Grace Kelly wore a few pieces of the collection
Before becoming engaged to Prince Rainier III in 1956, Princess Grace had become a client of Van Cleef & Arpels. She splurged on pieces including bracelets, tiaras, earrings, clips, and necklaces from the Maison’s Alhambra collection. Her style was influenced by her love of Parisian haute couture and joaillerie. Van Cleef & Arpels was her favorite Maison for jewellery.
The Alhambra collection became a celebrity favorite in the 1970s, when Grace Kelly sported a stunning necklace in the style. Since then, the motif has been revived a few times in each decade, featuring new gemstones such as tiger’s eye and diamond. Princess Grace’s granddaughter, Princess Charlene of Monaco, added a light blue Alhambra necklace to her collection.
The collection was created by a nephew of Van Cleef & Arpels
A Dutch diamond cutter, Alfred Van Cleef was the founder of VanCleef & Arpel. He married Estelle Arpels, the daughter of a precious stone dealer, in 1895. In 1903, the couple formed VanCleef & Arpels. After the death of their brother-in-law, Salomon Arpels, they opened a Paris boutique on Place Vendome. In 1907, they added Louis Arpels, and in 1910, the Maison opened branches in Deauville and Nice.
Ballet has long been an inspiration for the house. Louis Arpels loved ballet, and his nephew Claude attended the Opera Garnier, near the Place Vendome boutique. Soon, the company introduced ballerina clips that became signature pieces. The clip-on tutu evokes the movement and style of ballet dancers, and the gold-set head ornament depicts a ballerina.
The collection celebrates its 50th anniversary
The Alhambra collection of women’s jewellery was introduced by Van Cleef & Arpel a half century ago. Inspired by a four-leaf clover motif, the design became a defining element of the ready-to-wear concept of fine jewelry. The collection incorporated a wide range of colours, motifs, and natural materials, including white gold and diamonds.
The first long necklace in the Alhambra collection was launched in 1968. The necklace was made from 20 gold creased clovers strung along an opera-length chain. It was part of Van Cleef & Arpels’ La Boutique collection and spoke of exotic travels and a new life for women. Grace Kelly, Romy Schneider, and Francoise Hardy were among the many celebrities who were spotted wearing the Alhambra collection.
Symbolism of the collection
One of the most recognizable symbols of the maison is the Van Cleef & Arpeles Alhambra collection. The iconic quatre-leaf design is a representation of good fortune. The jewelry has been worn by Princess Grace of Monaco, Francoise Hardy, and countless other celebrities. Alhambra necklaces feature a variety of gemstones, including tiger’s eye and carnelian.
The name Alhambra comes from the eight-century Moorish palace in Granada, Spain. The Alhambra is the only surviving royal territorial center of the Islamic Golden Age. It earned its name from its red walls, which are known as “al-qal’a al-hamra.” The four-leaf clover, another lucky symbol, was carved into the walls of the Alhambra. The al-qal’a is the Arabic word for “red fort.”
Finding a piece for men
When searching for a piece of jewelry, men’s style is just as important as their gender. Whether a man prefers to be casual or dressy, a classic Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra necklace is a perfect option for everyday wear. These classic pieces can be passed down through generations and come with excellent resale value. Men who prefer a more classical wardrobe should consider purchasing a vintage Alhambra pendant, which is made of polished 18-karat yellow gold. Alternatively, men can choose a pair of diamond earstuds, which feature glistening simulated diamonds in staggered rows and gold trim.
A classic Alhambra necklace features a double-sided motif that is carved into 18kt yellow gold and is linked by an 18kt link chain. The piece can be worn by a man or woman of any age and is timeless in design. It can be passed down through generations, as many pieces from the Van Cleef & Arpels line are made to be worn for a lifetime.