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 spring weddings, cocktail soirées or anniversary dinners, this Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Butterflies necklace in yellow gold with mother-of-pearl adds a luminous, romantic touch to refined looks—from a silk blouse to an evening 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 Sweet Butterflies Mother‑of‑pearl Necklace authentic? A: Yes. Every item at A Retro Tale is rigorously vetted by our in‑house experts and sold with our authenticity commitment. This piece also includes its box and certificate for added peace of mind.
Q: What is it made from? Is the gold solid or plated? A: Van Cleef & Arpels fine jewellery is crafted in solid 18‑carat gold (marked 750), not plated. This necklace features a yellow gold chain with a Sweet Butterflies motif in mother‑of‑pearl set in a beaded gold contour.
Q: What are the measurements and how will it sit when worn? A: The chain measures approximately 40 cm in perimeter, which typically sits at or just above the collarbone on most wearers. The pendant is about 1.1 cm (height) × 1.1 cm (width) × 0.3 cm (depth). If you’d like the precise drop on you, let us know and we’ll help you assess fit.
Q: How does it fasten, and is the clasp secure? A: It closes with a lobster clasp on a fine cable chain—easy to use and secure for daily wear. Always ensure the clasp is fully closed before wearing.
Q: What hallmarks or stamps should I expect on an authentic VCA necklace? A: Authentic pieces typically bear the “Van Cleef & Arpels” or “VCA” maker’s mark, an 18‑carat fineness mark such as “750” or “Au750,” and a unique serial number. Placement varies by model and era; our close‑up photos show any stamps present on this piece.
Q: Is mother‑of‑pearl durable for everyday wear? A: Mother‑of‑pearl is an organic gem that ranks around 2.5–4.5 on the Mohs scale, so it’s softer than many stones. It’s suitable for regular wear with care—avoid knocks, friction against harder jewellery, and exposure to moisture or chemicals to keep the surface luminous.
Q: Can I shower, swim, exercise or sleep in it? A: We recommend removing this necklace before showering, swimming, exercising or sleeping. Water, perspiration, chlorinated/salt water and cosmetics can dull mother‑of‑pearl and stress fine chains over time.
Q: How should I clean and store it? A: After wear, gently wipe with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Do not soak, use ultrasonic cleaners or chemical dips. Store it separately in its box or a soft pouch, away from humidity and direct sunlight, to minimise scratches and preserve the mother‑of‑pearl’s lustre.
Q: Can the length be adjusted or the motif serviced in future? A: A competent jeweller can add a short extender or additional jump ring to fine‑tune the drop. Van Cleef & Arpels boutiques and authorised jewellers also offer servicing; any work is subject to their assessment and fees. Alterations may affect originality and resale value—feel free to ask us for guidance.
Q: What condition should I expect and what is included? Can I return it? A: This necklace is in Very Good Condition with light signs of careful wear possible. It comes with its box and certificate. Returns are accepted under our standard policy—please see our Returns page for eligibility, timeframes and conditions, and return the item in the same condition received.
SHIPPING TO THE US
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. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
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 UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 2-4 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.
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.
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
• Yellow gold chain
• Sweet Butterflies pendant in mother-of-pearl
• Beaded gold setting
• Lobster clasp closure
• Vintage
