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 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 | About us
An elegant choice for weddings, gallery openings and refined dinners, this vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra necklace in 18k yellow gold and blue agate adds a serene touch of colour. The signature clover complements everything from a silk blouse to a little black dress.
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: Is this Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Blue Agate necklace 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 is it made from? Is it gold‑plated? A: This piece is crafted in solid 18‑carat (18k) yellow gold with a blue agate stone in the iconic Alhambra four‑leaf clover motif. It is not gold‑plated. Blue agate is a type of chalcedony from the quartz family, selected for its luminous colour and fine texture.
Q: What are the measurements and how will it sit when worn? A: The chain measures approximately 42 cm in perimeter (about 16.5 in), a classic collarbone length for most wearers. The motif is about 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm with a depth of around 0.3 cm, giving a refined, everyday scale. If you’d like the exact drop or gram weight, message us and we’ll measure it for you.
Q: How does it fasten and is the clasp secure? A: It features a lobster clasp closure. Always ensure the clasp is fully engaged before wear; a jeweller can add a short extender or secondary jump ring if you prefer a slightly different drop.
Q: What hallmarks should I expect on an authentic VCA Alhambra pendant? A: Authentic pieces typically show a clear “VCA” maker’s mark, a precious‑metal fineness stamp such as “Au750” for 18‑carat gold, and a unique serial number. Stamps are usually found on the pendant’s loop/edge and/or on the chain tag near the clasp. Lettering should be crisp and well‑aligned.
Q: Is blue agate durable for daily wear? Will the colour change over time? A: Agate rates around 6.5–7 on the Mohs hardness scale and is suitable for regular wear with care. Like many coloured stones, it can be sensitive to chemicals, heat and prolonged UV; to preserve its hue and polish, keep it dry, avoid perfumes and cosmetics on contact points, and store it away from strong sunlight when not worn. Natural stones may show subtle variations in shade from piece to piece.
Q: Can I wear it in the shower, swimming or to the gym? A: We recommend removing fine jewellery before showering, swimming, exercising or sleeping. Water, sweat, soaps and chlorinated or salt water can dull finishes and may affect gemstones over time. Put the necklace on last, after fragrance and lotions have dried.
Q: How should I clean and care for the blue agate and 18k gold? A: After wear, wipe gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. For a deeper clean, lightly dampen the cloth with lukewarm water and a tiny drop of mild soap, then wipe and dry thoroughly. Avoid chemical dips, abrasive polishes, steam and ultrasonic cleaners for stone‑set pieces. Store the necklace individually in a soft pouch/box, away from humidity and direct sunlight.
Q: Can the chain be adjusted or serviced by Van Cleef & Arpels? A: Many owners choose a small extender or an added jump ring to fine‑tune the drop; a competent jeweller can perform this with minimal impact. Van Cleef & Arpels boutiques may offer servicing or chain modifications subject to assessment and their policies. Note that alterations can affect originality and resale value, so consider non‑permanent solutions first.
Q: Is it suitable for sensitive skin? Is it nickel‑free? A: 18‑carat yellow gold is generally well tolerated and typically contains little to no nickel; however, sensitivities vary by individual. If you have known allergies, monitor comfort and keep contact areas dry; discontinue wear if irritation occurs and seek professional advice.
Q: What condition should I expect, what is included, and can I return it? A: This necklace is in Very Good Condition with light signs of careful wear possible unless otherwise noted. This listing includes no accessories unless specifically shown—our record states 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 is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 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.
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.
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 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
/ Necklaces
3 024 £
• 18k yellow gold
• Blue Agate
• Features the iconic Alhambra clover motif
• Lobster clasp closure
• Vintage
