Show me your Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry!

[Missie1]

And lucky last This is actually a copycat piece. @LLJsmom was looking at the Perlee single row diamond bracelet last year, and I tried it on a few times to take photos to send her... And somewhere along the line I fell for it too. So this one's me shamelessly copying her inspiration

RG, small size.















I love that these bangles can sit flush if you put them on so the latches are pointing in opposite directions. I want the Signature and the d'Or bangles as well but no rush on those. And... Stacking three wouldn't let them all sit flush...

- - - - - - - - - -

Omg I absolutely love love this stack. Your collection is absolutely amazing. I need to try this combo next time I’m at a store.

 

[yssie]

@Missie1 Yes to the letterwood!! I know that we have similar colouring and the reddish brown is so flattering Blacks and whites are very stark on me, they tend to wash me out. The letterwood reads “dark” but even in low lighting it retains a warmth that my skin picks up like a sponge If I could magically bring any old stone back into regular stock… Hmm. Toss-up between this and coral. You bet I’d be buying a twenty as well either way and “don’t wear necklaces” be d*mned

I hope you find that bracelet soon!!

 

[canuk-gal]

One more of the Cosmos just because

Because FLOWERS!

 

[Missie1]

@Missie1 Yes to the letterwood!! I know that we have similar colouring and the reddish brown is so flattering Blacks and whites are very stark on me, they tend to wash me out. The letterwood reads “dark” but even in low lighting it retains a warmth that my skin picks up like a sponge If I could magically bring any old stone back into regular stock… Hmm. Toss-up between this and coral. You bet I’d be buying a twenty as well either way and “don’t wear necklaces” be d*mned

I hope you find that bracelet soon!!

OmG the coral is the absolute best. Now I’m hunting for the letterwood.

 

[LLJsmom]

OmG the coral is the absolute best. Now I’m hunting for the letterwood.

Yes I get that. I love the coral too.

 

[RunningwithScissors]

Had a great time in Paris and could not resist coming back with the Frivole pendant.

I’m also excited to share my SO 10 motif WG VA.

I LOVE your new pieces!!!

Wow, I've never seen the SO WG necklace before. (Dang, another item to add to my wish list!!!)

Would really love to see neck pics. Such classy, beautiful pieces!

 

[LLJsmom]

Quick v-day reveal. It actually has nothing to do with v-day cause we requested this nine months ago but my WG and carnelian finally came in. I’ve been just hoarding it because it’s the most stunning VCA stone and gold combo I’ve ever seen. VCA matched these stones perfectly and they are also the perfect shade to match the WG. I could not be happier and only wonder…why did I wait so long. I don’t see myself stacking this one. The red and white combo is dramatic and powerful. Maybe it will just take some time adjusting.

 

[carbonfan]

Quick v-day reveal. It actually has nothing to do with v-day cause we requested this nine months ago but my WG and carnelian finally came in. I’ve been just hoarding it because it’s the most stunning VCA stone and gold combo I’ve ever seen. VCA matched these stones perfectly and they are also the perfect shade to match the WG. I could not be happier and only wonder…why did I wait so long.

Your new bracelet is gorgeous, @LLJsmom! It is truly the perfect pop of color, and I absolutely adore that vibrant carnelian on you. You can definitely rock this amazing piece, and it is stunning as a stand-alone! And what perfect timing, too! I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's day, and please feel free to indulge us with many more photos!

 

[LLJsmom]

Your new bracelet is gorgeous, @LLJsmom! It is truly the perfect pop of color, and I absolutely adore that vibrant carnelian on you. You can definitely rock this amazing piece, and it is stunning as a stand-alone! And what perfect timing, too! I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's day, and please feel free to indulge us with many more photos!

Thanks Carbonfan! I love this bracelet so much. Here are some more. One is just candy they sent.

