Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Pendant 18K Rose Gold 15mm VCARN9ZS00
Faithful to the very first Alhambra® jewel created in 1968, the Vintage Alhambra creations by Van Cleef & Arpels are distinguished by their unique, timeless elegance. Inspired by the clover leaf, these icons of luck are adorned with a border of golden beads.
Metal: 18k rose gold (7.2 grams)
REFERENCE: VCARN9ZS00
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Pendant VCARN9ZS00 Review
In this article, I’ll discuss three of the key factors that make Van Cleef & Arpel jewelry so special. The quality of craftsmanship, cultural climate and design of the Alhambra motif are just a few of the features that make this piece so unique. If you’re interested in purchasing this unique piece, read on to discover more.
Fine Jewels
The Van Cleef & Arpel, or VCA, Maison was founded by Alfred Van Cleef and his wife, Estelle. Their passion for beauty fueled their entrepreneurial ventures, which culminated in the opening of their first boutique in 1906. Since then, VCA has been crafting unique fine jewelry and watches, often inspired by nature.
The Alhambra is one of the most famous jewelry designs, and it has been a signature style for Van Cleef & Arpel since 1963. A new version was introduced in the aughts, when long chains became popular. During this time, many famous people have embraced the look, including Reese Witherspoon, Sharon Stone, Mariah Carey, and Kelly Rutherford.
Quality of workmanship
This pendant has an 18k white gold chain and ten chalcedony motifs set in a celebrated round bead setting. Inspired by the clover leaf, the necklace has a border of golden beads around the pendant. This piece is a classic addition to any jewelry collection and sells for an average price of $9,440.
The company was founded in Paris in the late 19th century. Their timeless designs have earned them worldwide attention. The company’s designs and craftsmanship have been recognized in numerous exhibitions, including one in the Cooper-Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum in New York in 2012. Their collections have also been featured in the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, California, and the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris. The history of Van Cleef & Arpels is rich and storied, but the brand is best known for its necklaces.
Influence of cultural climate
The Alhambra pendant is a symbol of luck and protection. Its four-leaf clover shape dates back to 1968 and has been worn as a pendant ever since. Today, the Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra collection is enriched by a variety of materials, colors, and symbols.
The Alhambra was unveiled during the cultural revolution of May 68. The uprising of students in France against consumerism, capitalism, and the government led by Charles de Gaulle resulted in a seven-week economic collapse. The Alhambra motif has become synonymous with the brand, and its meaning has become an instant icon. The motifs and colors used in the necklace evoke a message of good fortune and prosperity.
Design of the Alhambra motif
The design of the Alhambra motif on Van Clement & Arpels Vintage Alumbra Pendant VCARN9ZS00 was first introduced in 1968 on a 20-motif yellow gold opera-length necklace. The necklace quickly gained in popularity with the jet set. A fan of the brand, actress Grace Kelly wore multiple Alhambra necklaces, often accompanied by matching pendants.
The vintage Alhambra collection has been redesigned and updated over the years, with new stone designs introduced each decade. The collection has since featured a variety of gemstones, from feminine mother-of-pearl to turquoise. Its popularity has made it one of the most sought-after collections for collectors.
The Van Cleef Alhambra motif is one of the most recognizable symbols of the maison. This quatre-leaf-clover motif is symbolic of good luck and is found on a variety of pieces in the brand’s collection. It is worn by famous personalities like Princess Grace of Monaco and Francoise Hardy.
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Pendant 18K Rose Gold 15mm VCARN9ZS00
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