Photo credit: www.businessinsider.com
A luxury jewelry expert has identified several key indicators that can help consumers distinguish real Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry from imitations. Authentic pieces are crafted with exceptional skill and attention to detail, something that counterfeiters frequently overlook. Below are some critical aspects to consider when evaluating the authenticity of a Van Cleef & Arpels item.
This article is based on insights from Ng Yong Shen, vice president of Re-Loved Luxury, a luxury secondhand retailer based in Dubai. The content has been edited for clarity and length.
Ng Yong Shen began his journey in luxury authentication during the pandemic, initially hired as a purchaser for a secondhand luxury goods company. His role allowed him to examine a large variety of items, including bags, watches, and jewelry, honing his skills in spotting counterfeits.
After gaining experience as an authenticator for Carousell Group and serving as a commercial manager for Luxehouze, a platform specializing in pre-owned luxury goods, Ng has spent four years in the luxury authentication sector. His typical day involves sourcing secondhand items online or from vintage shops, verifying pieces for corporate clients, and managing business growth at Re-Loved Luxury. He also curates vintage luxury items for his personal collection.
One of the most frequent questions Ng receives relates to identifying fake Van Cleef & Arpels pieces. While he can often detect counterfeits at a glance, he offers four specific characteristics for consumers to inspect.
1. Shape of the Clover Prongs
The first aspect to examine is the shape of the prongs forming the iconic clover pattern. Genuine pieces feature prongs that are rounded and distinct, unlike fakes, which typically exhibit a more elongated or teardrop form. Authentic Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry has more evenly proportioned prongs, contributing to its recognizable silhouette.
2. The Spheres Surrounding the Center Stone
Next, take note of the small spheres encircling the central stone. In counterfeit versions, these spheres often lack uniformity in size. Real Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry showcases exquisite craftsmanship, with spheres that are finely crafted and visually appealing. On fakes, the spheres can appear disproportionate, either too large or too small, indicating a lapse in quality.
3. Hallmark on the Jump Ring
Another critical identification point lies in the clasp and jump ring. When examining the jump ring closely, look for a small dent on its surface. Authentic pieces will have an imprint—typically an eagle’s head hallmark—signifying its 18-karat gold composition. This hallmark is often overlooked by counterfeiters.
4. Neatness of the Side Profile
Finally, scrutinize the side profile of the jewelry. Genuine pieces will have a neat, well-defined edge, while counterfeit items often display a less polished, messier appearance. Additionally, the thickness of the center stone can serve as a telling feature; authentic pieces usually have a sturdier, more substantial look compared to the thin and flimsy characteristics of fakes.
By paying attention to these details, consumers can better protect themselves against counterfeit jewelry and ensure they are purchasing legitimate Van Cleef & Arpels items.
Source
www.businessinsider.com