Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra: History, Value & Resale Guide
Launched in 1968, the lucky four-leaf-clover motif is Van Cleef's signature and one of the most coveted — and resaleable — designs in modern jewellery. What Alhambra is worth, what drives value, and how to sell yours in the UK.
What Is Your Van Cleef Alhambra Worth?
Send a photo — including the signature, hallmark and any box or papers — for a free, no-obligation valuation. We reply within one working day.
First made in 1968 and named after the Alhambra palace, Van Cleef & Arpels' quatrefoil "lucky" motif — a four-leaf clover edged with the house's signature beaded gold border — has become one of the most recognised silhouettes in jewellery. Worn by everyone from Princess Grace to today's collectors, Alhambra holds its value strongly, and genuine pieces are always in demand.
What is Alhambra?
Alhambra is a collection, not a single piece — built from the four-leaf-clover motif in several lines: Vintage Alhambra (the classic, beaded-edge motif), Sweet Alhambra (smaller), Magic Alhambra (mixed larger sizes) and Pure/Byzantine variants. Motifs are cut from mother-of-pearl, onyx, malachite, tiger's eye, carnelian or set with diamonds, on 18ct gold. Pieces run from single-motif pendants to 10- and 20-motif long necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. Genuine examples are signed VCA, numbered and hallmarked.
What drives an Alhambra's value
Stone
Malachite and diamond motifs sit above mother-of-pearl and onyx; rarer stones command more.
Motif count & line
10- and 20-motif long necklaces and Magic Alhambra outrun single-motif Sweet pieces.
Box & papers
Original certificate and box add value and reassure buyers of authenticity.
Condition
Chipped stones, worn beading or damaged motifs reduce value; clean, bright pieces are best.
What is a Van Cleef Alhambra worth in the UK?
Resale depends on line, stone, motif count and completeness — indicative bands:
Indicative only — your piece depends on line, stone, motif count, condition and papers. Send a photo for a free, accurate valuation.
Selling Your Alhambra
What we look at when buying Van Cleef Alhambra:
- Authenticity — VCA signature, serial number, hallmark.
- Line — Vintage, Sweet, Magic, Pure.
- Stone — Mother-of-pearl, onyx, malachite, diamond.
- Motif count — Pendant, bracelet, 10/20-motif necklace.
- Completeness — Box and certificate.
We buy VCA directly — fair prices, immediate payment, no auction fees.
How to sell Van Cleef Alhambra in the UK
Send clear photos of the front, the back (showing the VCA signature, serial number and hallmark) and any box or certificate. We confirm authenticity, identify the line and stone, and give an honest figure with immediate payment — no auction commission or delay. More on our sell your Van Cleef & Arpels jewellery page, and our overview of whether designer jewellery holds its value.
Van Cleef & Arpels in stock
A selection of genuine VCA currently at Mozeris:
Value Your Van Cleef Alhambra
Send photographs of the piece, the signature and any papers — we'll give you an honest, no-obligation valuation.
⚠️ Strictly by appointment only — no walk-ins at either showroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra — common questions.
Does Van Cleef Alhambra hold its value?
Yes — strongly. Alhambra has steady global demand and limited discounting, so genuine pieces resell for a healthy share of retail, especially 10–20 motif necklaces, malachite and diamond examples with box and papers.
How much is my Alhambra worth?
It depends on the line (Vintage, Sweet, Magic), the stone, the number of motifs, condition and whether you have the certificate. Send a photo for a free, accurate valuation.
Which Alhambra is most valuable?
Generally diamond and Magic Alhambra, long 20-motif necklaces and rarer stones such as malachite, above single-motif mother-of-pearl Sweet pieces.
How do I know mine is genuine?
Genuine Alhambra is signed VCA, individually numbered and hallmarked, with crisp beaded borders and cleanly set stones. Send photos of the back and signature and we'll confirm.
Can you value it on WhatsApp?
Yes. Message +44 7494 214652 with clear photos of the front, back and signature and we'll reply with a figure, usually within a working day.
Do I need the box and certificate?
No — we buy without them, but they add value and speed the sale.
Send Us Your Photographs
Attach photos of the piece, the back and the VCA signature. We'll respond within one working day.