A Collector’s Dream: Celebrating 20 Years of Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Holiday Pendants

The Magic of 20 Years

As we step into 2025, we celebrate a milestone that marks two decades of enchantment of the iconic limited-edition Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Holiday Pendant collection.

That's right two-decades!

We currently have a stunning selection of available Van Cleef Holiday pendants in stock right now. Though don't panic, if you are after a specific year why not get in touch with us and see if our amazing sourcing department can find your dream piece? 

Why the Holiday Pendants Are Iconic

Since their introduction this exquisite series has captivated hearts and jewellery enthusiasts worldwide with its unique blend of craftsmanship, rare materials, and opulent charm. Each year, Van Cleef & Arpels introduces a new design, making every pendant a testament to the brand's artistry and heritage.

For collectors and connoisseurs of luxury jewellery, the Van Cleef Holiday Pendants have become a desirable investment, rivalling the likes of iconic pieces like the Hermès Birkin in terms of value retention and exclusivity.

In this article, we'll delve into the allure of these limited-edition luxury pieces, explore their investment potential, and highlight some of the most stunning pieces from over the years, and more importantly - What we currently have in stock for you.

Do you have a VCA Holiday Pendant that you feel you are ready to part ways with, contact us today and we can help.

Do Van Cleef Holiday Pendants Hold Their Value & Make a Smart Investment?

To put it simply, yes. 

As we all know anything 'Limited edition' is always going to be a truly wise investment. The fact that this collection is also opening the door, or jewellery box should we say into a yearly sprinkling of luxury to adorn yourself with means that it can become quite the collection. As each year offers a completely unique design being inlayed with various precious stones it means each year has a completely different appeal. 

Like a one in a million shooting star....

Van Cleef Alhambra Holiday Pendant resale value

Additionally, entering into the investment of the VCA Holiday pendant also means they hold their value due to their limited numbers and general exclusivity. Often only offered to Van Cleef's VIP and regular clients; Meaning they are rare finds within the re-sale market. All of which means they hold their value making them a smart investment. 

As one of the top preloved sellers we understand what makes these pieces such a smart investment.

A Journey Through the Years: 2005–2024

So why don't we take a walk down memory lane and look at the glorious selection Van Cleef & Arpels have offered over the years. There is a holiday pendant suited to everyone, and every occasion. We always look forward to the festive period to see what Van Cleef has in store for us. 

2024 saw the release of a glorious Guilloché piece which we absolutely loved. The intricate Guilloché technique adds such a radiant, sunburst-like pattern to the 18K rose gold surface, creating an elegant texture and depth

So which holiday pendant has been your favourite so far? Be sure to let us know in the comments.

As we all know by now Van Cleef & Arpels have always been at the forefront for innovative design and expert craftsmanship within the world of fine jewellery. You can feel the anticipation build within this world awaiting the next year's release. We can all agree that this just adds to the overall enchantment of these iconic pendant necklaces. 

The Allure of the Alhambra Design

What makes this Alhambra collection so popular?

The Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra collection has long been a symbol of luck, elegance, and timeless beauty. Inspired by the four-leaf clover, its signature motif is an emblem of luck. Among its many variations, the vintage-size motif remains the most sought-after, striking the perfect balance—neither too bold nor too delicate, much like Goldilocks it is "just right".

Its sleek, versatile design makes it ideal for layering with other pieces, enhancing any jewellery ensemble. Yet, with its unmistakable charm and refined aesthetic, it also shines effortlessly when worn alone, commanding attention with understated sophistication.

Countless A-list celebrities and even royalty have fallen under the spell of the Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra collection. From Catherine, Princess of Wales, and Queen Camilla to Hollywood icons like Elizabeth Taylor, Reese Witherspoon, and Margot Robbie, the allure of Alhambra knows no bounds. Frequently spotted on these style icons, the collection’s enduring sophistication and effortless sophistication continue to captivate, solidifying its status as a symbol of luxury and refinement.

The Vintage Alhambra Holiday Pendant elevates this iconic design by the addition of a brilliant-cut diamond at the centre stage, drawing the eye into the piece and enhancing the beauty of the inlaid material with a touch of radiance. 

We can't deny what a stunning edition that diamond is to our beloved Alhambra design.

Let's journey through the dazzling world of Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendants, starting from 2010, as we explore each year's exclusive design. 

