The Alhambra Van Cleef and Arpels Collection comes in a lot of different types of gemstones and variations. The most popular is the mother of pearl collection in yellow gold. I would suggest starting with that. It will be the antiques of tomorrow and will always be desirable and in fashion. I think the bracelets get the most attention, and you as the wearer can enjoy seeing it as much as others, so I would start with the bracelet. It is so versatile that it is neutral, and you can really wear it with anything. Also, the old rules of not mixing different shades of gold are out the window! Mix and match and be creative and have fun with it.
The second piece I would suggest is earrings. I am not matchy, matchy, but if you are, by all means, get the matching mother of pearl earrings. But I would suggest the Lapis Lazuli Alahambra Van Cleef & Arpels Earrings. The shade of blue is so Royal and beautiful. It can be worn as an everyday staple as well, even with blue jeans and a bathing suit.
Third I would get the pendant. It is more for the enjoyment of others because you will see it only in the mirror. It should be given as a gift by someone who loves you as a pendant is so close to your heart. I would suggest to get it the same gemstone as the bracelet if you went with a different gemstone for the earrings. Last of all, if you can swing, I would get instead of the pendant, the long strand of Alhambra. The thirty-inch one. You can wear it doubled up or long. It really can be worn every day. It is a perfect fit for special occasions or to formal events as well.
I once saw a lady come out of a limousine in San Francisco, and she had on an all diamond Alhambra bracelet, with mother of pearl large earrings, and doubled up the mother of pearl necklace and a long evening gown. She must have been going to the opera. It simply took my breath away, and I will never forget it.
Most importantly, you have to wear your pieces. Don't save them for a special occasion, make every day special, and wear them and enjoy them, make them part of your every day lives.
All The Best, William David