We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
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Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Mother-of-pearl Earrings
Perfect for a black-tie gala or an elegant wedding, these vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra earrings in yellow gold with mother-of-pearl add luminous refinement to evening attire. Style with a sleek updo and a minimalist gown for timeless, understated glamour.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: Are these Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Earrings authentic? A: Yes. Every item at A Retro Tale is rigorously vetted by our in‑house experts and sold with our authenticity commitment. Shop with confidence.
Q: What materials are they made from? Are they solid gold? A: These earrings are crafted from 18k yellow gold (Au750) and feature natural white mother‑of‑pearl inlays. They are solid gold fine jewellery, not plated. Please review the close‑up photos to appreciate the lustre of the natural stone and the condition of the gold.
Q: What size are these earrings? A: These are the “Vintage Alhambra” size, measuring approximately 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm. This is the classic, original size of the Alhambra clover motif, distinguishing it from the smaller “Sweet” or larger “Magic” collections.
Q: How do they fasten? Do I need pierced ears? A: These earrings feature the classic VCA clip‑on closure with a detachable post. This versatile mechanism allows them to be worn on pierced ears (using the post for extra security) or on non‑pierced ears if the post is removed. The clip mechanism is renowned for being secure and comfortable.
Q: Can I wear mother‑of‑pearl in the shower or while swimming? A: No. Mother‑of‑pearl is a delicate, organic material that is highly sensitive to water, humidity, and chemicals. Exposure to water (especially hot or chlorinated water) can cause the inlay to lose its lustre or shrink over time. We strictly recommend removing them before bathing, swimming, or exercising.
Q: Is a small gap between the stone and the gold edge normal? A: Yes, this can happen with vintage pieces. Because mother‑of‑pearl is organic, it can naturally dehydrate and shrink slightly over the years, potentially creating a tiny gap between the inlay and the beaded gold border. This is a known characteristic of authentic vintage Alhambra jewellery and not necessarily a defect.
Q: How should I care for the mother‑of‑pearl and gold? A: Keep them dry and away from perfume, hairspray, and lotions. Apply cosmetics before putting the earrings on. Clean the gold gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth, but avoid using liquid cleaners or ultrasonic baths on the mother‑of‑pearl. Store them in a separate pouch or box to prevent the gold from scratching the soft surface of the stone.
Q: What hallmarks should I look for? A: Authentic Van Cleef & Arpels jewellery is typically stamped with the brand signature (VCA or Van Cleef & Arpels), the metal purity (Au750 or 750), a unique serial number, and a maker’s mark (often an eagle head on French pieces). Our listing photos show the specific stamps present on this pair.
Q: What condition should I expect and what is included? A: These earrings are in Very Good Condition (353326) with light signs of wear possible unless noted otherwise. This listing includes no accessories. Returns are accepted under our standard policy—please see our Returns page for eligibility, timeframes and conditions, and ensure the item is returned in the same condition received.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to Denmark.
We offer secure shipping via Postnord, Budbee, Instabox, Bring and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
/ Jewelry
/ Earrings
/ Clip-on Earrings
• Yellow gold hardware
• Mother-of-pearl inlays
• Alhambra clover motif with beaded edge
• Clip-on closure with detachable post
• Vintage
