Van Cleef & Arpels · Authentication
Vintage Alhambra Bracelet: real vs fake
The Vintage Alhambra Bracelet carries five clover motifs on a chain, so a fake has to reproduce the beaded edge five times over – and that's where replicas break down. An authentic piece holds identical beading and symmetry on every motif, plus crisp hallmarks on the clasp. Photograph the bracelet for LegitCheck AI to check the edges, motif spacing, and clasp in a minute.
What to check on the Vintage Alhambra Bracelet
Model-specific zones – on top of the brand-level signs.
Beading across all five motifs
The bracelet has five clovers, each framed by a row of round, even, individually defined beads. An original holds the same bead quality on every motif; if even one border is flat or fused, it's a replica.
Symmetry and motif consistency
All five clovers are equal in size and shape, with leaves meeting cleanly at the center. Mismatched or lopsided motifs give away backyard assembly.
Connecting links
The motifs are joined by short links of equal length so the clovers hang level and evenly spaced. Uneven gaps between motifs or loose links don't match the original.
Clasp and its hallmark
The clasp closes flush, with no visible gap, and carries a "VCA" hallmark and serial number with a level, deep stamp. We don't quote the number format – we assess the sharpness of the engraving.
750 hallmark
The 750 (18k) mark should be present and distinct. A blurry or missing purity stamp on the bracelet's gold is a warning sign.
Mother-of-pearl seating on each motif
The mother-of-pearl in each clover sits flush, with no gaps or glue traces. We look only at the evenness of the setting and edge, not the grade of the stone.
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 Vintage Alhambra Bracelet right now
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FAQ
How many motifs should a Vintage Alhambra bracelet have?
The classic bracelet carries five clover motifs. Check that all five match in size, symmetry, and beaded-edge quality – inconsistency points to a fake.
What should I check first on the bracelet?
The beading around the edge of all five clovers: round, even, individually defined spheres signal an original. Flat or fused beads on even one motif are a red flag.
Are the box and receipt enough to confirm it?
No, the set is not proof. Authenticity comes from the gold, the beaded edges, the hallmarks, and clasp quality – and packaging is easy to swap.
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