Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Pendant Onyx

This Alhambra pendant sets a single Onyx motif in yellow gold on a fine chain, the more graphic counterpart to the mother of pearl version and one of the most commonly requested single-stone Alhambra pieces Clutch sources. The black stone against gold reads more defined and higher contrast than the pearlescent options, sitting well on its own or as a base layer under a longer necklace in a lighter stone.

Van Cleef & Arpels has kept the pendant format consistent since introducing the Alhambra line in 1968: one motif, the house's signature gold bead border, on a chain designed to sit at the base of the neck. Onyx has remained part of the core stone offering for most of that history, which generally makes it easier to source in consistent, even colour than some of the harder-to-match natural stones in the range.

Clients frequently choose the onyx pendant specifically to wear against a plain neckline without competing with other jewellery, since the single black motif reads as a clear, contained shape rather than a busier arrangement of stones. Because onyx has remained in the house's regular production for most of the collection's history, sourcing a well-finished single motif tends to be quicker than tracking down rarer stones in the range.

Clutch sources this pendant new and pre-owned, and documents gold weight, stone finish and chain condition on the specific piece before confirming a sale. Every item goes through Legit Grails, an independent authentication service, ahead of purchase, not graded by Clutch itself, with original certification carried through where available. Enquire to check current stock and pricing.