Last April, I received an onyx vintage alhambra pendant as a gift purchased off the secondhand market which did not bother me because it was in brand-new condition. I’ve worn it happily for over a year now but recently took it to my jeweler for cleaning (don’t live near VCA boutique currently)…jeweler asked me gently if I was aware my item was not genuine as I told him it was a gift…Apparently he works with VCA a lot. My item is actually real 18k gold, the motif is spot on, but he says the chain links of the necklace are slightly thinner than authentic, and the VCA engraving on the clasp is a different font.
This has really annoyed me to say the least…I’m planning on replacing it but need help deciding between the Cartier 2 diamond Love necklace and another (authentic lol) VCA Vintage alhambra (onyx, carnelian, or all gold).
Cartier pros/cons: I tried this on in store (forgot to take pics) but I absolutely loved how it fell on my neck, the shorter chain length was awesome as I’m somewhat petite. I love the double strand feature as well. I also—and I get more into this below—appreciate the subtlety of the design; it’s not as common as a love bracelet imo and isn’t too flashy. Although there are no cons here I guess My concern is getting this and then MISSING the slight flashiness hahaha
VCA pros/cons: Having already owned it I know I’ll love it, I think the colored stones or hammered gold stand out a bit more on my skin rather than just plain polished gold, the clover design is also slightly more feminine imo. Cons; I don’t like taking my necklaces off ever (my 14k/18k gold layering pieces always stay on) and the upkeep required of VCA stones is probably a barrier to this (although honestly onyx and carnelian are the hardiest stones, so I’d wear them 24:7 and pay to replace if needed…) Last con—I wore my VCA all the time this year (as a college student) but next year I’ll be graduating and entering the workforce. As a junior level employee I really want to keep my jewelry subtle, and I feel like wearing a VCA to the office everyday is a bit flashy? No the vintage itself is not a super over the top piece but I do think it’s more recognizable (as an expensive item) than the Love necklace which unlike its bracelet counterpart is less common. So I worry about not getting everyday wear from it…but on the other hand I know I loved my old one so much. Lol. Help and input appreciated!
