SP
Stephanie Phillips
2 days ago
You know its real when you're at the bar and hear people discussing an elevator and know they aren't referencing Bey!
Enter at your own risk, their elevator situation is a major concern. my girlfriend and I have gotten stuck before, and on other occasions while stepping on or off the lift dropped suddenly, we actually felt it sink while the doors were still open. or it just flat out jolts while going up or down and stops in between floors.
It's 10000000% an extremely unsettling experience, especially knowing that other people experienced this too makes me wonder if this has been addressed? or most importantly when will it be? I wonder if that's why the boutique prior isn't there any more.
DF
Darion Freedman
Aug 11, 2026
I honestly cannot believe this is the level of service Van Cleef & Arpels allows in their boutique. I had an appointment with a sales associate named Gu and the entire experience left such a bad taste in my mouth.
He made several comments during our appointment that I found racially insensitive and extremely uncomfortable. There is absolutely no excuse for making a client feel that way, especially in a place where you are potentially spending thousands of dollars.
His attitude on top of it was just bizarre. He kept bragging about expensive jewelry he had sold, as if we were supposed to be impressed, and there was nothing humble or gracious about him. Every time we asked to see certain pieces, he would do this weird high-pitched laugh that felt incredibly condescending, like our requests were somehow funny to him.
The entire interaction felt judgmental and honestly unsettling. There was something about the way he looked at us and spoke to us that made me want to end the appointment and leave. I came in excited to look at jewelry and instead walked out angry and uncomfortable.
so I'm aware this location primarily services appointments rather than walk in guests. Which was a plus, than the rather so busy location within BG because I wanted to take the time to thoughtfully and carefully choose a piece that was right for me as this would be my first piece of jewelry. I didn't want to feel rushed or another one of many customers getting the "flower bracelet" if you know what I mean. When I entered the boutique I was calmly greeted by the two hosts in the front which was more refreshing than the all so usual "Hello, Welcome" script most stores bombard u with upon entering. Being that I walked in without an appointment they offered me to have a seat as someone will be available momentarily and they also offered treats to help with the wait. One thing I've noticed while waiting was how every store associate had their own individual distinctive quality about them which was a MAJOR surprise to me because when shopping I've noticed stores especially in luxury like to go the copy & paste route when staffing, while also observing the boutique I couldn't help but notice the hover culture aka the micro managing style. I'm assuming coming from the store management team, as it made me very uncomfortable to watch especially as a guest and I also couldn't understand why being that this boutique is so intimately designed it doesn't seem necessary. Shortly after waiting I was introduced to Sophie and she escorted me to the second floor where she hosted me. I discussed my reason for coming and items of my interests. Though the boutique wasn't super busy it did have moderate traffic coming in and out, I couldn't tell if she was nervous or distracted. She'd ask me questions, and i'd answer but I wasn't sure if she was actually listening or retaining what I was saying although she appeared to be looking at me it was very blank with stillness lingering between us while we converse. Now I understand sometimes being assigned a client can feel like speed dating but the whole interaction felt as if I was doing most of the work for her in leading this experience for me. I mentioned I was interested in the white gold white mother of pearl or the white gold with the light blue stone bracelet and pendant. other than being told this is the "signature iconic creation" she had no other opinions or comments, now I'm not trying to fish for compliments or anything but give me SOMETHING to go off of. She also seemed sort of flustered when letting me know if either item was actually in store or not as her answers kept changing and she kept stepping away. While she stepped away to check her inventory I couldn't help but overhear other sales staff and I assume their assistants assist customers the way they story tell and give you knowledge on the piece or the stone what it is how to care for it the shade of color I was truly saddened at the contrast of their assistance versus mine whether it was their passion or just another script that was the experience I thought I would've had visiting this boutique on Madison, its only now while writing this review that it occurred to me that maybe she is new and just started, and I get it.. growing pains. However I didn't get the bracelet or pendant as it wasn't available and even if it had been I don't think I would've gotten it from this boutique, had I known this would've been the experience I would've went to the location within BG I guess.
JS
Jamie Salafia
Jun 20, 2026
We have had a great experience at the Madison Ave store with Alex. We have purchased from Alex multiple times and been in person to the shop several times as well. This Maison is an amazing experience- Alex is kind, professional, and incredibly helpful with suggestions for pieces to purchase. Definitely recommend him if you are in need of an SA. The jewelry is absolutely stunning and the quality is excellent.
I would give 0 star if possible. I’ve been a loyal Van Cleef & Arpels customer and have purchased multiple pieces over the years, but the experience with the New York Madison Avenue boutique today was shockingly unprofessional.
When I called, someone picked up the phone and left the line open for over 46 seconds without saying a word before hanging up. I called back, and as soon as I asked about an item’s price, they hung up again with no return call.
For a maison at this level, this kind of dismissive behavior toward customers is unacceptable. Would avoid Richemont from now on.