WHY I SOLD MY ONYX VAN CLEEF AND ARPELS ALHAMBRA???

[@altacostura3512]

It's a shame that so many youtubers like you feel they need to explain themselves and make disclaimers---you don't. There is no need to explain your choices or your expenses. Viewers have a lot of hurt, resentment and they will take it out on luxury youtube. It always is quite simple: you don't like it? Don't watch it. As for luxury buyers who are offended by youtubers criticizing or selling off pieces they themselves have? C'mon, people, how old are we?? Aren't y'all old enough to understand that everyone likes different things? THANK YOU for your lovely channel.

[@LuxPurselove]

I totally agree with you. Thank you so much!

[@svm4367]

I just wanted to say that I became a subscriber because of the Van Cleef video you mentioned. I was researching them and came across a lot of younger KZbinrs who were highly praising the brand. While their pieces are undeniably beautiful, your review really gave me the full picture. Your honest, down-to-earth, and mature approach, paired with your classy style and extensive experience with luxury jewelry, completely won me over. If I trust anyone on KZbin for luxury reviews, it’s definitely you. Please don’t let the comments get to you or change your way of communicating-you’re doing amazing! Much love! ❤

[@LuxPurselove]

Awe thank you so very much! I really appreciate your kind words. :)

[@jrob123]

I can relate to how you feel when you wear your Mom’s jewelry. I often wear a heart necklace that was my Mom’s and I feel like a part of her is with me when I do

[@LuxPurselove]

I love that. It is nice to feel like our moms are with us a little.

[@BEAGS19774]

Melinda. I'm sorry you got negative comments. You are just a joy to watch. I appreciate and value your opinions. I love jewelry so much. Your collection is stunning. I love your style and personality. Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights with us!❤❤

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you so much! I appreciate that!

[@j.b.7007]

You are an inspiration. I'm just starting my jewelry journey. And I appreciate your brutal honesty.

[@LuxPurselove]

@@j.b.7007 Thank you so much. I’m glad it was helpful.

[@rosieschweebie]

Hello, I've had the opposite experience. I grew up poor,so my mom only had a few Avon pieces. Over the years I had the extreme pleasure of buying my mom jewerly,and when I see her wear them, my heart is so warm and happy inside. I know my love for jewelry comes from my precious 86 year old momma, and it sounds like your precious mom had excellent taste in jewelry just like you do Melinda.💜💗💜 Thank you so much for sharing with us.😊

[@LuxPurselove]

That is so sweet! My mom didn't have a lot of jewelry when I was growing up and when she lent me those love knot earrings it felt so special. I also started buying her jewelry when I was an adult. I love that you do that for your mom and that it gives you such joy! Xoxo

[@chrissyamelia5920]

Hi Melinda, I love your jewellery videos they are so insightful and your collection is beautiful. I also appreciate your honesty with what you love or don’t love about a piece it’s helpful when looking at purchasing a piece. The earrings from your mum are beautiful and special, they will go with everything. I’m thinking of the Cartier trinity ring going to watch your video, have a lovely weekend.

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you so much! The earrings are so pretty, and I love the size. Ooooh I love that ring! It's super comfy. Have a lovey weekend as well!

[@LeahElizabeth]

Fav video to date ❤ thank you for sharing and being so kind!

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you so much!

[@susanm9824]

These are just things. Everyone has the right to not love everything they purchase…. Including YOU!!❤❤❤. You are so kind and respectful, with such a good heart. We appreciate you!! ❤️❤️

[@LuxPurselove]

Awe thank you so very much Susan! Xoxo

[@susanm9824]

@ ❤️

[@LIN-wt8dk]

Your necklace is a dream!! I don’t own any VCA but your necklace is stunning!

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you! I love it!

[@LivingWaterWay]

Your makeup looks really pretty! Happy Thanksgiving !

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you so much!! Happy Thanksgiving to you!

[@silvanasam7151]

Hello! Love your vca jewelry. It’s interesting you and other u tubers say the vca bracelet is hard it put on . I have black onyx vca bracelet for 4 years and i have no issues putting it on/off myself. Sometimes im tempted to upload a video so show lol 😂 i prefer not to shower with it so I remove it daily and put it back on. I actually find the clasp on the sweet necklace is harder . Btw, your eye make up looks very nice !

[@LuxPurselove]

You must have missed me mentioning my friend Kim who is a KZbinr, she can whip that bracelet on and off so fast it is like lightning. We are all just different. Thanks so much!

