Organised by Sarah Coffin, the Head of the museum’s Product Design and Decorative Arts department, the exhibition will examine and showcase the most important creations of Van Cleef & Arpels that have influenced the history of design in the 20th century.

Van Cleef & Arpels' bracelet from 'Perlée' collection, made of pink gold and diamonds

From February 18 to June 5 2011, more than 300 pieces of jewelry, watches, fashion accessories and art objects will be on display alongside commission books, manufacturing cards and many of the Maison’s archives.

Six themes that reflect the essential spirit of Van Cleef & Arpels will be represented: Innovation, Transformation, Nature, Exoticism, Fashion and Celebrities.

Grace Kelly wearing her engagement ring, made by Van Cleef & Arpels

This stroll through the heart of Van Cleef & Arpels’ style is an opportunity to discover the craftsmanship and revolutionary gem-setting technique of the Maison, while seeing some of the most iconic and beautiful pieces in the archives and contemporary collections. The last section will show some of the legendary women to have worn the precious jewels, such as Grace Kelly, Daisy Fellowes and Marlene Dietrich