2010: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Lapis Lazuli Diamond 18K Yellow Gold 2010 Holiday Pendant Necklace

The 2010 Van Cleef Holiday Pendant featured the mesmerising Lapis Lazuli; a stunning gemstone that evokes our beautiful skies and galaxies. Framed in warm 18k yellow gold, the rich, celestial hue of the lapis beautifully complemented the timeless Vintage Alhambra design. The central diamond stands bright like a star in the night. As one of the earliest holiday pendants, this exclusive piece set the stage for a highly coveted annual tradition, making it a treasured addition for collectors and Van Cleef enthusiasts alike.

Lapis Lazuli Qualities: Geared towards wisdom and communication. Helps bring you clarity, integrity, and intuition

2011: Van Cleef & Arpels Carnelian Diamond 18K Rose Gold 2011 Holiday Pendant

In 2011, the introduction of the stunning Carnelian inlay brought a new level of elegance to the design. Known for its deep, rich red hue, Carnelian perfectly complemented the warmth of the 18K rose gold, enhancing the overall sophistication of the pendant. The diamond, set against this radiant backdrop, sparkled brilliantly, standing out beautifully and adding a touch of timeless luxury to the piece.

Carnelian Qualities: Carnelian is renowned for its symbolic meanings of warmth, strength, courage and creativity as well as healing properties such as emotional balance and physical health.

2012: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Mother of Pearl Diamond Rose Gold 2012 Holiday Pendant

Well, you can't really have a jewellery collection without having a piece that includes lustrous Mother of Pearl. The 2012 release saw a Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Mother of Pearl Diamond Rose Gold 2012 Holiday Pendant released. A sleek and versatile choice that can honestly complement any outfit, and also other pieces of jewellery. The combination of materials enhances the pendant’s delicate beauty, making it perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions. 

Mother of pearl Qualities: A stress relieving stone; it relaxes, calms and soothes the emotions helping them become more harmonious and balanced. Also known for Nurturing and maternal energy - A great choice for Mother's Day which will be here before we know it - Don't miss out (UK: Sunday 30th March 2025)

Here’s a little-known fact: Van Cleef & Arpels also released a limited number of Letterwood inlaid Holiday Pendants, making them an exceptionally rare and unique addition to the collection.

2013: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Malachite Diamond 2013 Holiday Pendant Necklace

2013 saw a Malachite inlay released. Malachite is a truly distinctive gemstone, and here at Dandelion is one of our favourites. Known for its rich green hues and unique, fingerprint-like natural patterns; making each piece one of a kind. Set in warm 18K Rose Gold, the deep green tones are beautifully enhanced, creating a striking contrast. The brilliant-cut central diamond adds the perfect finishing touch, elevating this pendant to a timeless statement of elegance and individuality.

Malachite Qualities: Emotional healing, protection, connection to nature, creativity and boosts confidence. - Well looking at this, we can guarantee the boost in confidence. 

2014: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Grey Mother of Pearl 18k Rose Gold 2014 Holiday Pendant

To us this Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Grey Mother of Pearl 18k Rose Gold 2014 Holiday Pendant has a really vintage, classic appeal. The soft, iridescent sheen of the grey mother-of-pearl adds a subtle, yet captivating depth to the pendant, making it a versatile and elegant choice for any occasion. Paired with the warm 18k rose gold, the combination highlights the natural beauty of the grey mother-of-pearl, making it an eye-catching and timeless accessory. Its refined, understated charm offers a sophisticated touch to any jewellery collection.

Grey Mother of Pearl Qualities: Dignity, patience, wisdom, progress, self-control, focus and security.

2015: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Diamond Pink Sèvres Porcelain 2015 Holiday Pendant Necklace

A fan favourite, 2015 introduced Pink Sèvres Porcelain Holiday Pendant. Featuring a delicate Pink Sèvres Porcelain inlay, framed in 18K Rose Gold, and accented by that brilliant-cut diamond, this exquisite piece truly comes to life. The 2015 offering has been a really popular choice with our clients for birthday celebrations, graduations, engagements, and other milestone celebrations—and it’s easy to see why. Its feminine charm and elegant design make it a truly memorable keepsake, perfect for gifting a loved one.

