It's Not You...It's Your Van Cleef Alhambra.
Unique Alternatives To The Viral Jewelry Motif.
I feel like you knew this was coming.
We’ve been dating long enough for you to know I’m consistent with the drama. Ever since, It’s Not You…It’s Your Cartier Love Bracelet I’ve been itching to discuss the Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry collection. Originally created as a symbol of luck, Van Cleef’s Alhambra four-leaf clover motif has become a viral jewelry sensation. Say it with me: It’s become mainstream! Don’t you feel better when we’re honest with each other? Therefore, I’ve rounded up unique alternatives to Tik Tok’s favorite jewelry collection. Who’s the lucky one now?
If you haven’t subscribed already, now would be the time. Don’t push your luck.
You know I love a receipt, so I’ll start with the facts.
Created in 1968, the Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra collection was coveted by female tastemakers and celebrities as a symbol of luck, freedom and femininity. Alhambra was that girl. There was a slow burn in its popularity until about five years ago, when the iconic motif started popping up on influencers’ social channels and on the wrists and necks of male celebrities. Yes, I blame TikTok. In 2022, Drake even name dropped Van Cleef in his song, BackOutsideBoyz, only fueling the hype. Today, the four-leaf clover design is approaching the Cartier Love bracelet's peak of oversaturation. I’ve even seen a few of you pair the two popular bracelets together. No judgment!
Before we get into a lover’s quarrel…
If you happen to own an Alhambra design, I’m not judging you! Whether you love it or hate it, we can agree that the motif has become a recognizable luxury status symbol in the world of designer jewelry. The appeal of the statement motif is not lost on me. The designs are extremely wearable, playful, and collectible with hundreds of variations in different stones, metals, materials, and colors. I’m also not totally opposed to the Van Cleef Vintage Alhambra long necklace with 20 motifs if you have a spare $20k. Imagine it worn as a back necklace with a low back dress? I’d even consider donating an organ for this Van Cleef 1950’s watch bracelet that would glisten as I type this love letter to you. (Remind me to send this to my husband.)
However, can we move on? I think for $2800+ we should open our eyes to new possibilities. Similar to when we discussed Baccarat Rouge 540, the Alhambra motif is everywhere and on everyone! How do I say this nicely? When it comes to the Vintage Alhambra bracelet with five motifs and the Vintage Alhambra single pendant, I’m over it!
Let’s be clear…
If you’re looking for dupes, I’m not your girl. But you already knew that. However, if you want interesting alternatives that share a similar concept with the Van Cleef Alhambra motif, whether in symbolism, array of colors, or motif style, keep scrolling. Don’t you love it when I’m a bit bossy?
To be transparent, my alternatives are based on a comparison of the Vintage Alhambra bracelet with five motifs and the single pendant. The Vintage Alhambra collection is actually one of six collections under the Alhambra ‘umbrella’ and these two styles are arguably the most popular. The more you know!
An Exclusive Cartier Moment
Calm down. I told you I don’t dislike all Cartier, I just have a teeny issue with the Love bracelet okay? Similar to their competitor’s motif, Cartier claims that the design is charged with emotional power, acting as a lucky charm to carry with you. That is only if you’re lucky enough to find one. Sorry to break your heart (again) but the Amulette de Cartier collection is being discontinued and not available online in the U.S. However, the necklace is still available in France and the U.K. Yet another reason to move! Luckily, 1stdibs carries a collection of bracelets and necklaces in different precious materials and colors to quench our thirst. To be honest, I love when jewelry plays hard to get.
A Decorative Statement
Before you come for me, I know the Opera Collection by Buccellati is the most obvious alternative. It’s also coincidentally owned by Richemont, the same parent company as Van Cleef. I debated whether to include it given the very distinct similarities to the Van Cleef Vintage Alhambra collection, in motif, price point and design. However, the Opera Tulle bracelet and necklace offer a more decorative and vintage feel that are different enough not to be a dupe. The textured gold and colorful enamel elements are statement making without feeling over the top.
More Luck
Messika’s Lucky Move collection captures the same idea as Van Cleef’s Alhambra. The concept of adorning yourself with a symbol of luck is offered in a range of metals, colors and stones such as lapis, onyx and turquoise, making them perfect for stacking. The motif feels contemporary without trying too hard. Simply, if Alhambra is at the club in Mykonos, Lucky Move is at the villa pool in Serifos. Purchase accordingly.
Lucky Charms
The idea of a lucky motif à la Alhambra can also be applied to a lucky charm à la Foundrae. The bracelets and necklaces can be completely customized depending on your chosen talisman with a range of symbols and colors. I love the idea of collecting charms over time to add to your neck or wrist. I’d like to think the three pillars of our budding relationship are faith, hope and love. Luckily Foundrae’s four heart clover charms symbolize just that. You see, I’m always thinking of you.
Colorful Motifs
Part of Alhambra’s appeal is the the array of colorful stones that can be mixed and matched. Jenna Blake’s Mariner necklaces and bracelets modernize a vintage motif and are offered in different hues such as lapis, rose quartz and malachite. If you’re not feeling as bold, Sauer offers a smaller, but still colorful motif with their Frames pendant and bracelet. I’ll take one of each, thank you.
It’s me, not you.
I know today it’s not you, it’s your Van Cleef Alhambra. However, last week I was the one to blame for my little absence from Substack. Sometimes in a relationship you need a little ‘me’ time, but hopefully I’ve made it up to you. I’d like to think my absence made your heart grow fonder. Don’t worry though, we’ll be back on our normal dating schedule with a newsletter every Friday as planned. I know you missed me so leave a comment to say hi. I’ll respond…If you’re lucky!
XO XO
Grace
Loved this and I know you were unsure, but I’m so glad you included the Buccellati Opera (I think it’s a much more fabulous option)
Great suggestions!! Another great option is the Bee My Love pendants from Chaumet. For something fun and contemporary I like Ole Lynggaard, Sydney Evan, Jennifer Meyer. Repossi - antifer necklace seems nice too.