The Alhambra, the Van Cleef & Arpels clover: History and meaning

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 If you're a lover of second-hand luxury jewellery, then you're undoubtedly familiar with the Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra collection. It is THE emblematic line that embodies the timeless elegance and prestigious history of this French high jewellery house. In any case, you're bound to have seen this mother-of-pearl or coloured clover around the neck of a friend, or a celebrity (it's said that Adèle wore one during one of her concerts!). 

 

But perhaps you don't know all the history, the meaning and the multitude of variations of this iconic line.

Vintage Alhambra Van Cleef pattern: clover or four-lobed flower - alhambra van cleef history meaning

Introduction to the Alhambra :
The Van Cleef & Arpels signature trefoil

A true jewellery icon and now the signature of the Van Cleef & Arpelsthe Alhambra collection has grown steadily over the years.

The Vintage Alhambra collection, launched in 1968, has become the most famous of the French house Van Cleef & Arpels. Inspired by the four-leaf clover symbolising good luck, its name refers to the palace and gardens of the Alhambra in Granada. 

Jacques Arpels, nephew of the founders of the jewellery house, used to pick four-leaf clovers in his garden and give them as good luck charms. This was the inspiration behind the creation of the collection. The lucky symbol of the four-leaf clover appeared in the Van Cleef & Arpels archives in the 1920s. The clover motifs, symbols of luck and happiness, have become the very essence of the Alhambra Collection.

Over time the Alhambra collection has expanded, reinterpreting this timeless motif in a range of materials, colours, stones and other symbols such as hearts, butterflies and stars. 

But it all began with Vintage Alhambra and the collection's first sautoir, created in 1968.

The origins of the Alhambra by Van Cleef & Arpels

History of a Lucky Symbol

The parts 'Vintage Alhambra' are those that are faithful to the aesthetic of the collection's first sautoir, created in 1968.

The motifs are surrounded by a border of gold pearls. Inspired by the four-leaf clover, it features flower motifs originally in white mother-of-pearl with a delicate outline of gold pearls, at regular intervals on a forçat chain. The mother-of-pearl clover motif is set in gold, creating a timeless harmony.

Each piece Vintage Alhambra Van Cleef tells a unique story. Today, it is available in a wide range of materials and colours...

In 1971, Van Cleef & Arpels decided to add colour to its four-leaf clovers. The motifs are set with hard stones such as malachite and lapis lazuli. In 1998, the Alhambra collection was extended to include bracelets and watches, and the catalogue of available materials was expanded to include carnelian, chalcedony, mother-of-pearl and onyx.

Over half a century, the collection has been considerably enriched and has become a true ambassador of Van Cleef & Arpels' expertise.

Alhambra Van Cleef : the models

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 20 motif long necklace

The first genuine Alhambra long necklace appeared in 1968. Inspired by the four-leaf clover, a symbol of good luck, it's more than a talisman - it's a real everyday good luck charm. It features 20 crinkled yellow gold motifs delicately edged with gold pearls. The Alhambra necklace was an instant success, and many celebrities, including Romy Schneider, Françoise Hardy and Princess Grace of Monaco, have worn this precious lucky charm.

If you're looking for rarity and authenticity, the Vintage Alhambra sautoir - rare second-hand, and quite expensive new - is truly the legendary Van Cleef & Arpels piece.

The must-have? Wear it with a white shirt and jeans.

Authenticated pre-owned Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra long necklace - Guide to necklace lengths
Vintage Alhambra bracelet 5 designs authenticated second hand
Bracelet Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 5 designs

This bracelet with its 5 clover (or four-lobed flower) motifs is one of the most sought-after jewels in the collection. Five clover motifs in mother-of-pearl, gold or precious stones, linked by a delicate gold chain. Each design is a masterpiece in itself, capturing the essence of Parisian chic.

Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 10 motif necklace

For lovers of the ultimate in sophistication, the Alhambra 10 motif necklace is a real work of art. It combines ten clover motifs, and it's up to you to choose a vibrant colour and material. Worn alone or layered with other jewellery, this necklace is the epitome of timeless elegance. The necklace Vintage Alhambra 10 designs in gold and mother-of-pearl looks stunning on décolleté, and is the perfect length for day or evening wear. 

