The Story of Alhambra and a Guide to Authenticating Van Cleef&Arpels Alhambra Jewelry
The Van Cleef&Arpels Alhambra collection combines the mysterious charm of lucky charms with the elegance of fine jewelry,making it one of the most iconic designs in jewelry history.Alhambra is not only a symbol of Van Cleef&Arpels but also reflects the brand's pursuit of excellence in gemstones,metals,and craftsmanship.
As early as 1906,luck became a core element in Van Cleef&Arpels'designs.In the 1920s,the four-leaf clover pattern first appeared in the brand's archives and has since become a signature symbol.Jacques Arpels,who firmly believed in the power of luck,often gifted four-leaf clovers picked from his backyard to employees as a token of good fortune.This dedication to luck has been integrated into the brand's design philosophy.
Over time,the concept of luck and lucky charms has inspired many classic pieces by Van Cleef&Arpels,with the Alhambra necklace being the most notable.Launched in 1968,this iconic necklace,crafted from gold and adorned with 20 clover motifs and a bead-set outline,quickly gained popularity among women,especially those who loved to wear jewelry daily.Its unique design has attracted the attention of many celebrities,including Romy Schneider,Françoise Hardy,Elizabeth Taylor,and Grace Kelly,the Princess of Monaco,who owned multiple Alhambra necklaces.
The Evolution and Innovation of the Alhambra Collection
The success of the Alhambra necklace has inspired Van Cleef&Arpels to expand its collection.The brand has introduced rings,bracelets,and earrings,all featuring the clover pattern and set with various colored gemstones such as onyx,turquoise,mother-of-pearl,carnelian,and agate.In addition to the Vintage Alhambra series,Van Cleef&Arpels has launched several sub-series,including Magic Alhambra,Sweet Alhambra,Pure Alhambra,and Lucky Alhambra.Each series has its own unique characteristics while maintaining the brand's iconic aesthetic and philosophy of luck,catering to the personalized needs of different consumers.
Authenticating Van Cleef&Arpels Alhambra Jewelry
The Alhambra collection is highly sought after for its unique charm and exceptional quality.However,it is crucial to learn how to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit pieces when purchasing.Here are some key methods for authentication:
Metal Purity
Van Cleef&Arpels strictly uses 18k gold and platinum to create all its jewelry,including the Alhambra collection.Available in various gold types such as rose gold,white gold,and yellow gold,each piece is carefully polished to emit a dazzling shine.When purchasing,carefully inspect the quality and luster of the metal to ensure it is 18k gold or platinum,with a smooth and flawless surface.
Gemstone Quality
Renowned for its exquisite decorative gemstones,Van Cleef&Arpels is highly selective in choosing gemstones for the Alhambra collection.The diamonds used have color grades of D,E,and F,with clarity ranging from FL(flawless)to VVS2(very very slightly included).Other gemstones,such as agate,carnelian,and malachite,are also of the highest quality.The brand sources white mother-of-pearl mainly from Australia and gray mother-of-pearl exclusively from French Polynesia.When purchasing,carefully compare the color,luster,and clarity of the gemstones to ensure they meet Van Cleef&Arpels'standards.
Craftsmanship
Every detail of Alhambra jewelry reflects exceptional craftsmanship.Each piece demonstrates consistent quality and precise construction.When purchasing,carefully examine the iconic design elements and construction details,such as the polish of the metal surface,the tightness of the clasps,the regularity of the clover shapes,the clarity of the engravings and markings,and the setting of the gemstones.Genuine pieces typically exhibit fine and meticulous craftsmanship,while counterfeit items may show signs of roughness,looseness,or irregularity.
Marks and Brand Identifications
Every piece of Alhambra jewelry is marked with a serial number,brand signature,and metal hallmark.Van Cleef&Arpels uses only 18k gold and platinum for all its jewelry;therefore,any Van Cleef&Arpels bracelet,ring,necklace,or earring made of gold will be stamped with 750 or Au750.The brand used the"Van Cleef&Arpels"mark in its early days,but now"VCA"is the commonly used identifier on all pieces.When purchasing,carefully verify the authenticity and accuracy of these marks and brand identifications.The engraving locations on Alhambra jewelry vary:on necklaces and bracelets,marks can typically be found on the plaques or clasps or on the side of the pattern closest to the clasp;earring posts usually bear the trademark;and on Van Cleef rings,the hallmark is mostly located at the base of the shank.By comparing these details,you can better distinguish genuine pieces from counterfeits.