Show me your Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry!

[yssie]

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!

That's really beautiful @MiniMinerva And I can see how the size and gold colour fulfill your want for barely-there in a way that a more standout version wouldn't. I'm very glad you went with your heart over prevailing recommendations - from the way you write this was the exact right choice for you!!

 

[yssie]

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.)

I personally like darker greens a lot, and I wear a fair amount of green, but I've crossed malachite off my own list. Seems like there's fragile and then there's "asking for dulling", and I've just seen and heard too much to not put malachite into the latter category! Especially if you want to wear it without having to worry too much.

I happen to have a pic of the preapproved list from the other forum. But it's from 2019 so worth asking your SA about current options. And I definitely agree with @LLJsmom, no harm done asking for whatever you want!! The worst they can say is no... In which case, well, just ask again later

 

[LLJsmom]

Here you go @RunningwithScissors:
I hope your combos are on here.

 

[RunningwithScissors]

I personally like darker greens a lot, and I wear a fair amount of green, but I've crossed malachite off my own list. Seems like there's fragile and then there's "asking for dulling", and I've just seen and heard too much to not put malachite into the latter category! Especially if you want to wear it without having to worry too much.

I happen to have a pic of the preapproved list from the other forum. But it's from 2019 so worth asking your SA about current options. And I definitely agree with @LLJsmom, no harm done asking for whatever you want!! The worst they can say is no... In which case, well, just ask again later

Thanks so much!

Looks like Onyx is pre-approved for both WG and RG -- YAY!!!

 

[RunningwithScissors]

Here you go @RunningwithScissors:
I hope your combos are on here.

Thank you!

 

[mlblake00]

Is there any way to private message anymore? I am wanting to have a ring reset like Your 5 stone and would love to ask some questions

 

[LLJsmom]

I personally like darker greens a lot, and I wear a fair amount of green, but I've crossed malachite off my own list. Seems like there's fragile and then there's "asking for dulling", and I've just seen and heard too much to not put malachite into the latter category! Especially if you want to wear it without having to worry too much.

I happen to have a pic of the preapproved list from the other forum. But it's from 2019 so worth asking your SA about current options. And I definitely agree with @LLJsmom, no harm done asking for whatever you want!! The worst they can say is no... In which case, well, just ask again later

I saw a piece of broken magic malachite at a boutique once. Hurt my soul. So I’ve been traumatized. The only malachite I would consider is for earrings, since I’ve also seen dull malachite as well, and you wear sunscreen all the time.

 

[DorotheaBrooke]

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!

This is beautiful! I love the rose gold/pave combo!! Do you plan to sometimes stack it with other necklaces? I would love to see more photos, if you have them.

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.

I'm interested to see what you end up with!

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

 

[CMN]

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

Boo. I was interested in the 10 motif all lapis strand (not alternating). I have a knack for liking the unattainable; I have NO status at VCA

Agree re the secondary market; way too risky for me.

 

[yssie]

Boo. I was interested in the 10 motif all lapis strand (not alternating). I have a knack for liking the unattainable; I have NO status at VCA

Agree re the secondary market; way too risky for me.

Oh dang it. I get it. I seem to have this problem too.

I’m definitely drawn to “hard to get”. I don’t care about popularity, in fact I’m usually more attracted to lines that are less popular, and I do need gemstones to be decent quality examples of their type, but my psyche definitely puts a premium on “hard to get”…

Well. To a point. Turquoise doesn’t flatter me, so VCA turquoise - which is very “hard to get“! - holds no appeal. And I also personally prefer VCA’s flora to their fauna. So it was with zero hesitation that I told my SA I had no interest in the new turquoise butterfly pieces… And I think those will last about five milliseconds after release, people will be clamouring for them!!

My lapis bracelet, the one I got from @diamondseeker2006, those were released a couple years ago, for the 50th anniversary of Alhambra, and there’s no chance I’d have been offered one retail at the time. I was just very lucky, a good friend had one and was looking to rehome it. And I had no worries buying from her of course!! But I wouldn’t have tried to buy from anywhere else or through anyone I didn’t know personally. Between the mind-blowing markups and the rampant replicas - nope, no way, heck no.

My SA explained that for hard to get pieces, SOs, etc., they look at both spend and brand loyalty. So buying a few pieces over a period time, learning about their stones and styles and history - the fact that someone is genuinely interested in the house and heritage matters a lot to them!! And conversely walking in one day and buying out half the boutique wouldn’t guarantee future accommodations. (Though let’s be real - those boutiques showcase a ton of high jewellery, I’m sure buying out half the store likely would in fact get you most of whatever you might want in future )

There are other collections with lapis that you might look into, if you love the stone. The Rose de Noel earrings and pendant, the Two Butterfly earrings and ring, the new Zodiaque pendant. I suspect these are going to be hard to get as well, in a “well, you might be waiting a while“ sense, but they’re regular stock - no special order games needed. I’m biased toward the mini Rose de Noel earrings, I love the design and I wear mine (MOP) so much. If they offered them in carnelian in the mini size I have to say I’d be awfully tempted to double up! Current carnelian kick thanks entirely to @LLJsmom

 

[Missie1]

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.)

