At Van Cleef & Arpels, the value of a bracelet depends as much on its material as on its model. A Vintage Alhambra five motif bracelet in white mother-of-pearl, onyx, malachite or carnelian does not belong to the same market, and some materials are no longer produced. Mother-of-pearl is the most delicate: it marks easily, can crack on impact and its iridescence cannot be restored.
Our inspection focuses on what cannot be seen in photographs: the condition of the beaded edges on each motif, the absence of micro cracks in the hard stones, the security of the settings, the suppleness and regularity of the chain, the signature and serial number on the clasp plate. Each bracelet is sold with its certificate of authenticity.
| Collection | Character | Checkpoints |
|---|---|---|
| Vintage Alhambra | Five clover motifs bordered with gold beading | Beaded edges, cracks, clasp signature |
| Sweet Alhambra | Single motif, small format | Strength of the attachment, condition of the motif |
| Magic Alhambra | Motifs in different sizes | Alignment, consistency of materials |
| Perlée | Bangles with gold beads, with or without diamonds | Regularity of the beads, clasp play |
| Frivole, Lucky | Floral and lucky charm motifs | Mirror polish of the petals, stone setting |
Copies of Alhambra are numerous and some are carefully made. Three points almost always give them away: the regularity of the gold beads bordering the motif, never perfectly consistent on a counterfeit; the finesse of the hard stone setting, which must sit flush without movement; finally, the stamping of the signature and number, clear and deep on an authentic piece. We systematically check these three points, and reject any piece for which one of them raises doubt.
Only the maison itself can work on its pieces, and lead times are long. This is why, when buying, we favour bracelets whose motifs are all sound, even if it means waiting for the right example.
The number of motifs determines the length of an Alhambra. We specify the exact length on each product page: tell us your wrist size and we will guide you.
Yes, for immediate purchase or on consignment. Send us photographs of the motifs, the clasp and its signed plate for an initial valuation.
Signed pieces sell quickly and not all of them are listed online. If you are looking for a particular model, size or material, let us know: we will inform you as soon as a matching piece arrives in the boutique. Describe your search to us or call the boutique on 06 07 10 31 64.
See also: all our Van Cleef & Arpels pieces and all our pre-owned bracelets.
Francine Joaillerie is an independent maison specialising in second-hand pieces and is not affiliated with any of the maisons mentioned.
