How to Distinguish Genuine from Fake Van Cleef&Arpels Jewelry
Van Cleef&Arpels has been a leader in the field of high-end jewelry since its founding in Paris,France,in 1896.Established by Salomon Arpels and his son-in-law Alfred Van Cleef,the brand has long been favored by royalty,celebrities,and high society for its exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality metals and gemstones.Van Cleef&Arpels has even patented its iconic"Mystery Setting"technique,which makes the claws of jewelry completely invisible,setting it apart from others.
However,there are many unscrupulous sellers in the market who attempt to copy and counterfeit Van Cleef&Arpels jewelry,selling it as genuine.Although some replicas are quite convincing,if you know what to look for,you can usually spot at least one suspicious sign.Van Cleef&Arpels offers an official authentication service,but according to the brand's customer relations center,the authentication fee will cost over2,000,and the cost must be borne by the customer regardless of the outcome.
If you wish to avoid the high cost of official authentication while still confidently confirming that your Van Cleef&Arpels jewelry is genuine,the following tips will be of great help.Although these methods are not foolproof,they can indeed assist you in distinguishing between genuine and counterfeit pieces.Please read the following content carefully.
Trademarks and Other Markings
When identifying Van Cleef&Arpels jewelry,you need to focus on three main elements:metal markings,trademarks,and serial numbers.
Trademark:Typically displayed as"Van Cleef&Arpels"or the simplified"VCA."If you see a trademark like"Van Cleef,"this is a major warning sign that you may be dealing with a fake.
Location of Signature Imprint:This varies depending on the type of jewelry.For earrings,the imprint is usually on the earring clip;for rings,it is inside the ring shank;and for the Alhambra collection,the imprint is located on the clover nearest to the clasp.
Metal Marking:Van Cleef&Arpels only uses 18K gold,marked as"750."This is the number you will always see on genuine pieces.
Serial Number:Usually located near the trademark and marking.For added assurance,it is recommended to contact the manufacturer and compare your serial number with their records.
Cost
If a piece of Van Cleef&Arpels jewelry is priced unusually low and seems too good to be true,it probably is.While prices may vary slightly from store to store,the differences are generally not significant.If the asking price is much lower than other Van Cleef&Arpels pieces you have seen,it is advisable to walk away.
Van Cleef&Arpels jewelry is expensive for a reason.They are made from the highest quality materials,with attention to every detail and handcrafted.The price reflects their quality,design,and reputation.Therefore,do not be misled by low prices,as this may indicate that you are buying a fake.
Quality
In the field of high-end jewelry,quality largely indicates the authenticity of the piece.Van Cleef&Arpels only uses the finest materials and handcrafts its jewelry with superior techniques.Its iconic Alhambra collection,featuring clover patterns on mother-of-pearl and other gemstones set in pure gold,showcases the brand's exquisite craftsmanship.
Every Van Cleef&Arpels piece should be flawless:gemstones should not be misaligned,faded,rusted,stained,or feel cheap.It should shine brightly and never appear dull or greenish.If you have any doubts about the jewelry,do not waste your time.Genuine Van Cleef&Arpels jewelry never lacks impeccable quality.
When inspecting the jewelry,pay attention to the following:
There should be no noticeable gaps between gemstones.
Prongs should not be misaligned or damaged(note Van Cleef&Arpels'iconic Mystery Setting technique).
All gemstones should be cut and placed flawlessly.
Any dull diamonds with noticeable inclusions should be considered suspicious.
Serial numbers,markings,and trademarks should be clear and smooth,not skewed.
Clasps should be sturdy and well-made,not fragile or finicky,and should open and close easily without sticking.
Van Cleef&Arpels has extremely high standards for materials and craftsmanship,which should be evident in every genuine piece.