 

[MK514]

Quick v-day reveal. It actually has nothing to do with v-day cause we requested this nine months ago but my WG and carnelian finally came in. I’ve been just hoarding it because it’s the most stunning VCA stone and gold combo I’ve ever seen. VCA matched these stones perfectly and they are also the perfect shade to match the WG. I could not be happier and only wonder…why did I wait so long. I don’t see myself stacking this one. The red and white combo is dramatic and powerful. Maybe it will just take some time adjusting.

Oh my gosh, that is stunning!

 

[Missie1]

Thanks Carbonfan! I love this bracelet so much. Here are some more. One is just candy they sent.

This is simply stunning. I love love the wg it just pops the stone.

 

[MiniMinerva]

Quick v-day reveal. It actually has nothing to do with v-day cause we requested this nine months ago but my WG and carnelian finally came in. I’ve been just hoarding it because it’s the most stunning VCA stone and gold combo I’ve ever seen. VCA matched these stones perfectly and they are also the perfect shade to match the WG. I could not be happier and only wonder…why did I wait so long. I don’t see myself stacking this one. The red and white combo is dramatic and powerful. Maybe it will just take some time adjusting.

I can see why you’ve been hoarding it. It looks surreal. The color of that carnelian is like intense velvet…the richness and depth juxtaposed with the sharp, bright WG border is perfectly dramatic indeed. Just smoldering with power, and you wear it so well!

 

[Rubies-R-Me]

Oh the finery!!! The letterwood.. I have never seen anything like that. It's just glorious.
The earrings.. the bangles.. wow wow wow!!
It all looks just AMAZING on you. You truly have a model jewelry colllection and you are a truly a jewelry model!!

 

[Rubies-R-Me]

Thanks Carbonfan! I love this bracelet so much. Here are some more. One is just candy they sent.

Oh my goodness!!! The 3 bracelets together is what VCA dreams are made of. They combo is SO striking. A true WOW!!!!!! Extra fun that you received it on VD! Enjoy it all.. just fabulous.

 

[Rubies-R-Me]

Had a great time in Paris and could not resist coming back with the Frivole pendant.

I’m also excited to share my SO 10 motif WG VA.

A trip to Paris AND a glorious necklace!! Life is good!! Enjoy it all!

 

[Rubies-R-Me]

I am so happy! This gorgeous pendant showed up the day before the snowstorm hit our area…. I’ve been wearing pajamas for days …. And also this pendant! I tried to show how it looks against my skin in different lights. Part of my years-long waiting game was determining what metal color I should focus on for this first purchase. The guillotine was so striking to me from the time it was introduced, and I feel as though I have a miniature piece of art with the history of the 50th anniversary of Alhambra. It’s special! I plan to have it lengthened. Maybe when I visit a boutique and also bring home a bracelet.

The necklace looks fabulous on you! I agree that the guilloche is truly like a work of art!

Happy belated New Years/early Valentine’s Day everyone!

Happy belated New Year and now almost belated VD to you too! Gorgeous necklace!!

 

[RunningwithScissors]

Quick v-day reveal. It actually has nothing to do with v-day cause we requested this nine months ago but my WG and carnelian finally came in. I’ve been just hoarding it because it’s the most stunning VCA stone and gold combo I’ve ever seen. VCA matched these stones perfectly and they are also the perfect shade to match the WG. I could not be happier and only wonder…why did I wait so long. I don’t see myself stacking this one. The red and white combo is dramatic and powerful. Maybe it will just take some time adjusting.

Oh my goodness that is GORGEOUS!!!

Wow, so elegant. I adore this! Congrats on a lovely new addition to your VCA wardrobe!

 

[LLJsmom]

Oh my gosh, that is stunning!

@MK514 thank you so much.

This is simply stunning. I love love the wg it just pops the stone.

@Missie1 thank you so much. The red does totally pop.

I can see why you’ve been hoarding it. It looks surreal. The color of that carnelian is like intense velvet…the richness and depth juxtaposed with the sharp, bright WG border is perfectly dramatic indeed. Just smoldering with power, and you wear it so well!