 

[Missie1]

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.

I can’t wait to see the letterwood pics. I’m living thru you for the moment.

 

[Missie1]

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

Love love this with the single row. The large clover is growing on me.

 

[OdetteOdile]

Hi @RunningwithScissors I'm wondering how things went for you today at VCA. Did you reach a decision?

 

[Missie1]

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.

He is the absolute best. He will definitely allow you to place the SO from the approved list. Don’t feel intimidated I had only ordered the lucky bracelet thru online and they had him call me. He was so gracious that I called him when I wanted to get onyx wg bracelet and we took off from there. We all start with small purchase history. For each special order I have only had to give 30% down and the rest was due when it came in. Can you please advise if they are taking SO again. I want to order 10/20 motif in rg mop soon. Can’t wait to see what you ordered

 

[Missie1]

Thanks so much!

Looks like Onyx is pre-approved for both WG and RG -- YAY!!!

Yes I have it in both combinations

 

[MiniMinerva]

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.

@LLJsmom you always find a way to make me feel validated! You precisely articulated what I feel but couldn’t effectively express. I want to give you a big hug and then try on all your jewelry — I aspire to your effortless style and your thoughtfulness in curation. And perhaps like you, I like going bolder on my wrists more than around my neck!

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

@RunningwithScissors thank you so much for that sweet compliment! I am blushing over here and making this rose gold on this pendant practically disappear!

That's really beautiful @MiniMinerva And I can see how the size and gold colour fulfill your want for barely-there in a way that a more standout version wouldn't. I'm very glad you went with your heart over prevailing recommendations - from the way you write this was the exact right choice for you!!

@yssie awww thank you for bolstering my confidence in making this choice! It means a lot coming from you as I pine over everything you post…you are a gorgeous model and wear your bling with such natural panache. I think my wish list is largely composed of pieces that are in your jewelry box! I’m obsessed with your Cosmos right now (saved alllll the pics) and your Cartier orchid ring.

This is beautiful! I love the rose gold/pave combo!! Do you plan to sometimes stack it with other necklaces?

@DorotheaBrooke thank you! I tend to like diamonds in white metal but in some designs, like this one, the rose gold really highlights the artful construction. I haven’t stacked it yet (I’m not creative enough)…but I think you’re right that it would look great in with other necklaces! I’d love to hear your ideas about what pieces would compliment it in a stack!

 

[MiniMinerva]

Hi @RunningwithScissors I'm wondering how things went for you today at VCA. Did you reach a decision?

Yes, very eager to hear about your SO adventure @RunningwithScissors ! So excited for you!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Ughhh, how did I get so far behind on this thread?! I looked at all the pictures I missed and hopefully gave a to them all!!! (Some I have seen outside of PS, though!) My lack of individual comments is only because so many have been posted since I was last checking in here! I love them ALLLLLL!!!!

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

Plain metal to tone down, worn in-between? Yes! Perlee d'or!!!! Not Perlee Signature...that would be three bangles too much alike! The small Perlee d'or is just begging to be in the middle of those two beauties!

(I adore Cosmos! Definitely my favorite florals from VCA! Love both the mop and pave!)

 

[DorotheaBrooke]

@DorotheaBrooke thank you! I tend to like diamonds in white metal but in some designs, like this one, the rose gold really highlights the artful construction. I haven’t stacked it yet (I’m not creative enough)…but I think you’re right that it would look great in with other necklaces! I’d love to hear your ideas about what pieces would compliment it in a stack!
[/QUOTE]

Rose gold bezel diamond pendant! Or maybe a MOP sweet butterfly, if the YG doesn't clash. Maybe too cute for some, but flowers and butterflies naturally go together.

 

[upgradingmama]

What an amazing thread. I haven’t been here for quite some time but remember how much I enjoyed it! I got a 20 motif onyx yg last year and this little guy for my last birthday. I never take it off!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

What an amazing thread. I haven’t been here for quite some time but remember how much I enjoyed it! I got a 20 motif onyx yg last year and this little guy for my last birthday. I never take it off!

Ohh, I think we need a picture of the onyx 20! That's a piece I'd love to have, but my onyx bracelet is wg and I will not pay SO pricing to get a 20 made in wg!

 

[upgradingmama]

Ohh, I think we need a picture of the onyx 20! That's a piece I'd love to have, but my onyx bracelet is wg and I will not pay SO pricing to get a 20 made in wg!

I’ll have to take more when she’s out but here’s one for now… I feel you on the pricing for wg. That would be nuts!

 

[FL_runner]

So VCA’s website has lots of items listed as “call if interested”…. I will be able to head in to one of the stores to try on and consider as there are a few within a reasonable drive, but does that mean that things are really backlogged? Or it just depends on the item? I think I want to go with the six motif sweet in RG for my next bracelet purchase I’m not used to shopping where there are such challenges with supply!

