Van Cleef&Arpels Clasp Styles:The Key to Authenticating Genuine Jewelry
The clasp design of Van Cleef&Arpels is not only a functional part of the jewelry but also a reflection of the brand's exquisite craftsmanship and unique style.Among them,the lobster clasp is one of the most commonly used clasps by Van Cleef&Arpels,especially in the Alhambra collection.Named for its resemblance to a lobster claw,this clasp is highly praised for its security and ease of use.
In the latest Van Cleef&Arpels products,the lobster clasp design has been further refined.It now features a flatter design and incorporates a unique rhombus-shaped plate element,engraved with the"Van Cleef"logo,showcasing the brand's distinctive charm.Take the Van Cleef&Arpels Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif Hammered 18K Gold Bracelet as an example.This bracelet,with its iconic design,is not only eye-catching but also features a clasp that embodies the brand's latest design philosophy.These bracelets are versatile,whether worn alone or stacked,and can display different styles.The hammered gold craftsmanship is exquisite,and the complete set comes with a Van Cleef&Arpels box and certification,representing a perfect combination of quality and style.
It is worth noting that some jewelry pieces will have a unique serial number engraved on the side of the diamond shape,adding another layer of authenticity to the piece.However,this detail is not present on all jewelry and depends on the production time and location of the item.
Not all modern Van Cleef&Arpels products have adopted this new clasp design.Some products,especially those produced and manufactured in special locations,may still retain the older clasp styles.The traditional lobster clasp,as a common old-style clasp,has a more rounded shape and usually bears the"750"mark,indicating 18K gold.If this mark is not on the clasp,you may find other marks,such as a hawk's head or dog's head,on the round link near the clasp.These subtle marks often require a magnifying glass to accurately identify.
Take the Van Cleef&Arpels Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif Mother-of-Pearl 18K Gold Bracelet as an example.This bracelet,made in 2015,has a round clasp that belongs to the more traditional lobster clasp style.The updated clasp design,however,is exclusive to Van Cleef&Arpels and incorporates the brand's logo.
The Sweet Alhambra collection is known for its delicate and elegant pieces,and its clasp styles fully reflect this.The clasps used on these pieces are smaller and lighter than lobster clasps,complementing the collection's refined essence.This style of clasp adds considerable charm to these bracelets.
Comparing two pieces from the same Sweet Alhambra collection,it is not difficult to see this.For example,a Van Cleef&Arpels Sweet Alhambra Mother-of-Pearl Butterfly 18K Gold Bracelet in our current inventory features an upgraded clasp with the VCA logo engraved again,highlighting the brand's unique style.
In Van Cleef&Arpels'Pure Alhambra collection,the fastening mechanisms for bracelets and necklaces are quite different.Necklaces typically use lobster clasps(including the classic round style and the updated,more streamlined style),while bracelets employ a more unique fastening technique—box clasps or hinge clasps.
This clasp design is particularly aesthetically pleasing.It seamlessly integrates with the Alhambra pattern,and once the hinge is inserted into place,the clasp is almost invisible,thus maintaining the bracelet's elegance and symmetry.This low-profile design of the clasp not only provides a secure fastening system but also ensures that the iconic Alhambra design remains undisturbed,showcasing a refined visual appeal.
In terms of security,the box clasp also performs excellently.This clasp usually also bears the VCA logo,relevant gold purity marks(such as"750"for 18K gold),and hawk head marks,further ensuring the authenticity of the item.
Van Cleef&Arpels'thoughtful design ensures that its commitment to craftsmanship extends to the smallest details of the collection.Each piece is not only beautiful and elegant but also practical and durable,suitable for everyday wear.
So,how can you authenticate the clasp of Van Cleef&Arpels?First,genuine clasps usually bear specific marks,such as"750"for 18K gold or the hawk symbol for French gold.These marks are often very small and require a magnifying glass to inspect carefully.Second,newer pieces usually have the VCA logo engraved and a unique serial number corresponding to the item's certification documents,which is the main basis for experts to authenticate.Lastly,Van Cleef&Arpels jewelry is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship,and counterfeits often lack the weight and smooth functionality of the genuine clasps.Therefore,when purchasing Van Cleef&Arpels jewelry,be sure to choose a well-known company with professional knowledge to ensure that you are buying an authentic piece.