Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum - The Jewelry of Van Cleef & Arpels

I finally got a chance to visit the Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum last week, a Smithsonian Institution devoted to historic and contemporary design.  I can't believe I waited this long to visit a museum that's only three blocks away from me!  The former Andrew Carnegie Mansion (64 rooms!) is absolutely stunning, and with re: Design renovations underway, I'm excited to see the progress as each phase is completed.

The museum exterior.

The current exhibition - Set in Style:  The Jewelry of Van Cleef & Arpels - what a stunning display of Innovation, Transformation, and Inspiration.  It's a shame no pictures were allowed, I was so tempted to sneak a couple, but there were security guards everywhere.  As a person who snuck a picture of the David in Florence, I tried but it was impossible! there was no room for any sneaking around here.  They featured over 300 exquisite pieces, showcased sketches, and a video of the processes of creating the Mystery Setting.  It was neat to see private collections, and especially the pieces that were worn by the Princess of Monaco - Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, among other personalities.  If you're near the area, I definitely recommend this exhibit!

For more information and photos of the exhibit, click here.

(Images via cooperhewitt.org)