Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Long Necklace, 18K Yellow Gold, Mother-of-Pearl, 90 cm

A single clover of white mother-of-pearl, edged in gold beads, hung from a fine 18K yellow gold chain 90 cm long.

The Piece

Van Cleef & Arpels was founded in Paris in 1906, and the four-leaf clover of its Alhambra line, first shown in 1968, remains the house's best-known motif.

The clover is a slice of mother-of-pearl framed in beaded gold and joined to the chain by a bead-edged bail. A small tag on the chain is stamped VCA Au750, the house initials and the mark for 18K gold, and the chain closes with a lobster clasp.

The chain is about 90 cm (35.4 in) long, the clover about 2.6 cm (1.0 in) across, and the necklace weighs 16.4 g (0.58 oz). It comes with its case, box and certificate.

Details

• Maker: Van Cleef & Arpels
• Model: Magic Alhambra long necklace, ref. VCARO49L00
• Material: 18K yellow gold, mother-of-pearl
• Measurements: Chain length 90 cm (35.4 in); motif 2.6 cm (1.0 in); weight 16.4 g (0.58 oz)
• Colour: Yellow gold and white
• Fastening: Lobster clasp
• Included: Necklace, case, box and certificate

Condition

• Grade A in Japan: very good, with no conspicuous marks or soiling.
• Few signs of use are noted.

Condition grade A (good) on the Japanese scale; see Japanese condition ranks, explained.

Authenticity & Care

Season stamps, plate engravings, clasps and plating are examined together and documented in Japan before dispatch. Every piece carries the Japonista authenticity guarantee. Keep it boxed or in a soft pouch away from perfume and hairspray, and wipe with a soft dry cloth only; never use metal polish on plated finishes.

Delivery from Japan

Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Every sale is final; please ask anything before you buy, and see our published policy.

Length and width are measured by hand, in centimetres, and a chain falls differently on every neck. Lay a chain you already wear along a tape measure and allow a little margin, the quiet safeguard on a final sale. Our necklace length chart shows each length from 40 to 75 cm as it is worn, and for anything it leaves open the curator team replies within one Tokyo business day.