An ultra-chic reinterpretation of the Van Cleef & Arpels pearl necklace: a statement piece. A must-have second-hand gift.

Vintage Alhambra 10 motif necklace authenticated - Vintage Alhambra Collection Van Cleef & Arpels

Alhambra Van Cleef: colours and stones

In 1971, Van Cleef & Arpels decided to add colour to its four-leaf clovers. The motifs were set with hard stones such as malachite and lapis lazuli. In 1998, the catalogue of materials was expanded to include carnelian, chalcedony, mother-of-pearl and onyx. In half a century, the collection has grown considerably and has become a true ambassador of Van Cleef & Arpels expertise.

Vintage Alhambra Van Cleef & Arpels offers a rich and varied palette of colours, allowing everyone to find the room that suits their style and personality.

      • White Mother-of-Pearl One of the most emblematic options in the Alhambra Collection. It embodies purity and elegance, and its soft glow adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
      • Black Onyx : Synonymous with mystery and sophistication, the clover motifs in black onyx contrast beautifully with the gold, creating a striking effect that will not go unnoticed.
      • Turquoise Turquoise is a stone that evokes serenity and joy. The choice of turquoise brings a touch of bright, exotic colour to the collection, making it a summer favourite for sunny days.
      • Chalcedony or Grey Mother-of-Pearl Grey mother-of-pearl offers a subtle alternative to white mother-of-pearl. It adds a touch of softness and sophistication to the collection, ideal for those looking for understated elegance.
      • Carnelian Carnelian is a deep red gemstone that evokes passion and energy. Alhambra jewellery with carnelian motifs is perfect for those who want to make a bold statement.
      • Malachite Malachite is a striated green stone that symbolises growth and transformation. Choosing malachite for a Vintage Alhambra Van Cleef and Arpels jewel adds a vibrant touch, an echo of nature and a profound mystery to the piece. Malachite is quite rare in second-hand jewellery, but if you find it, don't let it get away.
      • Tiger eyeTiger's eye stone is known for its protection and strength. The tiger's eye trefoil motifs add an intriguing dimension to the collection, capturing the light in a unique way.       
    • Each colour variation in the Alhambra Collection brings its own meaning and charm, making it an exceptional collection. Opt for soft tones or bold, vibrant colours, discover the magic of colour or simply, collect them all !

Alhambra: the other collections in the cloverleaf

The Alhambra Collection by Van Cleef & Arpels is much more than just a jewellery line. It comes in a number of sub-collections, each with its own distinct aesthetic and charm. Here are some of the most famous sub-collections:

  • Vintage AlhambraThe sub-collection Vintage Alhambra celebrates the heritage of Van Cleef & Arpels. The shamrock motifs in mother-of-pearl, gold and precious stones are set in gold, creating a timeless, classic look. These pieces are highly prized by collectors in search of authenticity.
  • Pure AlhambraThe Pure Alhambra sub-collection is characterised by simplicity and elegant minimalism. The trefoil motifs are delicately sculpted in gold, creating a clean, modern aesthetic. This jewellery is perfect for those who prefer a discreet, sophisticated look.
  • Sweet AlhambraThe sub-collection Sweet Alhambra brings a touch of fantasy to the Alhambra Collection. The clover motifs are smaller and are often combined with coloured gemstones. These smaller jewels are also perfect for young girls, or for combining with other fine jewellery.
  • Magic Alhambra The Magic Alhambra sub-collection is synonymous with grandeur and opulence. The shamrock motifs are larger and are often combined with a variety of precious stones and pearls. Pieces for those special occasions when you want your outfit to shine. 
  • Lucky Alhambra The sub-collection Lucky Alhambra is inspired by lucky symbols from around the world. The shamrock motifs are accompanied by other lucky symbols, such as butterflies, hearts and stars. These jewels are loaded with meaning: those looking for luck and protection will know how to choose them.

Each sub-collection of the Alhambra Collection offers a unique and captivating design. Whether you're drawn to the timeless charm of Vintage Alhambra, or the elegant simplicity of Pure Alhambra, there's an Alhambra sub-collection to suit your style and personality. 

A few resources to find out more:

Official Van Cleef website

Interview 50 years of the Alhambra

The Alhambra line: a benchmark

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