Van Cleef & Arpels: A Symphony Of Elegance In The New Alhambra Collection
The new Alhambra Collection by Van Cleef & Arpels exemplifies the brand’s jewellery craftsmanship and expertise, particularly in the selection of stones and the use of diverse materials and hues. A key feature of this collection is the guilloché motif, which has been a part of the Maison’s aesthetic since the early 20th century. Introduced to the Alhambra collection in 2018 for its 50th anniversary, the guilloché motif is known for its sunbeam-like streaks that texture gold surfaces, creating captivating luminous reflections when paired with ornamental stones or diamonds.
Blue agate, a form of translucent chalcedony, is another standout element in the collection, first incorporated in 1989. Van Cleef & Arpels places a high emphasis on the quality of the blue agate, selecting stones with a pure material composition, intense colour, and a lustrous surface. Each piece is carefully matched to create harmonious ensembles, with slight natural variations in opacity adding unique charm to each creation. The blue agate motifs are bordered by a beaded contour, a hallmark of the Maison’s style, which accentuates the combination of the guilloché texture and the deep blue stone.
A notable addition to the collection in 2023 is the Vintage Alhambra reversible ring. This piece reflects Van Cleef & Arpels’ tradition of creating versatile jewelry. The ring features two faces: one in guilloché yellow gold set with a diamond, and the other in blue agate, surrounded by a double-beaded contour that mirrors the collection’s design codes. The ring’s body consists of three rows of cascading golden beads, securing the central motif, with a mechanism that allows it to rotate smoothly. The design also includes a half-round band of gold that ensures a comfortable fit, while the height of the close-set diamond is carefully calibrated to maintain comfort and the stone’s brilliance.
The Sweet Alhambra watch, an evolving part of the collection since 1998, brings together guilloché yellow gold and blue agate in its latest iteration. The creation of this piece involves fifteen meticulous steps, from the initial selection of rough stones to the final polishing. Each motif is set within a beaded frame that is crafted with precision by skilled artisans, and the watch is polished to a high shine to enhance its visual appeal.
Overall, the new Alhambra Collection demonstrates Van Cleef & Arpels’ dedication to combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative design, resulting in jewellery pieces that are both elegant and versatile.
Read more at www.vancleefarpels.com.