@MiniMinerva Thank you so much. Intense velvet is a perfect way to describe it.

Oh my goodness!!! The 3 bracelets together is what VCA dreams are made of. They combo is SO striking. A true WOW!!!!!! Extra fun that you received it on VD! Enjoy it all.. just fabulous.

Thank you @Rubies-R-Me. It is so much fun!

Oh my goodness that is GORGEOUS!!!

Wow, so elegant. I adore this! Congrats on a lovely new addition to your VCA wardrobe!

Thank you @RunningwithScissors!

 

[yssie]

@LLJsmom Wow.

I’ve saved all your photos.

Y’know. I always thought carnelian was nice enough. It didn’t call to me, particularly, but it also never turned me off...

But oh my goodness *you* saw what I never did. Carnelian in white metal done right is such a compelling combo. And VCA did it right!! If they’d put slabs of the stone out and asked you to choose your favourite hue - I think that what they chose for you, without any specific instructions at all, is probably exactly what you’d have chosen yourself!! It’s definitely what I’d have chosen too. It’s just red. Uncompromising and unadulterated red.

And you have exactly the right skin for this combo!! I love your description. Bold and powerful. But I do have to say… I agree that overpowers your onyx and chalcedony. It’s just such a strong colour, that’s where the eyes go first, they can't help it. Can I request some photos of it stacked with your WG Perlee bangle?

Okay, well. Now I know that I need some carnelian in WG. Thank you. I’m always so waffly but your SO has totally solidified my wishlist. I love your new bracelet so much. You have no idea. Well actually maybe you do have some idea OMG gorgeous. Thank you for sharing!!!!

 

[LLJsmom]

@LLJsmom Wow.

I’ve saved all your photos.

Y’know. I always thought carnelian was nice enough. It didn’t call to me, particularly, but it also never turned me off...

But oh my goodness *you* saw what I never did. Carnelian in white metal done right is such a compelling combo. And VCA did it right!! If they’d put slabs of the stone out and asked you to choose your favourite hue - I think that what they chose for you, without any specific instructions at all, is probably exactly what you’d have chosen yourself!! It’s definitely what I’d have chosen too. It’s just red. Uncompromising and unadulterated red.

And you have exactly the right skin for this combo!! I love your description. Bold and powerful. But I do have to say… I agree that overpowers your onyx and chalcedony. It’s just such a strong colour, that’s where the eyes go first, they can't help it. Can I request some photos of it stacked with your WG Perlee bangle?

Okay, well. Now I know that I need some carnelian in WG. Thank you. I’m always so waffly but your SO has totally solidified my wishlist. I love your new bracelet so much. You have no idea. Well actually maybe you do have some idea OMG gorgeous. Thank you for sharing!!!!

Girl, WE are NO GOOD for each other. (Your single row...My carnelian...your cosmos...)

Though in all seriousness, I CANNOT. WAIT. for any carnelian and WG witchcraft you've got coming.

Thank you. You are so sweet. The red is wonderful. Ahhh. Good idea about the perlee. I'll do that. The red and black is too severe, and it completely overpowers the chalcedony. I think a WMOP might be the solution. I'll just throw that on the list too. Ok...I just need to be good for another 6 months...

In the meantime, random pics of your stacked beauties would not be unwelcome. Could I ask for some letterwood pics, if you happen to be in the sun or in your car? I'm kinda fascinated by that piece.

 

[CMN]

Hi All,

Does anyone know whether VCA has stopped making the Alhambra necklace in Lapis? It is not showing up on the Australian version of their website.

Thanks.

 

[MiniMinerva]

This withers in comparison to the special pieces and lovely photography from everyone here, but I don‘t believe I’ve seen one of these posted so I thought I would give a literal mini share!

