October 11, 2022

One of the most instantly recognisable motifs is the Van Cleef jewelled quatrefoil, immediately indicative of their signature range - Alhambra. 

Initially launched as a more accessible collection in 1968 for daytime wear, Alhambra jewels have grown to achieve a following rarely acheived, wide ranging from politicians, celebrities as well as our very own Queen Consort. It's wide ranging appeal is due both its simple design as well as the use of different stones, from single quatrefoils to cascading 20 motif necklaces. Celebrities such as Grace Kelly are widely known for wearing multiple necklaces at once. 

These pieces are immensely popular and can involve of a variety of hardstones such as malachite, mother of pearl, carnelian, onyx, blue agate and lapis lazuli to name a few. If going for a more statement look, they can also be found in yellow and white gold as well as bejewelled with diamonds. 

The changing popularity has resulted in many ranges, including Turquoise alhambra, to be discontinued, strengthening its desirability in the secondary market. This makes auction the ideal place to not only buy but also to sell Van Cleef (alhambra), with many pieces fetching higher than their original retail price.

We at Elmwood's have had the pleasure of selling many pieces of rare and fine Van Cleef Alhambra bracelets, necklaces, earrings and pendants in hardstones including lapis lazuli, carnelian, mother of pearl and onyx. You can see several of our exceptional prices achieved by looking below.

From left to right: sold for £4,680, sold for £10,775, sold for £1,625, sold for £13,500, sold for £4,680, sold for £7,150

As with all jewels originally purchased in a retail setting, retaining original boxes, pouches and paperwork/receipts all aid in retaining an item's value. This is increasingly true with signed pieces, which often lose their accompanyments as the jewels themselves are loved and treasured over time. Therefore it is a rarity to find pieces with all of these in the second hand market. 

However rare something may seem, Elmwood's are always here to deliver.

We have 3 Alhambra jewels, all in mother of pearl and accompanied by their boxes, pouches and receipts in our upcoming Important Jewels auction (6th December). Each one would make the perfect Christmas gift and with guaranteed Christmas delivery, you can be sure it'll arrive in plenty of time to appear under the tree.

With a global network of buyer’s and an international presence, Elmwood’s is the ideal place to both buy and sell your jewellery. With 0% seller’s fees and lifetime authenticity guarantee, you can sell, bid, buy and love with complete confidence.

Contact us today for a free, no obligation expert valuation, whether that be for a single item or an entire collection.