Van Cleef Necklace Guide: Alhambra & More

The signature Van Cleef necklace lines

Van Cleef & Arpels was founded on Place Vendôme in Paris, and its necklaces lean on a small set of motifs that are instantly legible. To see how these motifs run across the wider house, start with our guide to Van Cleef & Arpels jewellery.

Alhambra: the four-leaf clover motif framed by a beaded gold edge, a symbol of luck. It is set with stones such as mother-of-pearl, onyx, malachite or carnelian, or paved with diamonds.
Frivole: a flower of heart-shaped petals in polished or diamond-set gold, lighter and more playful in feel.
Perlée: rows of small gold beads, the same detail that edges the Alhambra, used on its own for a quieter look.

All are made in 18-carat gold, typically yellow, white or rose.

Choosing size, stone and length as a gift

Within Alhambra, scale matters more than anything else. Sweet Alhambra is the smallest and most discreet, suited to someone who wears fine jewellery daily without fuss. Vintage Alhambra is the classic single-motif pendant, and also comes as long necklaces with several motifs that can be doubled. Magic Alhambra mixes motif sizes for a more graphic piece.

A few practical pointers:

Look at what she already wears. Yellow gold with mother-of-pearl or onyx is the most versatile pairing.
A single pendant layers easily and works from office to evening. Long motif necklaces make more of a statement.
If she already owns an Alhambra piece, matching the stone to it builds a set; consider pairing with Van Cleef & Arpels bracelets.

A pendant is a considered choice for a milestone, Women's Day on 9 August, or one of our anniversary gift ideas.

What drives the price, and caring for the piece

Price depends on the line, motif size, gold weight and the stone. Smaller single-motif pendants sit at the most accessible end, broadly in the tens of thousands of rand, while long multi-motif necklaces and diamond-set versions go considerably higher. Rare stones and high jewellery pieces are priced individually. Set a range first, then choose the line and stone within it.

For care, organic and softer stones such as mother-of-pearl and malachite dislike perfume, lotions and chlorinated pool water, so put the necklace on last and take it off before swimming. Wipe with a soft dry cloth and store it flat in a separate pouch so the chain does not knot or scratch the motif.

If you have a particular line, stone or length in mind, tell us and we will come back with options.

Looking for a specific piece?

Tell us what you have in mind — the piece, size, colour or budget — and we will get back to you with options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Van Cleef necklace cost in South Africa?

It depends mainly on the line, motif size, gold weight and stone. Small single-motif pendants are at the more accessible end, broadly in the tens of thousands of rand, while long and diamond-set necklaces cost significantly more. Exchange rates also affect local pricing, so it helps to plan with a range rather than a fixed figure.

Which Van Cleef necklace is the best first piece?

A Vintage Alhambra pendant is the usual starting point because it is recognisable, easy to wear daily and layers well. Sweet Alhambra suits someone who prefers a smaller, subtler motif. Compare it with other houses in our necklaces guide.

How can I tell if a Van Cleef necklace is authentic?

Genuine pieces carry the house signature and gold hallmarks, and the beaded edge of an Alhambra motif should be crisp and even. Stones are set precisely with clean, uniform backs. When buying, ask for the full provenance of the piece and examine it closely before committing.

Van Cleef Necklace Guide: Alhambra, Frivole and Perlée