[@starsnrockets84]

Totally agree with the Alhambra chain. I have the pave and it twists badly. Super annoying considering the high price.

[@LuxPurselove]

It really is!

[@janetzak8592]

Very good review. Nails & hair look gorgeous

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you so much Janet!

[@swellchstyle3331]

So glad you did this video because I was on the fence but now I am not! You have amazing piece😍👌🏾 do you is always my top priority because we are all different‼️ have a fabulous holiday weekend with your family 🙏🏾❤️

[@LuxPurselove]

Glad I could help! Thank you, have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend as well! Xoxo

[@mindbodysoul8214]

Sold and hopeful, these pieces are being loved by someone as I type this. Truly Beautiful pieces. There could be a million or one reason a thing doesn't work, but all that matters is, is it working out for you. I agree that your Mama's earrings look beautiful with your VCA necklace. Have a Wonderful weekend. 🧡🍂

[@LuxPurselove]

I hope they are being worn and enjoyed too. Such beautiful designs. Her earrings are so special. Have a wonderful weekend as well! Xoxo

[@mckenziehart6228]

So true! Variety is the spice of life. We don't all need the exact same VCA pieces

[@LuxPurselove]

We really don't!

[@kristincronauer]

I appreciate the information you provide

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you!

[@dowen6010]

I agree completely….if you have jewelry you should wear it. Enjoy the things that make you happy. If it not bringing you joy, like your black onyx was NOT. Then change it for something that does. Keep up the great work. Hope you have a great Thanksgiving 🦃

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you! Have a happy Thanksgiving as well!

[@margaretbrett4073]

Your lovely mum’s earrings look beautiful on you Melinda. So sorry about the negativity, you have a beautiful jewellery collection and knows what works for you, shouldn’t have to explain especially if it’s annoying to wear or get on, like to put bracelets on quick, some days haven’t the patience 😂Stones are so pretty, but not crazy priced. You and dayle are a joy to watch. Best wishes always 🍀

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you! I don’t think I have the patience either!😂I hope you have a great week!💗

[@KathyRichards-tr9zx]

Melinda I too have a Vintage Alhambra 5 motif bracelet but in carnelian. It is probably one of my least worn pieces of jewelry. I'm not sure what it is but when I catch my reflection in a mirror or see myself in a photo, I just don't like how it looks on me. Still a gorgeous piece and it's gone up in from £3650 when I purchased it in Apr 2022 to £4650 now. £1000 in two and a half years!!!!! I would never pay that sort of money for it now. So I understand your hesitancy in keeping those particular VCA pieces too. (However, just my opinion - keep the Magic Alhambra pendant - it looks stunning on you) ☀

[@LuxPurselove]

The necklace is 100% a keeper, I love it. I will probably let the bracelet go, like you said with your piece I really don't like how it looks on me either.

[@mimilynn5619]

I don’t understand people who leave negative comments. If I don’t like a video I just move on.

[@LuxPurselove]

Me too!

[@kiaramartinez-bentley8265]

I bought my bracelet after your review. You tried to warn me that it was hard to put on but I put your warning to the back of my mind… went to Paris bought the bracelet. Turns out you were 100% right. I still love it but if my husband isn’t home, I can’t wear it.

[@LuxPurselove]

Try the paperclip trick I use. Take a big paperclip and unbend part of it then first put the jump ring in then the hole of the lobster claw. It keeps them from moving so you can clasp it and then slip the paperclip out. Helps a lot!

[@llnut4775]

Hi Melinda! People need to realize that just like anything else fashion is subjective. I never understand why anyone would get so riled up about what you like vs what I like. 🙄 We do not have the same tastes, needs or wants and that’s ok!

[@LuxPurselove]

You're absolutely right! Everyone has different tastes and I appreciate you saying that.

