Van Cleef & Arpels Silver Obsidian Holiday Pendant – Everything You Need To Know

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Ever since the Japan-exclusive release in 2005, the Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant has become a highly anticipated piece. Sought after by fans and collectors alike, the limited edition jewelry features the brand’s iconic clover motif. What makes the Van Cleef Holiday necklace special is the use of different stones each year. Save for a few exceptions in 2005 and 2016, with onyxes used both times. But that’s for another story.

Image courtesy of @diamondsindubai

So, what does the famous French luxe company have in store for 2023? Loyal customers are introduced to the beautiful VCA Silver Obsidian Holiday Pendant. The stone offers an understated allure that instantly adds OOMPH to your OOTDs. If you’re eyeing this Van Cleef & Arpels necklace, here’s everything you need to know before you make a purchase.

What is an Obsidian?

First things first, what exactly is an obsidian? An obsidian is a type of stone that occurs naturally when extruded glass from lava cools. Thanks to science, however, obsidian can now be manmade in laboratories. This makes the stone more accessible to jewelers and consumers. Amazing, right?

Obsidians are typically black, brown, or silvery gray iridescent, as with the Van Cleef holiday pendant. But did you know that the striking stone wasn’t initially intended as a fashion accessory?

Historically, the beautiful obsidian was often chiseled to form arrowheads, shields, and scrying mirrors. Why this rock specifically? It’s because Mayans and Aztecs believed the volcanic stone wielded protection against negative energy. It, therefore, made complete sense for early people to eventually include its safeguarding elements in jewelry. Good thing they did. Otherwise, you’d have to be lugging around heavy tools or weapons instead of a delicate necklace.

That said, let’s get down to business and discuss what to expect with the Alhambra Silver Obsidian.

Breaking Down the VCA Silver Obsidian Pendant

Like VCA holiday pendants before it, the obsidian clover charm is set in rose gold, and in its center is an eye-catching diamond. At a quick glance, the 2023 bling bears a striking resemblance to the 2014 Mother of Pearl release. But a closer inspection tells a different story. The Obsidian Vintage Alhambra features a slightly darker stone that contrasts nicely with the pinkish sheen of 18K hardware, lending edgy elegance to an otherwise dainty piece.

Is the vintage Alhambra single pendant, not your style? If so, you’re in luck because the jewelry house also released the stone in a 20-motif necklace and a 5-motif bracelet.

Compared to other Vintage Alhambra pieces, the obsidian ranks 5.5 (out of 10) on the Mohs hardness scale. Essentially, this means the stone is prone to scratches, chipping, and breaking.  Due to its somewhat fragile nature, there are two essential care tips for the Obsidian Van Cleef & Arpels holiday pendant. They are as follows:

• Tip #1: Avoid stacking or layering it with other jewelry.
• Tip #2: Refrain from submerging it in water. Doing so can change the structure of the stone and diminish its luster.

Of course, even with utmost care, accidents can occur. In the event that you find your pendant damaged, you can always head to your nearest VCA boutique for repairs. The service being afforded to Van Cleef holiday pendant 2023 owners is available depending on the extent of the damage. Furthermore, repairs cost a minimum of EUR 320, with the rate increasing based on the issue (diamond or gold backing damaged or lost).

Before you get put off from acquiring this gorgeous piece, it’s important to remember that all jewelry pieces should be handled with care. This one just happens to require a little more TLC than others.

Ready to Make the Purchase?

If you’re looking to snag the Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant, unfortunately, it’s not as easy as walking into a shop. You can only acquire the special edition obsidian bling through an “honorary system.”

Just like the Hermès Birkin, sales associates must nominate clients. The list of candidates is then reviewed by corporate. Those who make the cut can expect to splash out at least 3,650 USD (without tax). Since holiday editions are limited in number, your best chance at buying one is through reputable resellers. If you choose to go this route, you’re likely going to pay more than the retail price.

Van Cleef Releases to Look Out for

Image courtesy of @diamondsindubai

But if you’ve already scored a Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Pendant and you’re looking to add something else to your collection, there are a few more pieces out now.

Other than the Obsidian, the classic design comes in a second stone, the Pietersite. This radiant midnight blue rock contains swirls of deep dark blue and black set in classy white gold hardware. The stone boasts a ranking of 6.5 to 7.0 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it relatively sturdier than the obsidian. Although the VCA Alhambra Pietersite is a bit more durable, you must still employ the following care practices:

• Tip #1: Avoid exposure to soaps, perfumes, cleaning chemicals, or makeup.
• Tip #2: Refrain from exposing the stone to too much moisture for extended periods.

Aside from the new stone releases, some fan faves are also making a comeback this year. First, on the list is the stunning Turquoise Alhambra, featuring two new style versions. Available in a 5-motif bracelet and 20-motif necklace, the collection showcases pave diamonds and yellow gold hardware.

Next up is the understated Rock Crystal, this time in a long necklace design. Of the re-release stones, Rock Crystal carries a higher hardness rating at 7.0 Mohs. Meanwhile, the Turquoise stone follows closely with a 5.0 to 6.0 range.

There’s definitely no shortage of fashionable luxe jewelry you can snag from this high end French brand. If there’s anything from the latest selection that has tickled your fancy, don’t walk. Run to your nearest Van Cleef & Arpels store, PRONTO! Otherwise, you could miss out on this year’s must-haves!

Check current prices for Van Cleef & Arpels Silver Obsidian Holiday Pendant here or see my all-time favorite VCA Holiday Pendant here.