2016: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 2016 Holiday Diamond Onyx 18K Rose Gold Pendant Necklace

The 2016 Van Cleef & Arpels Onyx 18K Yellow Gold Holiday Pendant showcased the bold elegance of black onyx, offering a sophisticated reinterpretation of the brand’s iconic design. With its rich, glossy finish, the onyx added depth and allure to the pendant, while the 18K rose gold setting provided a striking contrast that made the stone truly stand out. This piece has become a popular choice, likely due to its versatility—much like the timeless little black dress, it’s a sleek, sophisticated accessory that complements any occasion.

Onyx Qualities: Protection, grounding and stability and emotional healing. 

2017: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Bullseye Diamond 2017 Holiday Pendant Necklace

2018: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Gold Mother Of Pearl Diamond 2018 Holiday Pendant Necklace

A warm release was offered in 2018 with this Golden Mother of Pearl and 18K Yellow Gold Holiday Pendant. The mother-of-pearl, prized for its iridescent sheen, brought a soft, opalescent glow to the pendant, reflecting light with subtle hues depending on the angle the light hits it. Known for its smooth texture and natural elegance, this gem added a timeless sophistication to the design. 

Golden Mother of pearl Qualities: Calming and stress-relieving properties.

2019: Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Celestial Blue Sèvres Porcelain 2019 Holiday Pendant Necklace

Well, we have got to mention this rare find. Released in 2019 this fast became a fan favourite. Featuring a rich celestial blue Sèvres porcelain inlay, this limited-edition piece captures the elegance and heritage of Van Cleef & Arpels. The rich tone of the celestial blue Sèvres are really what makes this a stand out. That deep, rich hue evokes a sense of elegance, serenity, and timeless luxury. This striking shade has been historically associated with royalty and prestige, making it a popular choice among collectors.

2020: Van Cleef & Arpels Guilloché 2020 Limited Edition Alhambra Pendant

The 2020 Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant introduced the stunning 18K White Gold Guilloché, a departure from traditional gemstone designs. This exquisite piece featured a finely engraved guilloché pattern, creating a mesmerising play of light across its surface. The intricate detailing enhanced the elegance of the Vintage Alhambra motif, giving it a luminous, almost ethereal quality. Set entirely in 18K white gold, this pendant offered a modern and sophisticated take on the holiday collection, making it a coveted piece for collectors who appreciate refined craftsmanship and timeless beauty.

2021: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Rhodonite Diamond Rose Gold 2021 Holiday Pendant

The 2021 Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant featured the enchanting Rhodonite, a unique gemstone known for its delicate pink hues and natural marbling. Set in warm 18K rose gold, this release exuded a soft, romantic elegance, making it a standout in the Vintage Alhambra collection. The gentle blush tones of Rhodonite, combined with the warmth of 18K rose gold created a harmonious and feminine aesthetic, perfect for collectors who appreciate rare and refined beauty.

Rhodonite Qualities: Often referred to as the "stone of love." It enhances your capacity for love and compassion, making building and maintaining healthy, loving relationships easier.

2022: Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Diamond Celadon Sèvres Porcelain 2022 Holiday Pendant

We also need to take a moment to admire Van Cleef's 2022 release. This Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Diamond Celadon Sèvres Porcelain 2022 Holiday Pendant obviously stands out due to the fact that year's release was crafted in 18K White gold instead of the usual 18K rose or yellow gold which when set against that sky blue Celadon Sèvres Porcelain offers a fresh and dreamy necklace that really stands out. 

2023: Van Cleef & Arpels Obsidian Diamond Rose Gold 2023 Holiday Pendant Necklace

The 2023 Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant introduced the rare and mesmerising Silver Obsidian, a striking departure from previous gemstone selections. This unique volcanic glass, known for its subtle metallic sheen and silky grey tones, brought a sense of mystery and sophistication to the Vintage Alhambra collection. Set in 18K white gold, the cool, reflective hues of Silver Obsidian created a captivating contrast, enhancing the pendant’s timeless elegance. As a highly distinctive release, the 2023 Holiday Pendant quickly became a must-have for collectors seeking something both rare and refined.

2024 Release:

The 2024 Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant marked the return of the exquisite Guilloché technique, this time in 18K rose gold, and some in white gold.

Van Cleef offer a gorgeous selection of Guilloché within their collections. It is one of our favourite choices. The intricate engraving creates a dazzling sunburst effect, and when combined with rich hues of gems like Carnelian...you can't go wrong?