[@kklvoescc]

Thanks for the lovely shoutout once again! And yes you said the name perfectly!!😂😂😂 I had a feeling you would end up letting them go. When it doesn’t work it doesn’t work. 🤷‍♀️ Im surprised to hear about the negative comments!! I thought you were being super truthful and saying out loud what we all kind of already know. I used to say I would NEVER buy luxury branded jewelry because it was a rip off. Then I got Cartier and loved it! Next I said I would NEVER get VCA because the stones they use are cheap (yes I think it too!) and the amount of gold is ridiculous for what you pay. Then I got my first Alhambra piece and I was hooked. Is it worth the money? Absolutely not!! Do I still want more? Yes!! 😂 I love the look and it makes me happy despite the price so it’s worth it to me and that’s all that matters I guess. The guilloche looks lovely on you and I think you should keep it but do whatever you want!! 😂🩶🥰

[@LuxPurselove]

I did it lol! I was really surprised by the negativity too. Thanks so much. You are spot on with luxury branded jewelry but if we love it we do! I think you are getting your money's worth because you wear the pieces all the time. I love how thoughtful you are in what you add to your jewelry collection. I am for sure keeping the necklace, need to think more on the bracelet. Have a great weekend! Xoxo

[@Justme-x4h]

It makes sense to not hold on on pieces that just don’t work for you! I don’t understand why people get upset over it, it changes nothing for them. My Alhambra collection is my absolute favorite and I take absolutely no offense for you to not feel the same way. To me it’s just normal that we not love all the same things.

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you I appreciate that. I have said the same thing it doesn't change anything for someone who loves it. I have plenty of things that work for me but others just don't like and that is fine.

[@Kathryn-i8w]

I love that necklace you are wearing. I do enjoy your videos, you are a humble person which I enjoy. Thicker chains look good, but help necklaces not to twist.

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you so much!

[@MaryLou-jv2zp]

What brand is your watch?

[@HandbagDiva]

Looks like a Rolex

[@LuxPurselove]

It's a Rolex date just.

[@KimberlyFairchild58]

I keep saying this on luxury KZbin channels… I think if you invest your money on any collection, jewelry or bags, etc then you can certainly sell the whole darn collection if you choose and start all over with a whole new collection! We all change our minds and our styles over time. I think it’s more “normal” to want to sell and have fun buying new things! I don’t buy luxury, but I guarantee if I did, at some point I’d sell a bunch of older items to fund the new sparkly things I wanted! The busy bodies need to get a life! Have fun with the lovely things you have and never apologize for moving on when you like! ❤

[@LuxPurselove]

Very true! We don't keep the same sofa, car, etc for our entire adult lives why should anything else be different? Thank you!

[@ravensjewel-3886]

This video validates my decision to buy a dupe before splurging. I don’t want to risk hating it so I’m going with a dupe and decide if I love it or not.

[@LuxPurselove]

I can understand that, there are a lot of dupes out there. Even in real jewelry stores they replicate the designs. I would say the only issue might be the weight of the chain or length of the bracelet or even the lobster claws may be totally different to the real thing. And possibly better who knows?

[@ravensjewel-3886]

@ oh I hadn’t thought of that. I was thinking something that is a definite dupe - not replica - and that would likely be different. I love the design and hate the idea of spending money on it and finding out I hate it.

[@LuxPurselove]

I think it would be different. I tried two pairs of dupe earrings from Etsy (no logo or anything on them) because in general since I have long hair I don't like to pay for luxury ones. They were nothing like the real deal weight wise and closure wise but looked close enough on my ears I knew I didn't one real ones.

[@ravensjewel-3886]

@@LuxPurselove I have a feeling I won’t love it. I have the LV color blossom bracelet and the blossoms constantly flip and turn if it’s not tight enough to prevent movement of the blossoms. Drives me crazy and I think the VCA will be the same or at least similar. Do you think the clasp and chain weight will affect that aspect?

[@LuxPurselove]

The bracelet doesn’t flip or twist it has a thicker chain. I do think the chain and lobster claw could be an issue on the necklace. In the collection video I show the bracelet chain next to the necklace one if that helps to see it visually.

[@AnUrbanGypsy]

Beautiful earrings, Melinda. I love the Alhambra range, would have them in every colour if I could afford but for me they are occasion wear. I only have the M-o-P necklace and would love the bracelet but wrists like an Olympic shot putter 😂. They extended the necklace for me and I’d have to do the same with the bracelet. Love your Dior necklace though, so lovely. Bulgari prices have soared the past couple of years, sadly.

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you, they mean so much to me. I am happy you are enjoying your necklace. Bulgari has really gone up so much it is just crazy! I don't even want the viper bracelet anymore it is such a turn off.

[@pink25poppies1]

The magic guilloche looks absolutely stunning on you! Do you enjoy your guilloche bracelet or not so much? I have a different one of their bracelets and agree it's not easy to put on/off even with a bracelet helper but it is beautiful

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you! That is a wonderful question. Truthfully I would have to say not so much. It doesn't light me up like my tennis bracelet or Lock bracelet. Something to consider for sure!