I’ve been enjoying this mini Frivole lately, even though I struggle with wearing necklaces. The goal was a barely-there insouciant everyday necklace that would meld with the skin, approximating the floating solitaire look but with a sculptural twist. Its bloom sits tame and demure in the hollow of the neck on the shorter setting, whereas the longer setting untethers its expressive character, allowing it to glimmer as it rocks subtly on its pointed back in response to movement. I also appreciate that its outlined borders and 3D construction help keep the diamonds away from skin oils between cleanings.

I waited a long time to bring this one home due to the wise prevailing advice to purchase the small/vintage instead of the mini sizes. This decision wasn’t for the purpose of cost-saving…after trying both sizes I genuinely felt more drawn to the mini Frivole pendant because I just couldn’t get used to the presence of a pendant on me for everyday life. Maybe I’ll outgrow this “gateway” pendant someday, but perhaps for now it fills a niche? It’s weird — I love the size of the small Frivole earclips, and part of me feels pretty silly for having two Frivole pieces that don’t go together (different sizes and metals). I also normally prefer diamonds in white metal, but I didn’t love the mini WG version (too small, Frivole design was lost). Anyway, sorry for venting about my indecision, thank you for letting me share, and apologies that I can’t post a more zoomed-out modeling photo!

 

[LLJsmom]

This withers in comparison to the special pieces and lovely photography from everyone here, but I don‘t believe I’ve seen one of these posted so I thought I would give a literal mini share!

I’ve been enjoying this mini Frivole lately, even though I struggle with wearing necklaces. The goal was a barely-there insouciant everyday necklace that would meld with the skin, approximating the floating solitaire look but with a sculptural twist. Its bloom sits tame and demure in the hollow of the neck on the shorter setting, whereas the longer setting untethers its expressive character, allowing it to glimmer as it rocks subtly on its pointed back in response to movement. I also appreciate that its outlined borders and 3D construction help keep the diamonds away from skin oils between cleanings.

I waited a long time to bring this one home due to the wise prevailing advice to purchase the small/vintage instead of the mini sizes. This decision wasn’t for the purpose of cost-saving…after trying both sizes I genuinely felt more drawn to the mini Frivole pendant because I just couldn’t get used to the presence of a pendant on me for everyday life. Maybe I’ll outgrow this “gateway” pendant someday, but perhaps for now it fills a niche? It’s weird — I love the size of the small Frivole earclips, and part of me feels pretty silly for having two Frivole pieces that don’t go together (different sizes and metals). I also normally prefer diamonds in white metal, but I didn’t love the mini WG version (too small, Frivole design was lost). Anyway, sorry for venting about my indecision, thank you for letting me share, and apologies that I can’t post a more zoomed-out modeling photo!

I love the mini sizes in pendants for exactly the reasons you gave. I think different people have different purposes for pendants. The mini is subtle and provides just a hint of sparkle on the neck. It does not vie for attention, but it’s still interesting. I think it’s perfect for your purposes. I feel the same way about pendants. I don’t want them to distract people from looking me in the eye. It’s a lovely choice.

 

[RunningwithScissors]

This withers in comparison to the special pieces and lovely photography from everyone here, but I don‘t believe I’ve seen one of these posted so I thought I would give a literal mini share!

I’ve been enjoying this mini Frivole lately, even though I struggle with wearing necklaces. The goal was a barely-there insouciant everyday necklace that would meld with the skin, approximating the floating solitaire look but with a sculptural twist. Its bloom sits tame and demure in the hollow of the neck on the shorter setting, whereas the longer setting untethers its expressive character, allowing it to glimmer as it rocks subtly on its pointed back in response to movement. I also appreciate that its outlined borders and 3D construction help keep the diamonds away from skin oils between cleanings.

