VCA ~ Van Cleef Arpels Discussion thread!
- Thread starter Swanky
- Start date
TPF may earn a commission from merchant affiliate
links, including eBay, Amazon, and others
noticed the new lucky animals clips are on the website now...so cute
Hi Karly9 how are you enjoying your super earrings? I came across one and just wanted to see how you like it after having it a while 
Was taking a closer look at a listing on TRR for "Vintage Alhambra Super" earclips. Think it's the same one that @padmaraman_1985 and @DS2006 commented on earlier. I noticed that while they are similar to Magic size the pattern of diamonds within each clover "petal" is very different from the Magic pave earrings that are on the current VCA website, and the gold border is different too.
https://www.therealreal.com/product...diamond-vintage-alhambra-super-earclips-5kf50
I actually rather like the size variances of the diamonds on this "Super" model, but the fact that it's so different from today's Magic and Vintage pieces makes me wonder. Can anyone confirm if there was actual a Super line of Alhambra offered in the past, or if this style of pave was once more common?
I know there are many on here who have been collecting VCA much longer than me, and would be interested in your thoughts.
TRR listing on top :
Current Magic earrings on VCA website below:
Hi,
I am trying to pick Magic malachite earrings for my mom. I asked my SA for dark stone with lot of striations and my SA sent me these 3 options. Should I pick one of these or ask for other options? As a Malachite newbie, I am not aware how dark the stone would be and also if I should pick a medium tone since the stone will darken with time. Thanks!
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3
I am trying to pick Magic malachite earrings for my mom. I asked my SA for dark stone with lot of striations and my SA sent me these 3 options. Should I pick one of these or ask for other options? As a Malachite newbie, I am not aware how dark the stone would be and also if I should pick a medium tone since the stone will darken with time. Thanks!
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3
I think the lighting and angle are different in the last picture, but I think I like the bottom (3rd) set the best. The top set looks pretty good, too.
I like option 3. It is a personal preference, but I like a brighter malachite with contrast in the striating and an even appearance in the striating, matching well between the two. For me, the 2nd one does not have enough contrast and is a little dull. The first is nice but the earrings do not match as well. I think the 3rd has the prettiest pattern as well.
Thanks for the replies! I liked the 3rd the best as well.
From what I understand, malachite is a very fragile stone and it darkens with time due to oils and body chemistry. My mom uses hair oils and has long hair. Shouldn't she stay away from Malachite?
This is all they say on the VCA site:
"Malachite is a soft stone distinguished by its green color streaked with harmonious light and dark lines. Over time, this stone evolves naturally to develop a matte surface, which emphasizes its unique character.
As malachite is a naturally delicate stone, small scratches can appear on its surface. We recommend that you avoid all contact with water, which can alter its protective polish."
https://www.vancleefarpels.com/us/en/our-services/care-jewelry.html
It’s only fragile from hardness perspective compared to other stones. If it’s an earring, I don’t think it will be at risk. Now for hair, I’ve got long hair too and had no problems. As long as her hair is not dripping wet, it should be ok too, imo.
I looked on a gem site and it said that malachite is better for earrings and pendants due to the softness (will scratch). It also said it is sensitive to acid, ammonia, heat, and hot water. I didn't see anything about turning darker or lighter. I would think as long as her hair is dry and she doesn't spray hairspray after she puts them on, it would be ok.
there are photos somewhere on this forum showing what has happened to some people’s’ malachite over time.
by the way, I am planning to add some malachite pieces to my collection sometime this year, this is why I remember the photos. Gotta be prepared!