We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence | About us
Perfect for romantic dinners, weddings, or elevating everyday style, this Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Alhambra bracelet in gold with carnelian heart motifs lends warm, timeless elegance to any ensemble.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: Is this Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Alhambra Carnelian Hearts Bracelet authentic? A: Yes. Every item at A Retro Tale is rigorously vetted by our in‑house experts and sold with our authenticity commitment. Shop with confidence.
Q: What is it made from? Is it solid gold? A: Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra fine jewellery is crafted in solid 18‑carat gold with natural ornamental stones—in this case, carnelian heart motif(s). It is fine jewellery in precious metal, not gold‑plated costume jewellery. If you’d like us to confirm hallmarks and composition on this exact piece, just ask.
Q: What are the measurements and will it fit my wrist? A: This bracelet is listed to fit an approximately 17 cm wrist or smaller. The motif on Sweet Alhambra pieces is petite—around 1 cm—so it sits delicately on the wrist. Many Sweet Alhambra chain bracelets include a small adjustment ring to shorten the fit; if you’d like the precise wearable length and inner circumference for this piece, message us and we’ll measure it for you.
Q: What hallmarks or stamps should I expect on a VCA Alhambra bracelet? A: Genuine VCA pieces typically bear the brand signature (“Van Cleef & Arpels” or “VCA”), a gold fineness mark such as “750” (18‑carat), and a unique serial number; many also show country of origin (often France) near the clasp tag. Our close‑up photos will show any marks present on this bracelet.
Q: Is carnelian durable for everyday wear? Will the colour vary or fade? A: Carnelian is a variety of chalcedony with a respectable hardness (commonly cited around 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale), suitable for regular wear with sensible care. Natural carnelian ranges from orange‑red to deep red‑brown; slight variations from stone to stone are normal. To preserve lustre and colour, avoid knocks, high heat and prolonged direct sunlight when storing.
Q: Can I wear it in the shower, pool or sea? A: We recommend removing fine jewellery before bathing, swimming or exercising. Water, chlorine, salt and soaps can dull stones, stress clasps and accelerate surface wear on gold over time.
Q: How should I care for carnelian and 18‑carat gold? A: Keep it dry and away from perfume, lotions, hand sanitiser and household chemicals. After wear, gently wipe with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners and chemical dips. Store individually in a pouch or box to prevent scratches and minimise friction with other pieces.
Q: Can it be resized or adjusted? A: Minor length adjustments are sometimes possible (for example, adding a small jump ring or shortening the chain) through a specialist jeweller; feasibility depends on the exact chain layout and motif spacing. We don’t modify pieces in‑house, but we’re happy to advise and recommend reputable specialists. Please note that alterations can affect originality and resale value.
Q: How does Sweet Alhambra compare to Vintage Alhambra? Can I stack them? A: Sweet Alhambra motifs are petite (often around 9–10 mm) and very delicate; Vintage Alhambra motifs are larger (around 15 mm) and make more of a statement. Many clients enjoy stacking a Sweet bracelet with other Alhambra sizes or with slim bangles—just be mindful that friction between pieces can produce fine hairline scratches on gold.
Q: What condition should I expect, what is included, and can I return it? A: This bracelet is in Very Good Condition, with light signs of careful wear possible unless noted otherwise. Only accessories specifically shown or stated are included; this listing is delivered with no accessories unless explicitly mentioned. Returns are accepted under our standard policy—please see our Returns page for eligibility, timeframes and conditions, and ensure the item is returned in the same condition received.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