I waited a long time to bring this one home due to the wise prevailing advice to purchase the small/vintage instead of the mini sizes. This decision wasn’t for the purpose of cost-saving…after trying both sizes I genuinely felt more drawn to the mini Frivole pendant because I just couldn’t get used to the presence of a pendant on me for everyday life. Maybe I’ll outgrow this “gateway” pendant someday, but perhaps for now it fills a niche? It’s weird — I love the size of the small Frivole earclips, and part of me feels pretty silly for having two Frivole pieces that don’t go together (different sizes and metals). I also normally prefer diamonds in white metal, but I didn’t love the mini WG version (too small, Frivole design was lost). Anyway, sorry for venting about my indecision, thank you for letting me share, and apologies that I can’t post a more zoomed-out modeling photo!

Gorgeous! And such a pretty color on you. Enjoy!

 

[RunningwithScissors]

I am trying to decide what my one major purchase will be for 2022. One of the possibilities is a 20 motif necklace.

Will you all help me understand the special order process so I don't look like a fool when I visit my SA tomorrow?

1. How much is the special order premium? (And yes, I know it is substantial.)

2. Does my SA have to lobby the VCA mothership on my behalf?

3. Will they likely to say no because my purchase history with them has not been substantial? (I've only bought two pairs of earrings and one bracelet, none of which were expensive by VCA standards.)

I want to go in armed with information. My SA has always been a perfect gentleman and treated me very well. BUT, I'm feeling bruised recently by my experience with other SAs (and people in my life) so I want to know what challenges I may face.

 

[LLJsmom]

I am trying to decide what my one major purchase will be for 2022. One of the possibilities is a 20 motif necklace.

Will you all help me understand the special order process so I don't look like a fool when I visit my SA tomorrow?

1. How much is the special order premium? (And yes, I know it is substantial.)

2. Does my SA have to lobby the VCA mothership on my behalf?

3. Will they likely to say no because my purchase history with them has not been substantial? (I've only bought two pairs of earrings and one bracelet, none of which were expensive by VCA standards.)

I want to go in armed with information. My SA has always been a perfect gentleman and treated me very well. BUT, I'm feeling bruised recently by my experience with other SAs (and people in my life) so I want to know what challenges I may face.

Hi RWS, it's pretty straight forward. You would just let your SA know the specific combo you are interested in, and he would submit the request. What exact combo are you looking for? There are some combos that are already "pre-approved". That means that VCA will most likely make it, but it does require the premium. That is the case with onyx and WG now. It used to be not on the pre-approved list, back when I ordered it, but it's there now. Chalcedony and WG is another, and there are a bunch of others. You don't really need to worry about those. The WG and carnelian is not on that list, so I was worried they would say no.

Right now, my SA told me VCA is not accepting special orders, but it NEVER hurts to ask. And even if VCA is not, it does not hurt to let your SA know that the second VCA starts accepting special orders again, you want to submit one. That way your SA knows you're a serious collector. They like to help you plan as well.

What combo are you looking for? I think the pre-approved list is somewhere on this thread.

The premium is around 30%. Actually the premium on my carnelian was the lowest premium I've paid, just a tiny bit over 30% of the current retail. So I was fine with that. For my onyx and WG, I think I paid close to 45%. And the solid WG was around 40%. For a 20 motif, the total price will be significant. I couldn't say what it would be.

So the SA submits the request. If you already have a piece with that combo the chances of getting approved are higher. The SA would include that info with that request. Theoretically this would apply only to a situation like mine, when I request WG and carnelian earrings in the future, since I already have the bracelet. If your combo is already "pre-approved" it probably will not be an issue. But just because you don't have that combo already AND it's not on the pre-approved list does not mean it won't be approved. Don't let that stop you. If you know what you will love, go for it. I have a friend who is doing an SO that I've never seen before, and I think VCA will do it. It's just a matter if you want to pay the premium. Also, I don't think your not having a super long purchase history matters. I've seen people who have purchased less than you get approved for an SO.

It can take from 2 weeks to almost 3 months to hear back. Before the pandemic, my solid WG and WG and onyx approvals only took 2-3 weeks. The carnelian and WG took almost 3 months (during pandemic). When they approve they will give you a price. Then if you want it, you pay 50%, and they start production. They approved mine in August, and they told me it would be at least 6 months, and they were right on time. When done, you pay the remaining balance. There are people that have rejected their SOs, so I think that is an option if you don't like it when you receive it. I never have myself. I don't know whether it is recommended that you reject a SO piece. But people will have their preferences.

