What is the value of a vintage Van Cleef & Arpels necklace?

At what price can you find an Alhambra necklace from Van Cleef & Arpels second-hand ?

This iconic collection never stays online for long. The reason ? Its incredible popularity of a collection that has become timeless, with variations in materials that are sometimes rare in vintage and therefore ultra-desirable.

To give you a little idea of the business you could have done a few years ago:

The wonderful long necklace with twenty tiger’s eye clover patterns sold second-hand €9,800 in 2016 compared to €18,000 in 2024, an increase of 85% in 8 years… THE Alhambra necklace ten mother-of-pearl patterns, a “must have” has gone from a second-hand price of €4,400 in 2018 to €8,255 in 2024, an increase of +87% in 6 years…

 Other types of Alhambra jewelry are equally appreciated: over the same period 2016-2024, the Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra bracelet with five motifs (mother-of-pearl or onyx) went from €2,200 to €3,400, or 1.5 more.

What are the best-selling and most expensive Alhambra designs?

Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry sales preloved that we observe give pride of place to Alhambra motifs in mother-of-pearl (white or gray) and onyx, all-gold textured and pearl motifs, and of course those paved with diamonds.

Among the vintage patterns, we note models decorated with carnelian, tiger's eye, chrysoprase, and more rare, coral or turquoise lapis lazuli.
These variants reached very significant sums, such as the Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra long necklace with twenty patterns in coral from the 1970s which was sold at auction for €20,400 in 2017, the one in ivory from the same period exceeding €14,600 this year - there. A necklace composed of twenty clover motifs decorated with malachite was purchased for 16,€640 in 2018.

Also notable, the Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra necklace decorated with twenty lapis lazuli motifs was sold for €13,000 in 2019 and the one with ten lapis lazuli motifs was purchased a year later for €10,140.

Why are Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra necklaces so sought after?

The prestige of the Van Cleef & Arpels brand 

It is one of the most prestigious fine jewelry brands with a long history, a heritage of quality and exceptional craftsmanship. The pieces of this great house of High Jewelry are considered symbols of status and luxury, and also a guarantee that each piece of jewelry is designed and manufactured according to the rules of the jewelry art, of exceptional quality and great durability.

An iconic Van Cleef & Arpels design

The Alhambra pattern, inspired by the geometric patterns of Moorish architecture, is emblematic of the brand. This timeless and elegant design is recognizable at first glance and transcends trends, making it a popular choice for all jewelry and fashion lovers.

Versatility of Alhambra necklaces 

These jewelry pieces can be worn with a variety of outfits, from everyday to evening, making them suitable pieces for different occasions. Their sleek, understated aesthetic also makes them popular choices for gifts and important occasions.

Its investment value

This collection represents a true vinvestment value: Due to their quality, rarity and timeless appeal, the sales we have noted show an increase in value over time. Many people see the purchase of these designer jewelry, and particularly Van Cleef & Arpels, as a financial investment, in addition to being an expression of their personal taste and style, or even a safe haven.