A solid eighteen carat gold pill box, set with a cabochon sapphire. This beautiful and opulent piece highlights the quality, construction and luxurious refinement that one comes to expect from one of the world's leading names in haute jewellery. The design is simple with a reeded design across all four sides, and a heavy solid gold lid lift that is set with a gorgeous cabochon sapphire. Van Cleef & Arpels has earned a distinguished reputation for its exquisitely designed and imaginative jewelry, featuring everything from delicate flowers to whimsical animals and graceful ballerinas. The brand originated from the romantic partnership of Estelle Arpels, the daughter of a precious stone dealer, and Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a stone cutter. Their marriage in 1895 ignited a shared passion for gemstones and a pioneering vision that led to the establishment of the Van Cleef jewelry brand. In 1906, the Maison was officially founded by Alfred and Estelle along with her brother Charles, who was later joined by Estelle’s other siblings. They opened a boutique in Place Vendôme, Paris, situated directly opposite the Ritz Hotel. This prime location attracted numerous European aristocrats who were captivated by the creations of Van Cleef & Arpels, facilitating the global dissemination of the Maison’s timeless jewelry. The brand has consistently utilized a diverse selection of precious stones in its pieces, including diamonds, sapphires, and carnelian. The quality is everything one would expect. A thick gauge of metal is used throughout, with perfect, seamless closing around the lid and the hinge. The piece was made in London, England for VCA by renowned english goldsmith's; Kurt Weiss Ltd. Weiss ran a contracted workshop in London for both Cartier and VCA in the 1970's and '80's. They made a number of pieces such as; pill boxes, make up cases and other jewellery and accessories for the French powerhouses. The box features full English assay marks for the Kurt Weiss workshop, along with the date letter "S" for having been made in 1973. On the top of the lid is the Van Cleef & Arpels iconic logo engraved into it' alongside the date letter and "18" gold stamp. The box is presented in excellent condition throughout. It has a substantial with of almost forty four grams of eighteen carat yellow gold. The simplistic and elegant, timeless design of the box means it feels as modern and relevant today as it did when it was made, over fifty years ago. This is the perfect gift for those that love luxury, beauty and design and have it all!These wonderful little studies of craftsmanship can be either used for their intended purpose, or simply enjoyed visually for the beauty they evoke.