A Special Alhambra with a Diamond at its Center

Since its launch in 1968, Van Cleef & Arpels' Alhambra has been loved by many women for its simplicity, femininity, and the timeless beauty of its four-leaf clover motif.

For the 2010 Christmas season, a limited edition 'Vintage Alhambra Pendant' will be released, featuring a lapis lazuli pendant top adorned with diamonds.

The word 'lapis' in lapis lazuli comes from the Latin for 'stone,' and 'lazuli' is derived from the Persian word for 'blue' or 'sky.' Its defining characteristic is a vibrant blue, like a piece of the sky captured in stone. In ancient Egypt, it was revered as a sacred stone possessing supernatural powers, and in Japan, it has long been treasured as 'ruri,' one of the seven precious substances in Buddhism. Even today, it is widely known as a power stone that enhances intellect and attracts good fortune.

The Alhambra with a diamond at its center is a rare, limited-edition model, making it highly valuable. It will undoubtedly create an elegant atmosphere, whether paired with a matching ring or worn on its own. Wearing it is sure to bring a special feeling.


Van Cleef & Arpels
Tel. 03-3569-0711

BRAND HISTORY
In 1896, the history of Van Cleef & Arpels began when Estelle Arpels, daughter of jeweler Leon Arpels and an expert in gems, married Alfred Van Cleef, the son of an Amsterdam diamond merchant, uniting beauty, charm, talent, and elegance.

In 1906, Alfred Van Cleef, in collaboration with his brothers-in-law Charles and Julien, established Van Cleef & Arpels at 22 Place Vendôme in Paris. Even today, over a century later, Van Cleef & Arpels continues to uphold the brand's creative spirit in the world of high jewelry. The fusion of the finest stones and unwavering craftsmanship creates sublime jewelry where femininity, allure, and grace are harmoniously balanced.

The technique that cemented Van Cleef & Arpels' name is the Mystery Set, patented in 1933. In the Mystery Set, the prongs supporting the stones are virtually invisible, thereby enhancing the beauty of the perfectly cut gemstones.

For Van Cleef & Arpels, nature is the greatest source of inspiration. Motifs from the natural world—clovers, leaves, butterflies, stars, and snowflakes—are transformed into vibrant jewelry as if 'frozen in time mid-motion.' Furthermore, materials from the world of haute couture, such as lace, tassels, embroidery, and ribbons, are also expressed as jewelry motifs using the highest quality precious stones.