“To be lucky,” the French jeweler Jacques Arpels (1914–2008) once said, “you must believe in luck.” Arpels, nephew of Van Cleef & Arpels cofounder Estelle Arpels, certainly did — and nowhere is this more evident than in the Magic Alhambra necklaces, as well as in the rest of the jewelry house’s Alhambra collection, the design of which references a certain lucky charm.
A young Jacques was reportedly fascinated with searching for four-leaf clovers — a plant synonymous with good fortune — in the yard of his childhood home. His affinity for four-leaf clovers informed some of his most celebrated work at the jewelry house, which he joined in 1932. By the 1950s, Van Cleef & Arpels sought to create more everyday jewelry. Enter Jacques’s simple quatrefoil design, inspired in part by his childhood expeditions as well as the keyhole arches common in the Moorish architecture of Spain and Northern Africa. The Alhambra motif, first launched as a long necklace in 1968, is said to be named for the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain, where these archways abound. A Magic Alhambra necklace that debuted in 2006 featured six motifs of different sizes. The piece, which joined some dozens of necklaces created for the series over the years, is an artful take on Van Cleef’s most recognizable design, and its asymmetrical pattern gives the impression of the quatrefoils dancing across its wearer’s décolletage.
Early Alhambra pieces caught the attention of celebrities like Grace Kelly, and its popularity endures today, with Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, wearing earrings and a necklace from the collection to 2020’s BAFTA awards ceremony. As a result of ever-broadening enthusiasm for the line, Van Cleef & Arpels devised new riffs on the quatrefoil design in the decades since its launch.
Like many pieces created by the artisans at Van Cleef & Arpels (after all, this is the jewelry house that invented the painstaking mystery setting), the Alhambra collection owes to a mix of artistry and stunning precision. Each quatrefoil is carefully shaped and hand-set with a stone and then attached to a chain. Certain Alhambra styles — such as lapis lazuli or mother-of-pearl — require the jeweler to cut quatrefoil pieces to fit exactly into their frames, which are then secured with barely visible prongs. The result is, well, magic.
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Long Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in London, GB
- Created in 2006 by Van Cleef & Arpels, the Magic Alhambra jewellery creations gather different-sized Alhambra motifs, coming together in a joyful dance. Inspired by the clover ...
Onyx, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Necklace Blue Sèvres Porcelain 18K White Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
*Rare Find* SKU 77701911 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2012 Model VCARO2TD00 Serial Number JB****** Metal 18k White Gold Stones Sèvres Porcelain Weight 10.63 g Length 40 cm W...
18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Guilloche Magic Alhambra Necklace VCARP4KO00
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
An 18k yellow gold Van Cleef & Arpels onyx necklace from the Magic Alhambra collection. The necklace comprises of the iconic Alhambra 4 leaf clover motif with a guilloche inlay, ...
Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 2025 Blue Agate Magic Alhambra Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef Blue Agate/18k Yellow Gold Magic Alhambra Long Pendant Necklace Year of Production: 2025 Made In: France Materials: Blue agate and 18k ...
Agate, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Malachite 18K Yellow Gold Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301698 Comes With Full Set (Pouch + Card) Date 2016 Model VCARO3MG00 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Yellow Gold Stones Malachite Weight Approximately 16.2 g Length Approximat...
Malachite, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 2025 Malachite/ 18k Magic Alhambra Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpels 2025 Green Malachite/18k Yellow Gold Magic Alhambra Long Pendant Necklace Year of Production: 2025 Made In: France Materials: Malachite and 18k yellow gold Hallma...
Malachite, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Magic Alhambra Necklace VCARD79200
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A luxurious 18k yellow gold necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels from the Magic Alhambra collection. The necklace features 6 four leaf clover motifs alternating in size, set with onyx, gre...
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Carnelian & Tiger's Eye Magic Alhambra Necklace V
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
An exquisite 18k yellow gold Van Cleef & Arpels necklace from the Magic Alhambra collection. The necklace comprises of 16 iconic 4 leaf clover motifs alternating in size, set with ca...
Carnelian, Tiger's Eye, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Mother of Pearl Long Necklace 18K Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Aventura, FL
Created in 2006 by Van Cleef & Arpels, the Magic Alhambra jewelry creations gather different-sized Alhambra motifs, coming together in a joyful dance. Inspired by the clover leaf, th...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Malachite Magic Alhambra Long Necklace VCARO3MG00
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A gorgeous 18k yellow gold malachite long necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels from their Magic Alhambra collection. The necklace comprises of the iconic 4-leaf clover motif pendant set wi...
Malachite, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra 16 Motif Mother of Pearl Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra long necklace features 16 iconic clover motifs crafted from mother-of-pearl, each stone unique with its own natural color and characteristics. ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$3,450
W 0.62 in L 16.5 in
Van Cleef & Arpels Pure Alhambra Mother-Of Pearl Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This elegant Van Cleef & Arpels pendant necklace from the pure Alhambra collection features the lucky clover design crafted in 18k yellow gold and set with white mother-of-pearl. Mad...
Yellow Gold
1.35 Carat Natural Sapphire 0.08 Carat Diamond 14 Karat Gold Flower Necklace
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Type: Necklace Wearable Length: 16" Pendant:12.6 mm Metal: White Gold Metal Purity: 14K Stone Type:1.35 CT Blue Sapphire and 0.08 CT G VS2 Diamonds Hallmarks: 14K Total Weight: 4.5 G...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K White Gold Diamond Cluster "Fleurette" Station Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Diamond Cluster "Fleurette" Station Necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels. "Fleurette" 5-station diamond cluster chain necklace, with colorless round ...
