’s jewelry, high jewelry, and watchmaking collections, are rated D to F for color and IF to VVS2 for clarity.

Image: Van Cleef & Arpels

The Maison’s expertise in creating exceptional jewelry is perfectly exemplified by the Two Butterfly collection. Every step of the manufacturing process, from gemstone selection to final polishing, was carried out with great care and intention. The jewelry’s openwork backs have been meticulously crafted to allow light to pass through the diamonds. Meanwhile, the turquoise stone is cut and polished several times to achieve its intense color and gleaming surface.

In other jewelry news, the world’s largest blue diamond will be auctioned off during Sotheby‘s Hong Kong Luxury Week in April. The rare De Beers Cullinan Blue, weighing 15.1 carats, is expected to sell for US$48 million.