Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Butterfly Pendant Necklace
Jewelry (Necklace with Pendant) · Van Cleef & Arpels (VCA). Established in 1896 in Paris, VCA is one of the world's most prestigious 'High Jewelry' houses, known for its impeccable quality and iconic motifs.
Pattern: Alhambra Collection, specifically the Butterfly motif. First introduced in 1968, the Alhambra design is the brand's most recognizable signature.
Type
Jewelry (Necklace with Pendant)
Maker
Van Cleef & Arpels (VCA). Established in 1896 in Paris, VCA is one of the world's most prestigious 'High Jewelry' houses, known for its impeccable quality and iconic motifs.
Material
18K Yellow Gold with Mother of Pearl (nacre) inlay. While the user requested silver identification, this specific iconic design is traditionally executed in solid gold rather than sterling silver.
Dimensions
Pendant is approximately 15mm in width. The chain is typically 16.5 inches (42 cm) in length. Total weight is approximately 5 to 7 grams depending on the specific model and year.
Description
An elegant and instantly recognizable piece of luxury jewelry. This necklace features the iconic VCA butterfly, symbolizing luck and nature. The warm glow of the yellow gold perlée border perfectly complements the iridescent sheen of the mother-of-pearl, creating a feminine and sophisticated aesthetic.
Key Features
The signature beaded gold border, the specific butterfly silhouette exclusive to VCA, and the high-quality iridescence of the mother-of-pearl inlay.
Material & Composition
18K Yellow Gold with Mother of Pearl (nacre) inlay. While the user requested silver identification, this specific iconic design is traditionally executed in solid gold rather than sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish yellow gold finish with a 'perlée' (beaded) border around the butterfly. The central butterfly is inlaid with an iridescent white mother-of-pearl segment.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically includes 'VCA', 'Au 750' (purity mark for 18K gold), and a unique alphanumeric serial number on the clasp or pendant edge. A French eagle's head hallmark may be present on the clasp for pieces made in France.
Construction Details
Precision-cast 18k gold frame with hand-finished beaded edges. The stone/shell inlay is custom-cut and flush-set within the gold bezel. The chain is a high-quality wheat or cable link.
Functional Features
Lobster claw or spring ring clasp with a small oval identification tag. The pendant is fixed to the chain via an integrated bail to prevent the clasp from sliding to the front.
Handle & Grip Details
The clasp is a standard mechanical jewelry closure, designed for secure one-handed operation. Mother-of-pearl inlay is delicate and requires careful handling.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior craftsmanship is evidenced by the seamless fit of the organic inlay within the metal housing and the perfectly uniform spacing of the decorative gold beads.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the beaded border, depth and font of the VCA stamp, and the quality of the lobster clasp. Note: This is an extremely frequently counterfeited design; professional XRF metal testing and hallmark verification are essential.
Origin & Manufacturing
France (Paris). Manufactured in the VCA workshops or licensed high-end ateliers in Western Europe.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary. The design originated in the late 1960s as 'Daytime Jewelry' for the jet-set era and remains a timeless staple of contemporary luxury.
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to early 21st century. The specific clasp style and beaded border suggest a piece produced within the last 15-20 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of 20th-century luxury branding. It transformed high jewelry into wearable, everyday fashion for the elite and remains a status symbol worldwide.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The gold shows light surface scratches consistent with wear. The mother-of-pearl appears intact with no visible cracks, though it requires inspection for luster-loss caused by skin oils or perfumes.
Value Estimate
$2,500 - $3,500 USD for authentic pre-owned 18K gold models. Value is significantly higher with original 'Certificate of Authenticity' and receipts.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid contact with water, perfumes, and lotions which can damage the mother-of-pearl. Clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Store in its original suede-lined box to avoid scratching the gold.
Similar Pieces
Often compared to Cartier's 'Love' collection or Tiffany & Co. motifs, but the specific Butterfly shape and beaded edge are VCA trademarks. Counterfeits made of silver-gilt (Vermeil) or brass are common.
Interesting Facts
The Alhambra collection was inspired by the four-leaf clover and the Moorish tilework of the Alhambra Palace in Granada. It was popularized by style icons like Grace Kelly.