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.
Sell your vintage bags, watches, jewelry and accessories
Give your luxury vintage item a second life. Contribute to a more sustainable fashion world by selling your beloved product to us. It’s fast, secure, and available for sellers within the EU. You receive your payment right after you accept our final quote.
Bags
Watches
Jewelry & Accessories
/
START SELLING
SALE
5%
SALE
5%
Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Hearts Carnelian Earrings
Perfect for a romantic dinner, cocktail party or wedding guest look, these vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Hearts earrings in yellow gold with carnelian hearts add a warm, refined touch to any ensemble. A charming choice for day-to-evening dressing, they bring timeless Parisian elegance to special moments.
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 Sweet Hearts Carnelian Earrings authentic? A: Yes. Every item at A Retro Tale is rigorously vetted by our in‑house experts and sold with our authenticity commitment. Buy with confidence.
Q: What are they made of? Are they solid gold with real carnelian? A: Van Cleef & Arpels fine jewellery is typically crafted in 18‑carat gold and set with genuine gemstones. Sweet Hearts earrings commonly feature 18ct yellow gold and natural carnelian. Exact composition and any hallmarks for this pair are shown in the photos—contact us if you’d like us to confirm specifics.
Q: Are they for pierced ears or clip‑on, and how do they fasten? A: Closure varies by release. Many Sweet Hearts/Alhambra heart earrings are studs for pierced ears (often with Van Cleef & Arpels “La Pousette” style backs), while some vintage models are clip‑on. Please check the close‑ups on this listing or message us and we’ll confirm the exact fastening for this pair.
Q: What size and weight are they? Will they suit everyday wear? A: The “Sweet” heart motif is petite and designed for comfortable daily wear. Please refer to the measurements on the product page; if dimensions or approximate weight aren’t listed, we’ll happily provide them on request.
Q: What hallmarks should I expect to see? A: Authentic VCA earrings typically bear the “VCA” signature, an 18ct gold mark (e.g., “Au750/750”), and a unique serial number. Stamps may appear on the earring backs, posts or clasps. Our listing photos will show any available marks and engravings.
Q: Are they hypoallergenic and nickel‑free? A: 18ct gold is generally well‑tolerated by sensitive skin, but nickel content can vary by alloy and era. We cannot guarantee nickel‑free composition. If you have sensitivities, consider using protective barrier discs and discontinue wear if irritation occurs.
Q: How should I care for carnelian and 18ct gold? A: Keep them dry and avoid contact with perfume, lotions, hairspray and sanitiser. After wear, gently wipe with a soft, dry microfibre cloth and store separately to prevent scratches. Do not use ultrasonic/steam cleaners or chemical dips on carnelian; avoid abrasive polishing on the gold.
Q: Can Van Cleef & Arpels service or polish them, or replace the backs? A: VCA boutiques may offer cleaning, polishing, earring back checks/replacements or stone services subject to assessment. Availability varies by store and condition. We can advise on next steps and recommend reputable jewellers if needed. Note that alterations can affect originality and resale value.
Q: Do they come with the original VCA box or certificate? A: Only accessories specifically listed or shown are included. While many VCA pieces are accompanied by a certificate and branded packaging, these are provided only if pictured or mentioned for this item. Otherwise, we ship securely in A Retro Tale protective packaging suitable for gifting.
Q: Can I return earrings if they don’t suit? A: Yes—earrings are eligible for return in line with our standard policy, provided they are unworn, any hygiene seals (if applied) remain intact, and the item is returned in the same condition received. Please see our Returns page for details.
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 most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
Outside EU, Åland and UK: Please note that customers outside of EU, Åland and UK are responsible upon delivery for any import duties, goods and services tax (GST), value added tax (VAT), customs fees, and any other tax on top of the A Retro Tale listed price. Delivery delays may occur due to external factors such as customs clearance, holidays etc.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Europe: 1-4 business days.
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
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.
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.
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.
/ Van Cleef & Arpels
/ Jewelry
/ Earrings
• Yellow gold
• Carnelian heart inlays
• Beaded trim
• Push-back closure for pierced ears
• Vintage
