Yellow Gold Tone Clover Motif Alhambra-Style Fashion Necklace
Necklace with multiple clover/quatrefoil pendants · Yellow gold tone; likely a flash-plated alloy over stainless steel or brass providing a deep yellow saturation.
Purity: Indicated as gold-plated or base metal; visible tag is partially obscured but suggestive of 'S.STEEL' or '18KGP' rather than solid gold.
Type
Necklace with multiple clover/quatrefoil pendants
Purity
Indicated as gold-plated or base metal; visible tag is partially obscured but suggestive of 'S.STEEL' or '18KGP' rather than solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow gold tone; likely a flash-plated alloy over stainless steel or brass providing a deep yellow saturation.
Weight
Estimated 8-12 grams total weight; light construction suggests a fashion jewelry weight class.
Description
This necklace features five quatrefoil clover motifs in a 'Magic' or mixed-size arrangement. The contrasting black and white inlays offer a graphic, sophisticated look intended to mimic high-end luxury jewelry at an accessible price point.
Key Features
Quatrefoil design, beaded borders, alternating color inlays, and a branded or material-identified hang tag near the clasp.
Color & Finish
High-polish yellow gold finish with a reflective, warm golden hue; pendants feature iridescent and opaque decorative inlays.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A flat oval metal tag near the clasp contains stamped lettering. While blurry, it does not match the standard 'VCA' and serial number markings of authentic Van Cleef & Arpels; often indicates 'STAINLESS STEEL' or a generic manufacturer mark.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard 16-18 inch (40-45cm) chain length; clover motifs range from approximately 9mm (Sweet size) to 15mm (Vintage size).
Gemstones & Inlays
Faux or lower-grade Mother of Pearl (white) and Onyx/Enamel (black) inlays; framed by beaded 'perlee' gold-tone borders.
Clasp & Closure
Lobster claw clasp of standard commercial grade; lacks the refined integration and specific signature of high-jewelry houses.
Chain & Links
Basic cable link/forçat chain; machine-assembled with visible wire loops connecting the motifs to the chain.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-made cable chain with stamped pendant frames. Inlays are glued into settings rather than precision-fitted. Beading on the borders is uniform but lacks the hand-finished crispness of high jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags include the quality of the lobster clasp, the style of the hang tag (authentic VCA does not use this specific type of flat oval tag), and the luster of the 'gold' which appears overly orange-yellow for solid 18K.
Origin & Maker
Likely a mass-produced fashion accessory from East Asia; inspired by Van Cleef & Arpels but lacking authentic brand identifiers.
Era & Period
Contemporary (21st Century); a modern fashion piece inspired by the iconic 1968 Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra design.
Age Estimate
Produced within the last 5-10 years based on the popularity of the motif and standard findings used.
Cultural Significance
The four-leaf clover is a universal symbol of luck, with each leaf representing health, wealth, love, and happiness.
Condition Notes
Good condition; the gold plating appears intact, though light surface scratches are visible on the metal surfaces and inlays. Grading: Fair (Fashion Grade).
Value Estimate
Primarily aesthetic/fashion value. Estimated retail $15-$40. It holds negligible gold melt value as it is likely a plated base metal.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemicals, perfumes, and water which can cause the plating to wear or the inlays to loosen. Clean only with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Store in a separate pouch.
Similar Items
Authentic Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Necklace (Solid 18K Gold), luxury 'inspired' costume jewelry, or artisan-made sterling silver gilt versions.
Interesting Facts
The clover motif was popularized by Princess Grace of Monaco in the 1970s and has since become one of the most recognized jewelry silhouettes in the world.