Mainly sourced from Brazil and India, the carnelian is a rough stone that ranges in color from pale orange to reddish brown and evokes through its deep and joyful shade life and happiness. Legend has it that it was the first stone used in jewelry-making and was present in various cultures, from Crete to Central Asia and the Orient. In fact the Egyptians believed that it assisted the soul in its passage to the afterlife and it is said that it protects against fire and misfortune in a home, from anger, jealousy and fear. In addition to being August’s birthstone, it symbolizes the 17th wedding anniversary. Van Cleef & Arpels only chooses carnelian from Brazil because of its incomparable hue and achieves the highest level of polish to bring out its rich beauty, leading to the creation of the most stunning jewelry pieces your eyes could ever fall on.

The chrysoprase is a gemstone that mainly exists in Australia, Africa, Europe, Russia, USA and Brazil. When in its purest conditions, it is visually similar to jade and varies in color from apple to deep green. This stone is one of the oldest known gems in the history of jewelry and has been worn by Alexander the Great and Frederick II of Prussia, among others. Sourced from Australia and Africa by the house in apple green hues, this precious gem symbolizes femininity and fertility and is also known for its beneficial effects on the heart, as it gives it energy. On a more emotional level, it soothes anger, inspires faith and simplicity, gives courage to shy persons and rids its wearer of dark thoughts. Now that you know all about them, you will fall in love even more with these fascinating Bouton d’Or jewels.