- 301
Diamond 'Magic Alhambra' Necklace, Van Cleef & Arpels, France
Estimate
25,000 - 35,000 USD
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Description
- Van Cleef & Arpels
- diamonds, platinum
Composed of 16 variously sized clover motifs pavé-set with round diamonds, length 49 inches, signed Van Cleef & Arpels, numbered JB130165, with French assay and workshop marks.
Condition
In very good condition. Signed Van Cleef & Arpels, numbered JB130165, with French assay and workshop marks. Stamped G750 for 18 karat white gold. The diamonds, weighing a total of approximately 14.60 carats, range from approximately D-F color, IF- VVS clarity. Bears a nice weight, and can be wrapped around the neck several times for variety of wear.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
Since its 1968 debut, Van Cleef & Arpels’ Alhambra necklace has become the emblem of the elite maison, favored by 'best dressed' list mainstays of past and present such as Princess Grace of Monaco and Françoise Hardy. Adorned with quatrefoil motifs drawn from the royal splendor of Moorish architecture, the four-leaf charms double as symbols of luck, health, fortune, and love, and are crafted in a range of auspicious materials gathered from all over the world. This diamond-set ‘Magic’ version—the most luxurious produced by Van Cleef & Arpels—is an essential piece in every stylish wardrobe.
This particularly sumptuous example truly carries the Alhambra’s lucky aura. Seven years ago, the piece caught the eye of a fashionable lady rifling through a thrift shop; the necklace was assumed to be set with rhinestones or crystals, and was purchased for only $25. Later, when her children inherited the necklace in a box of costume jewelry, they noticed a remarkably similar piece in a Van Cleef & Arpels advertisement. Upon entrusting the necklace to Sotheby’s, the family was elated to discover the precious rarity of their quite lucky ‘Magic’ Alhambra necklace.
This design, and the fortunate story that accompanies it, serves as a reminder that jewels can be iconic not just for their appearance, but also for the emotions associated with wearing them.