I hope this helps. FWIW, I think you'll be approved when they accept SOs. But don't let that stop you from putting a bug into your SA's ear. My SA knows what SOs I want and will help me strategize when to place the request, and how to plan out the timing of my other purchases. Good luck and let us know how it goes!

 

[RunningwithScissors]

Thank you so much @LLJsmom! Very helpful and thorough explanation.

I haven't decided on the stone color/gold color combo yet. I have narrowed it down to a few non special order combos and few special order ones. I am willing to pay the premium if it is a combo that will go with more of my wardrobe and look "better" on me in general.

If you know if any of these are on the pre-approved list, please let me know (I'll also ask my SA when I see him tomorrow.)

Special order combos I'm considering:

Onyx & RG (I loved the bracelet @Missie1 posted)
Onyx & WG (I loved your bracelet! You said this one is pre-approved now, yay!)
Carnelian & RG (I love the sweets in this combo)
Carnelian & WG (again, yours is TDF!)

Regular ones (non special orders) I'm also considering:

All RG
Malachite & YG (I love the color but I'm worried about the fragility of the stone. In TX I always wear heavy sunscreen on my neck & upper chest so the motifs will get greasy. For this reason I don't wear my good pearls in the daytime at all, and have a set of what I call "sunscreen pearls." I don't want a 20 motifs to be relegated to only evening wear.)

 

[yssie]

Girl, WE are NO GOOD for each other. (Your single row...My carnelian...your cosmos...)

Though in all seriousness, I CANNOT. WAIT. for any carnelian and WG witchcraft you've got coming.

Thank you. You are so sweet. The red is wonderful. Ahhh. Good idea about the perlee. I'll do that. The red and black is too severe, and it completely overpowers the chalcedony. I think a WMOP might be the solution. I'll just throw that on the list too. Ok...I just need to be good for another 6 months...

In the meantime, random pics of your stacked beauties would not be unwelcome. Could I ask for some letterwood pics, if you happen to be in the sun or in your car? I'm kinda fascinated by that piece.

WG/WMOP. Okay that works. But you already have the hammered WG, does that serve the same niche for you? “White” and/or “neutral”.

I have to say, blowing the bling budget to smithereens does wonders for self control. Window shopping is a much less appealing pastime when there's nothing left to spend

I really want to see your new carnelian paired with your Perlee and your hammered WG… Ohh and how does your turquoise butterfly hold up with it? That’s a bright colour too…

I’ll wear the letterwood next time the sun shows up. It’s been a few days since I’ve seen it! The wood is gorgeous in sunlight, it turns reddish. But y’know what, I’m realizing that I wouldn’t want letterwood earrings even if I could get them, they wouldn’t show up on me. #Revelations! You mention your odds of being approved for carnelian and WG earrings being higher since you have the bracelet... Now those would certainly show up on you. Cough, cough.

 

[yssie]

Couple quickie pics for this thread I've been wearing this bangle stack every single day!! My absolute favourite bracelets I think they tend to give off a #ThatsALot vibe in pictures but IRL they really actually don't look like "too much" together! Well, in my oh so humble opinion, anyway I would like some plain metal to tone it down further though. The Signature is creeping up the wishlist

 

[yssie]

Hi All,

Does anyone know whether VCA has stopped making the Alhambra necklace in Lapis? It is not showing up on the Australian version of their website.

Thanks.

Yeah. Lapis Alhambra is basically impossible to get hold of retail - impossible without significant status. And even then I believe the only non-SO offering is the alternating pave twenty motif (and I'm not sure if that is still available in any capacity either!). You can still go secondary market of course... But I'm leery of that, lapis is highly coveted so fakes abound