Created in 1968, the Alhambra line is built around a four lobed motif edged with gold beading, available in white mother-of-pearl, carnelian, onyx, malachite, turquoise, grey mother-of-pearl or guilloché gold. It is the maison's signature jewel, worn equally as a long sautoir or as a five motif bracelet.
On the second-hand market, the quality of an Alhambra is first seen in the stone: the consistency of the mother-of-pearl, the depth of the malachite, the absence of cracks in the carnelian. Next comes the condition of the gold beads edging each motif, whose wear reveals years of use. Our selection brings together certified authentic pieces, checked one by one, in materials that are not always continuously available new.
| Model | What defines it | What to check before purchase |
|---|---|---|
| 20 motif sautoir | Iconic length, worn single or doubled | Original clasp, consistency of the stones |
| 10 motif necklace | Mid length, highly versatile | Exact length, condition of the chain |
| 5 motif bracelet | The most commonly worn format | Fit, wear to the gold beads |
| Earrings | One motif per ear | Fastening system, matching of the two stones |
| Vintage Alhambra | Motifs larger than the Sweet model | Hallmarks and signature, period consistency |
Not all Alhambra materials command the same value on the second-hand market. White mother-of-pearl remains the most sought after for its versatility, malachite and turquoise are becoming rarer, and onyx often offers the best balance between presence and price.
Mother-of-pearl and malachite are sensitive to cleaning products and perfumes applied directly to the jewel. A soft, dry cloth after each wear is enough to preserve their lustre for decades.
The size of the motif. Vintage Alhambra is the historic format, larger; Sweet Alhambra is noticeably smaller and is often worn as a fine bracelet.
Yes, a workshop can remove motifs, but the operation reduces resale value. We recommend choosing the desired length from the outset.
Van Cleef & Arpels signature, hallmarks, serial number, regularity of the gold beads and quality of the stone. Each piece undergoes this inspection before being listed online.
Signed pieces sell quickly and not all 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. Tell us about your search or call the boutique on 06 07 10 31 64.
See also : pre-owned Van Cleef bracelets, Van Cleef necklaces, earrings and all our Van Cleef & Arpels jewellery.
Francine Joaillerie is an independent maison specialising in second-hand pieces and is not affiliated with any of the maisons mentioned.