[@pink25poppies1]

@ I'm sorry to hear that , it's a pity when we are excited about a purchase but then later it ends up falling flat. I appreciate your honesty, not so easy to find these days

[@LuxPurselove]

@@pink25poppies1 Yes it is. I had wanted these forever. Thank you so much!

[@mbelieve9919]

Very informative. Thank you for sharing. This is a random question from watching another video of yours about your tennis bracelet. I am wondering how you are enjoying it and how the 10 carat size worked out. I am trying to to decide on what size to get and have tried some on, but it is hard to envision how they will look for regular wear and pairing with other pieces. You have such a lovely and extensive collection, I would love to hear your insight on it.

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you! I love it. I wasn't at all sure what size to get and it was kind of random luck that was the only one he had that he had made. I wore with with another link type bracelet for the first time the other day and really liked the look.

[@mbelieve9919]

@@LuxPurselove Thank you for taking the time to share. It helps. The size looks stunning on you. I even tried looking through your Instagram to see if I saw any stacks and I have looked at some threads on the PurseBlog. I am likely going to do a 4 or 5 carat size so I can still wear it for work.

[@SundayRose99]

You’re so right when you said style changes as one progresses on through the years. And you’re also right about onyx and mop being cheap stones, because they are. Some kitchen or bathroom countertops are made from onyx. 😅 Some people are just mean & rude when commenting. I believe you made the right choice for yourself and your current style now. My lovely VCA SA won’t let me buy the Alhambra bracelets or rings… she says that I will regret it because she knows my lifestyle. So only Alhambra necklace or earrings for me, for someone else to see when they look at me 😅😅😅 She says that someone like me would enjoy precious gems for bracelets and rings, as I am the one looking at them all the time, and she knows I will appreciate the beauty more… plus, diamonds and many other gems are hardier than what most Alhambras are made of. She’s someone who has saved me lots of $$$$ because she took enough care to ask me questions and got to know my lifestyle first before selling me something. I totally get you. I love your direction too, especially your beautiful tennis bracelet!!! 😍😍😍😍😍

[@LuxPurselove]

So very true and you know what you are talking about with gems! You just hit the nail on the head!!! I love rings and bracelets because I can look at them and these just don't wow me. I am so happy she saved you $$$!! Thanks so much Chris! Xoxo

[@ruthmurphy7627]

Hi. Maybe it’s to do with the pendant weight? Maybe the Alhambra is too light for the chain and twists because of that? ❤

[@LuxPurselove]

Hi, yes I think the weight of one or the other didn't match up and caused the twisting.

[@kaylheecarroll3186]

Interesting perspective ❤😊

[@wendyyan7120]

Omg! I love that bracelet! If you sell it I would die! Love your jewelry and your videos- just ignore the haters. Life is too short to care about negative comments!🤩

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you!

[@lauralangham9657]

Sorry to hear that you got so much hate. I vote that you get the bracelet sized, you are in more danger of damaging it with it being the longer size, in my opinion.

[@LuxPurselove]

Thank you. I either need to sell or get it sized for sure. It is way too big.

[@ofeliaolvera1389]

My chain also turns and gets twisted all the time. Very annoying.!

[@LuxPurselove]

It drove me crazy!

[@ofeliaolvera1389]

@ it’s the style of chain. This type tends to do that. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@LuxPurselove]

@@ofeliaolvera1389 I do think it is the chain for sure.

[@jananderson8149]

Yes, onyx, mother of pearl, tiger’s eye, and amethyst are all inexpensive stones. Can you imagine what the necklace and bracelet would cost if the stones were diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds? And, I totally understand a twisting necklace. That would be unbearable to wear.

[@LuxPurselove]

They do have diamond ones, they are a lot. The twisting was so uncomfortable.

[@KathleenBell-k6z]

Get the larger lobster clasp.. I think you will be sorry if you let it go.

[@LuxPurselove]

The lobster clasp really isn't an issue anymore now that I figured out the paper clip trick. It is more the size that bothers me. I don't have a VCA near me so I will have to wait to get it sized if I decided to keep it.

[@tracinicole713]

I’m a Cartier gal, the vintage Alhambra is so overpriced for 5 grams of gold and a soft semi precious stone for $3k meh no thanks.

