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.
Ideal for weddings, garden parties or a black-tie dinner, these Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra mother-of-pearl earrings lend luminous elegance to any look. The iconic clover motif adds a refined touch from daytime receptions to evening celebrations, making them a beautiful choice for anniversaries, engagements and special occasions.
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 are they made from? Is the gold solid? A: Vintage Alhambra earrings are fine jewellery crafted in solid 18‑carat yellow gold (Au750) with genuine white mother‑of‑pearl inlay and the signature beaded Alhambra clover motif. Please review the close‑up photos and contact us if you’d like us to confirm any aspect of the composition for this specific pair.
Q: What are the measurements and how will they sit on the ear? A: Each motif is approximately 1.5 cm (height) x 1.5 cm (width) with a listed depth of about 1.0 cm. This is the classic Vintage Alhambra size that offers a refined yet noticeable presence. If you’d like the precise gram weight or a photo on ear for scale, just ask and we’ll provide it.
Q: What closure do they use—are they for pierced ears? A: This pair features a clip‑and‑post closure designed for pierced ears; the clip helps distribute weight for comfort. Some Vintage Alhambra models have posts that can be adjusted or removed—please contact us and we’ll confirm the exact configuration on this pair.
Q: What hallmarks or stamps should I expect on Van Cleef & Arpels earrings? A: You can typically expect the VCA signature, an 18‑carat fineness mark such as “750” or “Au750,” a unique serial number, and often a country of origin (commonly France). Placement varies by era and model; our listing photos show any stamps present on these earrings.
Q: Are they suitable for sensitive ears? Is there any nickel? A: Van Cleef & Arpels uses 18‑carat gold for fine jewellery, which is generally well‑tolerated and typically nickel‑free in yellow gold alloys. Sensitivities vary, so monitor comfort and discontinue wear if irritation occurs. We’re happy to advise further if needed.
Q: Can I wear mother‑of‑pearl in water or daily? A: We recommend keeping mother‑of‑pearl dry and avoiding showering, swimming, steam rooms and vigorous sport while wearing. Daily wear is fine with care—avoid impact and contact with perfume, hairspray, lotions and hand sanitiser to preserve the lustre and adhesive integrity of the inlay.
Q: How should I clean and store them? A: After wear, gently wipe with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Do not soak, use ultrasonic cleaners or chemical dips. Store individually in a pouch/box, away from humidity and direct sunlight, to help prevent scratches and potential yellowing of the shell over time.
Q: Can Van Cleef & Arpels service, polish or adjust the clips? A: VCA boutiques and authorised workshops may offer services such as clip tension adjustment, light polishing, or stone/inlay replacement at their discretion. Any modification can affect originality and resale value—contact us if you’d like recommendations for reputable specialists.
Q: What condition should I expect, what is included, and can I return them? A: This pair is in Very Good Condition with light signs of careful wear possible unless noted otherwise. This listing includes no accessories unless specifically shown or stated. 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.
We ship all orders from Sweden, and when importing to Canada your order may be subject to import duties and sales tax, which will be charged to you upon delivery by the shipping carrier.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
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 all return shipments to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Retain your shipping receipt and tracking number until the return is completed and your refund is processed. Return shipping costs will be covered by A Retro Tale, and we will provide you with a prepaid return label.
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.
/ Van Cleef & Arpels
/ Jewelry
/ Earrings
• Yellow gold
• White mother-of-pearl
• Signature Alhambra clover motif
• Clip and post closure
• Vintage