Van Cleef & Arpels' Alhambra Collection Shows Us That Blue is Our Lucky Colour
This year, Van Cleef & Arpels’ iconic Alhambra motif gets a refreshing burst of summertime blue thanks to blue agate.
"Something borrowed, something blue" may be a wedding-day tradition, but Van Cleef & Arpels is giving us a reason to keep that lucky blue close all year round. With the addition of blue agate to its Alhambra collection, the maison breathes new life into one of its most beloved motifs—this time with a crisp, modern twist. The Sweet Alhambra watch and the reimagined Vintage Alhambra reversible ring stand at the heart of this seasonal refresh, radiating charm, versatility, and subtle exuberance.
Since its debut in 1968, the Alhambra has become a symbol of luck and timeless elegance. In 2018, Van Cleef & Arpels marked the collection’s 50th anniversary with the introduction of guilloché gold—an engraved surface that reflects light with a mesmerising sheen. This year, that glowing yellow gold meets the cool vibrancy of blue agate, creating a striking contrast that feels fresh and full of character.
The Ring That Works Overtime
First up: the Vintage Alhambra reversible ring. It's an understated powerhouse that understands the modern pace of life. You’re running from a morning meeting to evening drinks—and this ring adapts effortlessly. One side gleams in guilloché yellow gold, set with a brilliant diamond. Flip it, and a punchy blue agate face offers a youthful twist on the classic clover silhouette. Its double-beaded contour nods to the Alhambra’s enduring design DNA, while the reversible concept adds versatility without sacrificing elegance.
It’s a clever piece, but also one that makes a quiet statement—luxury that doesn’t shout but shines when you take a second look.
The Watch That Doubles as Jewellery
Then there’s the Sweet Alhambra watch—small in size, but rich in detail. The dial subtly follows the four-leaf clover shape, rendered in guilloché gold and rimmed with delicate beading. The craftsmanship is intense: fifteen steps from start to finish, including the careful selection and matching of blue agate stones, precise gem-setting, and the assembling of the movement and casing.
Worn on its own or stacked with bracelets, the watch feels less like a timepiece and more like a hidden gem—both literally and figuratively. Its shimmer and bright blue accents make it equally suited for a weekday office outfit or a weekend dress.
Blue Is More Than a Colour—It’s a Mood
By combining the cool tones of blue agate with their iconic guilloché gold, Van Cleef & Arpels has created pieces that feel joyful, optimistic, and a touch playful—without straying from their core of refined elegance. It's the kind of blue that doesn’t signal melancholy, but rather, hope and renewal.
So whether you're dressing for a ceremony, a coffee run, or anything in between, these additions to the Alhambra collection offer a subtle dose of luck—and a lot of style.