[@LuxPurselove]

I totally agree!

[@aliciamullaney6634]

Some good words to use rather then CHEAP......More economical, less expensive. Cheap seems to trigger people.

[@LuxPurselove]

I didn't ask for alternative words to use other than cheap. I'm aware cheap and crap may trigger people as I said but that is how I feel, the stones are cheap and the chain is crap. If me not liking jewelry triggers someone they can grow up.

[@aliciamullaney6634]

@@LuxPurselove Not trying to upset you. I was taught in a sales class to not use Cheap because it has a bad connotation, to use other words that are less triggering. This is your channel, you do whatever you want, but we can all learn from each other in life.

[@LuxPurselove]

You didn't upset me at all. But for real if people are triggered by my choice of words to explain how I feel it isn't my fault. It is just jewelry and a just a thing at the end of the day. Have a great week!

[@bunnybabe42k79]

Lol you aren't wrong about the stones being crap, I think many people arent aware that they are just rocks, you can get them at a local craft store. What you are paying for is the name and the craftsmanship

[@LuxPurselove]

So true! I've seen them sold in big bins for crafting/homemade jewelry.

[@sylly654]

Melinda, how DARE you have a different experience/opinion than someone else?! 😅😂 But seriously, I SO appreciate your honest reviews and insight. More times than I can count I have searched KZbin for an item (luxury handbag, watch, jewelry) for reviews, and sure enough, you have a video on it. So of course I click on and watch, and find great insight of pros and cons. And on this topic specifically, I am finding similar issues. I resisted VCA for a while because the prices just seemed so exorbitant for what you get. And this is coming from a Chanel addict. But I can’t go crazy in every department, lol! But funny enough, it was a Chanel piece that pushed me to purchase my first VCA. I bought an onyx Alhambra pendant because I thought it would look so pretty with my new Chanel black cashmere cardigan. (And it DID!) And then a few weeks later I went in to put my name down for the matching bracelet, and they told me they had the 10 motif in stock. So I bought that instead. I actually love the 10 motif necklace, and would not have purchased the single motif pendant if I had known I would be getting that. And the twisting is irritating for sure. Yet a year later I bought the single motif yellow gold guilloche pendant because it is so darn pretty! But now I am done. There are some very real cons that you discuss, and the prices are insane.

[@LuxPurselove]

Yes it is pretty funny I may not like something someone else does lol. Oh that black Alhambra is perfect with black cashmere and so pretty with a classic flap. It was a beauty for sure! So glad you are loving the 10 motif and. yellow gold too. That is a perfect collection!

[@carrino15]

I really get annoyed when people compare prices to greedy Chanel, Chanel that has priced out their loyal customers and rudiculed them by being so aggressive. Chanel has made a bad precedent to make customers swallow insane price hikes. It makes me nauseous.

[@LuxPurselove]

Why would that annoy you? That's just silly. I will compare whatever price increases I want to. Most brands have gone crazy not just Chanel. Yes they are greedy for sure.

[@margaretbrett4073]

Your lovely mum’s earrings look lovely on you Melinda.So sorry to hear about the negativity, you have a stunning jewellery collection and know what works for you, should not have to explain especially if it’s annoying to wear or put on. Love stones also but not crazy priced, like to put bracelets on quick, just haven’t the patience some days 😂So agree Dayle is lovely also , both your channels are a joy to watch. Best wishes always, Melinda 🍀

[@bebeautiful2951]

Did you ask VCA to extend the chain by any chance? I asked them to do so and that’s when the chain started twisting 😢

[@LuxPurselove]

Yes I had it done when I got it.

[@bebeautiful2951]

@@LuxPurselove Thanks for replying back. My guess is the extension is what makes them twist. They should have a warning.

[@LuxPurselove]

@ They should! But of the stationary ones I showed 3 have extenders and none twist. I am kinda befuddle as to what causes it. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@bebeautiful2951]

@@LuxPurselove As mine is fairly new, I’m planning on asking VCA directly as to the reason why that is the case.

[@jesseeec]

I doubt you buy luxury goods in hopes of selling it off at a huge discount. If it doesn’t work it doesn’t work. It is what it is.

[@LuxPurselove]

Yep very true. I don't think of resale value when I buy anything.

[@Matt-c1b9m]

Sell and get a nice tiffany piece

[@LuxPurselove]

Nothing I want from Tiffany atm.