Van Cleef & Arpels · Authentication
Frivole Pendant: real vs fake
The Frivole Pendant is a flower of heart-shaped petals with a mirror polish, and it's the cleanness of that mirror polish and the crispness of the petal edges that separate an original from a copy. Replicas can't hold the sharp petal ridge or the liquid shine of the gold, and they fumble the hallmarks. Photograph the pendant for LegitCheck AI to check the petals, polish, and serial number in a minute.
What to check on the Frivole Pendant
Model-specific zones – on top of the brand-level signs.
Shape of the heart-shaped petals
The flower's petals have a pronounced heart shape with a clean, symmetrical outline. An original keeps each petal identical in shape; blurry or mismatched petals point to a replica.
Mirror polish
The petal surfaces are polished to a mirror and reflect without distortion or ripple. A dull, matte, or uneven shine on the gold is a classic fake failure.
Crisp petal edges
The edges and central ridge of each petal are sharp and defined, not rounded and smeared. Soft, blurred facets give away low-quality casting.
Hallmark and serial number
The back of the flower or the clasp is stamped with "VCA" / "Van Cleef & Arpels" and a serial number in a level, deep punch. We don't reveal the number format – what matters is the neatness of the engraving.
750 hallmark
The 750 (18k) mark should be distinct next to the maker's hallmark. A missing purity mark or a blurred stamp on the gold is reason to be wary.
Chain and clasp
Chain links are uniform and tightly soldered, and the clasp closes flush and carries a hallmark. Mismatched chain links or a visible gap in the clasp don't match the piece.
Where to inspect
The key zones to photograph and check on this type of item – a schematic, not a product photo.
- 1Hallmark and purity
- 2Engraving
- 3Stone and setting
- 4Prongs and finish
- 5Band profile
The difference is in the details – drag the slider
Typical differences in workmanship: stitching consistency, edge finishing, detail quality. Left – factory quality, right – common replica flaws.
Replica 
Authentic Photo angles for the check
- 1 Overall view
- 2 Logo / tag
- 3 Details & stitching
- 4 Material
Check your Frivole Pendant right now
Snap photos of your item and get an AI verdict with a confidence score in about a minute.
FAQ
What's most important to check on a Frivole?
The mirror polish and the crispness of the heart-shaped petal edges. An original gives a clean, undistorted reflection and sharp facets; a matte finish or rounded, smeared edges signal a replica.
Where is the serial number on a Frivole pendant?
Usually on the back of the flower or on the clasp beside the maker's hallmark. Look at the crispness of the stamp – we deliberately don't publish the number format.
Are the certificate and box enough to confirm it?
No. The set doesn't prove authenticity and is easy to swap. The petal shape, polish, edges, hallmarks, and metal purity mark decide it.
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