Diamond, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Magic Alhambra Necklace VCARD79200
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A luxurious 18k yellow gold necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels from the Magic Alhambra collection. The necklace features 6 four leaf clover motifs alternating in size, set with onyx, gre...
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Magic Alhambra Malachite Long Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This fabulous necklace Van Cleef & Arpels from the iconic Vintage Alhambra collection features a green malachite lucky clover pendant set in 18k yellow gold completed with an adjusta...
Malachite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Malachite Magic Alhambra Long Necklace VCARO3MG00
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A gorgeous 18k yellow gold malachite long necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels from their Magic Alhambra collection. The necklace comprises of the iconic 4-leaf clover motif pendant set wi...
Malachite, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Turquoise Alhambra 20 Motif Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
The Van Cleef & Arpels 18K Yellow Gold 20 Motif Vintage Alhambra Turquoise Necklace is a true work of art. Crafted by the renowned French jewelry house, the necklace features the...
Turquoise, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
VAN CEEF & ARPELS Magic Alhambra MOP Onyx 6 Motif Yellow Gold Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite Van Cleef & Arpels necklace from the iconic Magic Alhambra collection features a 6-motif design of beaded clovers crafted in 18k yellow gold and set with Mother-of-Pea...
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef&Arpels Vintage Alhambra Necklace 10 Motifs Blue Agate 18K Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Tokyo, JP
■Item Number: TMR2412130005 ■Brand: Van Cleef & Arpels ■Reference Retail Price: JPY 1,650,000 (Tax Included) ■Product Name: Vintage Alhambra Necklace, 10 Motifs ■Model/Reference No.:...
Agate, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 20 Motif Turquoise Vintage Alhambra Necklace 18k White Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Aventura, FL
A rare and authentic Van Cleef & Arpels Turquoise 'Alhambra' Necklace creation crafted in 18K White Gold. This special necklace accompanies a Letter of Authenticity from Van Cleef & Arpels attributing to its genuineness and fine craftsmanship. Turquoise Alhambra 20...
Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Certified Natural White diamond Pendant in K18 White Gold with Platinum Chain
By HYT
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This beautiful and contemporary pendant is a sleek addition to your everyday jewelry collection. Comes with a Platinum chain. - Round Brilliant Cut White Diamond total 0.30 carat (D...
White Diamond, White Gold, Platinum
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra 16 Motif Carnelian Tiger's Eye Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301788 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2015 Model VCARN5JO00 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Yellow Gold Stones Carnelian, Tiger's Eye Weight Approximately 66.72 g Lengt...
Carnelian, Tiger's Eye, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra VIP Limited Edition Long Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
A rare and exclusive limited edition released in 2009, this Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra long necklace is crafted in 18K rose gold, showcasing a refined mix of carnelian, coral,...
Carnelian, Coral, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Mother of Pearl Necklace 18k Yellow Gold
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 77700970 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2015 RRP £6,000 Incl. Taxes / €7,050 Incl. Taxes / $6,750 Excl. Taxes Model VCARO49L00 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Yellow Gold...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra 6 Motifs MOP 18K Yellow Gold Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301678 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2015 RRP £10,000 Incl. Taxes / €11,800 Incl. Taxes / $11,300 Excl. Taxes Model VCARD9100 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Yellow Go...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra 6 Motifs MOP 18K Yellow Gold Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301678 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2015 RRP £10,000 Incl. Taxes / €11,800 Incl. Taxes / $11,300 Excl. Taxes Model VCARD9100 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Yellow Go...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Yellow Gold Magic Alhambra Necklace VCARD79200
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A luxurious 18k yellow gold necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels from the Magic Alhambra collection. The necklace features 6 four leaf clover motifs alternating in size, set with onyx, gre...
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Chalcedony Mother of Pearl 18K Gold Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301677 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2016 RRP £11,400 Incl. Taxes / €13,400 Incl. Taxes / $12,800 Excl. Taxes Model VCARN18900 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k White Go...
Chalcedony, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Mother-of-Pearl Onyx Magic Alhambra Long Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Van Cleef & Arpels "Magic Alhambra" sixteen motif long necklace, featuring carved white mother-of-pearl, gray mother-of-pearl, and black onyx stations in 18k yellow gold beaded frame...
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sold
Dm 1.03 in L 16.54 in
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Mother of Pearl White Gold Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 77701553 Comes With Full Set (Pouch + Card) Date 2014 RRP £4,450 Incl. Taxes/ €5,250 Incl. Taxes / $5,050 Excl. Taxes Model VCARN32200 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k White Gold...
Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra 6 Motifs Mother of Pearl 18k Yellow Gold Neckl
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 77701597 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2014 RRP £10,000 Incl. Taxes / €11,800 Incl. Taxes / $11,300 Excl. Taxes Model VCARD79100 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Yellow G...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Sold
Dm 0.99 in L 35.44 in
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Malachite 18K Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301591 Comes With Full Set (Pouch + Card) Date 2019 RRP £7,150 Incl Taxes / €8,400 Incl. Taxes / $8,050 Excl. Taxes Model VCARO3MG00 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Yellow Gol...
Malachite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Sold
Dm 1.03 in L 35.44 in
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Letterwood 18k Rose Gold Pendant Necklace
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 33301549 Comes With Full Set (Box + Card) Date 2018 Model VCAR03M700 Serial Number JE****** Metal 18k Rose Gold Stones Letterwood Weight Approximately 14.71 g Length Approximatel...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, Gold