Rare Find: Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra Guilloché Carnelian 18K Rose Gold Earrings

This particular set are Ultra Rare & Highly Collectible.

A pair of Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra earrings in 18K rose gold feature a stunning combination of guilloché gold and carnelian. Exquisitely crafted, the design showcases a harmonious blend of colours that exude elegance and sophistication.

Released in 2021 as a limited edition of only 150 pairs worldwide. A true collector’s piece with exceptional investment value.

So, Which has been your favourite Van Cleef Holiday Pendant release so far? - Let us know in the comments! We would love to hear from you. 

How to Buy a Holiday Pendant

So, you have decided that you must own a piece of this historical brand? What are your options?

Buying a Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant directly from the brand can be a challenging process due to their strict policies, long lead times, and high demand.

These pendants often sell out so quickly to VIP and regular clients - even before hitting the stores, making it all the more difficult to acquire one. Van Cleef are experts and have created such a buzz around each year's release meaning that getting your hands on them is all the more difficult. 

The perks of Preloved 

Purchasing pre-loved offers the opportunity to own a piece of this iconic collection. It’s crucial to buy from trusted and reputable sources, as the resale market is rife with counterfeit products.

Our expert team have years of experience within the industry and follow strict authentication processes to ensure every piece is genuine. Additionally, all items come with a lifelong authenticity guarantee card from Dandelion Antiques to provide peace of mind. Our reputation for quality and trust is paramount, so you can feel confident in your purchase. Our 5 star feedback can hopefully also help put your mind at rest. 

Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Porcelain Limited Edition Alhambra Rose Gold Necklace: "Beautiful pendant! Great Service"

Van Cleef & Arpels 2014 Alhambra Grey Mother of Pearl Holiday Pendant: "Beautiful necklace delivered as promised."

"Just wished to say a huge thank you for sourcing this beautiful piece of jewellery for me. It is wonderful to know that you offer this service, a rare thing these days.
My necklace is just perfect, the most pretty colour of celadon."

Spotting Fakes: Protect Your Investment

Sadly, within the world of luxury there are always the counterfeits doing the rounds. As one of the top sellers of second hand luxury brands such as Van Cleef & Arpels we want to ensure anyone looking to invest in these pieces have all the knowledge they need before making their purchase. Click here to learn how to spot a fake.

How to Care for Your Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant

If you are going to invest in one of these stunning pieces, then it is equally important that you know how best to care and protect your investment.

Here are some key tips to keep your pendant in pristine condition:

1. Store It Properly

When not wearing your pendant, store it in its original Van Cleef & Arpels box or pouch to protect it from scratches and dust. Keep it separate from other jewellery to avoid tangling, scratches or other damage.

2. Avoid Contact with Harsh Substances

Perfumes, lotions, and household chemicals can dull the pendant’s luster over time. Always put on your jewellery after applying beauty products and avoid wearing it while cleaning, bathing, showering or swimming, as chlorine and salt water can damage the materials. Equally long term water will effect it. 

Remember - The majority of Van Cleef Holiday Pendants are inlayed with stones that are natural materials. 

3. Clean Gently

To maintain its shine, gently wipe your pendant with a soft, lint-free cloth after each wear. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap solution and a soft brush, especially for gemstone such as mother-of-pearl. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as they can be too harsh for these delicate materials.

We would not recommend using any water or soap solutions regularly.

4. Wear with Care

While Van Cleef & Arpels pendants are crafted with exceptional quality, they are still delicate. Avoid wearing your pendant during strenuous activities or while sleeping to prevent accidental impact or strain on the chain.

By following these simple steps, you can preserve the beauty and elegance of your Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant for generations to come.

Own a Piece of Alhambra History

As we celebrate 20 years of the Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Holiday Pendants, there’s never been a better time to add one of these exquisite pieces to your collection. Whether you're a seasoned collector or discovering the magic of Alhambra for the first time, owning a piece of this iconic series is a true investment in elegance and heritage. Explore our carefully curated selection of authenticated, pre-loved Van Cleef & Arpels pieces, all backed by our lifetime guarantee. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of jewellery history—shop now and make this timeless treasure yours.

Also, be sure to learn more by reading our previous blog on the allure of Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Holiday Pendant's.

Be sure to let us know your 2025 prediction in the comments.