Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Long Necklace

When it comes to buying vintage jewelry, there are many things to consider, including the materials used, the design and the price. There are also some important questions to ask to make sure you’re getting a true piece of art that is authentic. If you’re interested in purchasing a piece of jewelry, it’s always best to take the time to shop around to find the right one.

Authenticity

Whether you’re looking for a new piece of jewelry or you’re trying to figure out which Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra necklace is the best buy, it’s important to know the difference between the fake and the real thing. With that said, let’s take a closer look at this iconic line of jewelry.

The first thing you should know is that the best and most expensive jewelry by Van Cleef & Arpels is rarely found for under $10,000. This stipulation can make shopping for a brand new piece of jewelry somewhat intimidating, but rest assured that the company possesses an enviable reputation for flawless craftsmanship.

Another sign you’re shopping for a genuine piece is the quality of the stones. All Alhambra pieces are made with only the finest gemstones, which are sourced from French Polynesia and Australia. For the lucky few, you can also expect diamonds of the highest quality.

The best way to determine which of these pieces is a bona fide Van Cleef & Arpels creation is to cross reference the manufacturer’s records. You’ll find that each piece is accompanied by a unique serial number. These numbers are often difficult to decipher, but can be interpreted based on the design and the corresponding photos. If you’re not confident in your abilities, a knowledgeable jeweler should be able to help you out.

It’s no secret that the company has a rich history. Their iconic pieces have spawned a plethora of sub-collections, each showcasing a variety of unique designs. But the Alhambra line stands out for its signature motifs. From the clovers to the more intricate elongated chalcedony cuts, each and every design is a masterpiece in its own right.

The alhambra, or more specifically, the VCARD80900, is a great example of the craftsmanship that goes into a true Van Cleef & Arpels piece. While the price is a bit steep, the quality of the gold and the dazzling array of gemstones more than make up for it. Even better, this opulent piece is a faithful homage to the original designs of the Alhambra line.

Design

The Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra long necklace is a classic style. This piece features a quatrefoil motif, which is crafted in white gold. There is an 84 cm link chain. It also has a lobster clasp. It weighs 49.5 grams.

The Alhambra design was first introduced in 1968. Since then, it has become a widely recognised symbol for Van Cleef & Arpels. However, the design has undergone many changes throughout the years.

One of the major shifts in the design is that Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry has evolved beyond the four clovers. The collection is now dominated by a variety of gemstones, and the designs have expanded to include rings, earrings, and bracelets.

Each type of stone has a specific characteristic. Chalcedony, for example, is naturally a translucent and semi-transparent stone, which makes it perfect for highlighting the natural tone of the stone. Onyx is a popular choice as well. But it is important to be cautious about stones that are not 100% flawless. These blemishes pose a red flag for authenticity.

In addition to the traditional quatrefoil, the Alhambra collection features a variety of other designs, such as a beaded edge, or a small squared shaped quatrefoil. Another variation is the Byzantine design, which leaves negative space where the stone is set.

Throughout its history, the Van Cleef & Arpels alhambra has been worn by a variety of celebrities. Grace Kelly was a longtime fan of the brand. She often wore two or three alhambra necklaces at the same time.

The Alhambra collection is considered the most desirable jewelry resale collection, as it retains its value fairly well. The resale price is usually between 85 percent and 100 percent of the retail value. Some styles can sell higher than retail.

The brand is known for its exquisite haute joaillerie creations, and the Van Cleef & Arpels vintage alhambra necklace is no exception. It features a mother of pearl carved pendant, and comes with original packaging.

If you are looking to add a new Van Cleef & Arpels piece to your collection, the Alhambra may be just the piece for you.

Materials

The best way to get the most bang for your buck is to find a retailer that offers a wide selection of fine jewelry. The good news is that you won’t have to dig around for days to find what you’re looking for. For instance, if you’re lucky, you’ll find a good selection of Van Cleef & Arpels pieces in your favorite local jeweler. In fact, you may even be able to score a bargain on a one-of-a-kind piece. So, what are you waiting for? Make an appointment today and you could be wearing one of these baubles within hours of purchase. And, since these pieces are all one-of-a-kind, they’ll be sure to impress even the most finicky of fashionistas. Just don’t forget to bring your wallet. You’ll be glad you did. After all, you’ll have the best baubles in town to show off to your colleagues. Plus, you’ll be well on your way to acquiring a piece of luxury jewelry that will last the test of time. Oh, and by the way, if you need some help picking out the right jewelry for you, you can always ask the pros at TRR.

Price

Van Cleef & Arpels have produced a number of iterations of their Alhambra design. Each decade has seen the inclusion of new gemstones, but each one has also featured a classic mother-of-pearl motifs. As a result, the motifs have become an iconic symbol of the brand. These timeless creations are now available in letterwood, a material that has a flecked reddish brown appearance. The necklaces also feature a lobster clasp, and they are presented in RichDiamonds presentation boxes.

Van Cleef & Arpels’ first iteration of the Alhambra design was created in 1968. It features 20 clover-shaped motifs. These are adorned with a border of golden beads. In the 1970s, this design became extremely popular with celebrities. This is because the motifs are reminiscent of a Moorish quatrefoil pattern. Grace Kelly, who was a longtime devotee of the brand, was known to wear two or three Alhambra necklaces at a time.

Today, the brand’s signature motifs have become some of the most valuable and sought after fine jewellery pieces on the market. Although it’s been 50 years since its first iteration, the designs have been updated and revised many times, and the new collection has an undeniable elegance. For fans of classic luxury, the Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra is a must-have. A dazzling example of Van Cleef & Arpels’ signature jewellery, it is a perfect addition to any wardrobe.