Take a seat. It’s time to get acquainted with the Alhambra collection.
Aside from simply being iconic, the Alhambra collection from Van Cleef & Arpels is one of the luckiest luxury pieces you can buy. How so? The Alhambra collection, specifically, symbolizes good fortune. And to the wearer, a good, golly time! The core pieces embody the likeness of four-leaf clovers – rare variations of the common three-leaf clover – which quite honestly, sets the standard of appeal for the iconic Maison.
And by appeal, the Alhambra collection succeeds at enticing really anyone with a penchant for good luck (and that’s everyone). But beyond that, their pieces gravitate towards those with an eye for timeless, elegant, and remarkable fine jewelry. Whether you’re lounging poolside or parading the city streets, the Alhambra collection conforms with just about any lifestyle and look. And it just so happens to fall under some of the best accessories to buy now (and if you’re ever looking to change things up, you can sell yours).
If you’re hoping for a little stroke of luck this year, look no further. There are some incredible Alhambra pieces to consider from Van Cleef & Arpels. No doubt, your growing collection will thank you. But even more so, these pieces will have you feeling as though you uncovered a pot of gold – which, depending on how you look at it, is kind of true.
About Van Cleef & Arpels
Van Cleef & Arpels was founded back in 1896 by lovers Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels. The French fine jewelry house later established its base at 22 Place Vendome in 1906, becoming the first jewelry name to open shop at this mecca for ultra-luxury. Today, it still remains there and is regarded as one of the most prestigious centers in the world.
Known for an abundance of impressive feats, Van Cleef & Arpels is celebrated for excellence. Most notably, inventing the first minaudiere designed to fit women’s everyday necessities, its patented technique known as ‘Mystery Set,’ the introduction of transformative jewelry (otherwise known as Passe-Partout), the creation of the Zip necklace, and of course, the Alhambra collection among many other notable achievements.
The Complete Alhambra Collection
Speaking of Alhambra, the collection gets its name from the Alhambra palace in Granada, Spain. Located inside were quatrefoils that inspired the creation of this iconic emblem. Since its debut in 1968, there are now a number of stunning pieces that make up this collection as we know it today.
If you thought it stopped at just Alhambra, you’re mistaken. There are subcollections within the Alhambra collection that include various pieces under all jewelry categories – rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. The subcollections include Vintage Alhambra, Magic Alhambra, Sweet Alhambra, Pure Alhambra, Lucky Alhambra, and Byzantine Alhambra.
Vintage Alhambra is most common and is true to the origins of the Alhambra line. From royalty to TV personalities, people love the Vintage Alhambra line; it is the foundation of the Alhambra collection. Magic Alhambra, introduced in 2006, can be distinguished by the various sized motifs present – think Kate Middleton and the set she wore at the 2020 BAFTA Film Awards in London. Then there is Sweet Alhambra, made in 2007, which can be distinguished by the smaller proportions of the clover motif. These daintier offerings are perfect for those more into minimalist jewelry.
Pure Alhambra pieces portray a new interpretation of the classic Alhambra motif – often characterized by its smoother edges. Pieces from this series have been offered since 2001. Lucky Alhambra, also introduced in 2006 around the same time as the Magic line, combines symbols referencing nature, such as butterflies, flowers, clovers, and stars all in various colors. Lastly, the Byzantine Alhambra collection combines solid and openwork clover motifs in gold.
What Makes The Alhambra Collection So Special?
It all comes down to the craftsmanship, and at VCA you know its top quality. The Alhambra collection features unique materials and some of the most valuable colored gemstones in the world. Sourced materials include turquoise, diamonds, rhodonite, gold, onyx carnelian, malachite, lapis lazuli, and mother-of-pearl. All materials go through a rigorous inspection process to ensure that the finished product embodies the highest standards.
Honorable mentions: Aside from the Alhambra collection, the Frivole collection evokes a magical essence with floral freshness reminding us of nature’s beauty.