I am also dreading it a little as Miami sales folks can be snooty, or at least it feels like it to me sometimes- I had a great Tiffany SA here but she moved on, and never vibed with anyone at Cartier here.

 

[yssie]

So VCA’s website has lots of items listed as “call if interested”…. I will be able to head in to one of the stores to try on and consider as there are a few within a reasonable drive, but does that mean that things are really backlogged? Or it just depends on the item? I think I want to go with the six motif sweet in RG for my next bracelet purchase I’m not used to shopping where there are such challenges with supply!

Definitely call ahead and see if what you want is available. The boutiques and online store have different inventory, but inventory is low across the board still.

 

[yssie]

@RunningwithScissors

Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Rose Gold SO 5-Motif Onyx Vintage Alhambra Bracelet - Ann's Fabulous Finds

Van Cleef & Arpels’ 18K Rose Gold SO 5-Motif Onyx Vintage Alhambra Bracelet looks stunning on the wrist and delivers five times the luck! The black onyx clovers measure 14 millimeters by 14 millimeters and are set in and beaded with 18K rose gold set on a delicate chain that secures with a...

www.annsfabulousfinds.com

I wonder how this compares to ordering your own SO. @Missie1 would you be comfy sharing if this is a meaningful discount?

 

[yssie]

Can I be annoying? Sorry in advance. But I just have to say (again!!) how much I love these Perlee bracelets. The new diamond single row, I was a bit worried about keeping all that pave safe - I tend to avoid pave on wrists/hands because I worry too much about all those tiny little prongs to enjoy the sparkle!!

But this bangle has the diamonds set below the rise of the beaded edge, so there’s no way to even get to them. Short of shoving your wrist into a hard and sharp corner. Indestructible pave!!

 

[RunningwithScissors]

I visited my local VCA boutique on Friday. And I'm feeling sad.

I looked at 20 motif necklaces (that's what I want for my 2022 "big" purchase). I asked about special orders and was told that VCA is only doing SOs for clients who have reached the $85,000 threshold. Doesn't matter what color/stone combo, there is no "pre-approved list". So until I reach the $85K level, the answer is no. Period.

I'm trying not to take it personally. But its been one of those weeks for me (outside of VCA) where I've felt invisible, belittled and taken for granted from just about everyone, from my spouse, to my parents, to my clients, to the people whom I volunteer a lot of time to as editor for their art journal. I can't count the number of people who have hung up on me, screamed at me, etc.

So while my rational brain knows its a new VCA policy, my emotional side says, yeah, but people are receiving special orders right and left for small things like bracelets, so why not me for a much larger order (20 motif necklace plus matching bracelet?) And I'm totally willing to place the order and pay for it up front, no returns. So my emotional side says everyone is treating me like I don't matter this week.

 

[Missie1]

@RunningwithScissors

Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Rose Gold SO 5-Motif Onyx Vintage Alhambra Bracelet - Ann's Fabulous Finds

Van Cleef & Arpels’ 18K Rose Gold SO 5-Motif Onyx Vintage Alhambra Bracelet looks stunning on the wrist and delivers five times the luck! The black onyx clovers measure 14 millimeters by 14 millimeters and are set in and beaded with 18K rose gold set on a delicate chain that secures with a...

www.annsfabulousfinds.com

I wonder how this compares to ordering your own SO. @Missie1 would you be comfy sharing if this is a meaningful discount?

hey ladies @yssie @RunningwithScissors ….this is way overpriced. Just checked my receipt and it was $5200 plus $312 tax. Total 5512. i would order from P and wait the time. It took about 5 months

 

[Missie1]

I visited my local VCA boutique on Friday. And I'm feeling sad.

I looked at 20 motif necklaces (that's what I want for my 2022 "big" purchase). I asked about special orders and was told that VCA is only doing SOs for clients who have reached the $85,000 threshold. Doesn't matter what color/stone combo, there is no "pre-approved list". So until I reach the $85K level, the answer is no. Period.

I'm trying not to take it personally. But its been one of those weeks for me (outside of VCA) where I've felt invisible, belittled and taken for granted from just about everyone, from my spouse, to my parents, to my clients, to the people whom I volunteer a lot of time to as editor for their art journal. I can't count the number of people who have hung up on me, screamed at me, etc.

So while my rational brain knows its a new VCA policy, my emotional side says, yeah, but people are receiving special orders right and left for small things like bracelets, so why not me for a much larger order (20 motif necklace plus matching bracelet?) And I'm totally willing to place the order and pay for it up front, no returns. So my emotional side says everyone is treating me like I don't matter this week.

I’m sorry to here how horrible you week has been going.….I’m flying in next week to discuss my 20 with him. I can’t believe they said no SO until you hit 85k. Im probably close to 65k. I Only want the 20 in mop RG as I’m working on a discontinued piece that comes at premium price. I was planning to get full size Clover next year So I will plan to get 20 after the clover. Also now it doesn’t seem outrageous to pay fashionPhile the 1K extra. As 85k before You can SO seems a bit high depending how far away from that you are and how much your planning to aquire.