Editor’s Note
This article explores the enduring appeal of Van Cleef & Arpels’ iconic Alhambra collection, a symbol of French elegance and craftsmanship.
Van Cleef & Arpels’ image of French elegance and its impeccable craftsmanship are universally appealing traits. The brand’s most classic and iconic series is undoubtedly the Alhambra collection.
The design centers on the four-leaf clover motif, inspired by a charming story. Jacques Arpels, the second-generation heir of the Van Cleef & Arpels family, would collect four-leaf clovers from his garden to give to his employees. He often encouraged people with the saying, “You have to believe in luck to be lucky.” This heartwarming gesture gradually captivated the design team with the concept of luck, leading to the first use of the four-leaf clover motif in jewelry design in the 1920s. In 1968, the Alhambra jewelry was officially launched as a collection.
Characterized by identically sized clover motifs, a border of gold beads, and settings featuring various natural colored gemstones. First introduced in 1975, its classic, simple lines and symbolism of good fortune have made it immensely popular. The collection offers a wide variety of styles, from single-motif pendants to 10-motif necklaces, all eye-catching whether worn alone or layered. Notably, despite their delicate size, each clover motif requires at least 15 steps to create, including gemstone cutting, polishing, melting gold to form the beaded setting, and meticulous setting by jewelers. It is a piece of everyday jewelry that carries exquisite craftsmanship.
The main features of the Magic Alhambra are its playful details, such as clover motifs of varying sizes and asymmetrical arrangements. True to its “magic” name, it emphasizes the harmonious pairing of shapes, gold, or gemstone materials, resulting in a more whimsical style. For example, a long necklace with a single motif can be wrapped to create a double-strand short necklace. Other standout pieces with versatile styling options include drop earrings with three differently sized motifs and a between-the-finger ring featuring two differently sized motifs.
Vintage Alhambra Bracelet, Yellow Gold set with Onyx: NT$120,000
Vintage Alhambra Short Necklace, Yellow Gold set with Onyx: NT$240,000
Vintage Alhambra Short Pendant Necklace, Yellow Gold set with Carnelian: NT$88,000
Magic Alhambra Long Pendant Necklace, Yellow Gold set with Carnelian: NT$193,000
Magic Alhambra Earrings, Yellow Gold set with Green Malachite: NT$289,000
Magic Alhambra Between-the-Finger Ring, Yellow Gold set with Green Malachite: NT$220,000