I have to share my experience as a warning to everyone who decides to bid on the brand name jewelry items like Van Cleef & Arpels. I had won a beautiful VCA Alhambra turquoise set, however when I received it, turned out it was missing one of the Maker's Marks that are present on most authentic items. When I questioned Christies' London Director of Jewelry Department, Mr. Keith Penton, about it, he reassured me in writing that he guarantees the items are authentic. However, when I subsequently brought the items to VCA flagship store in NYC, I was told by customer service that the serial numbers don't match and authenticity cannot be verified. When I informed Mr. Penton about he stated that he has a connection at VCA NY and will try to verify through them. Subsequently it turned out that the connection did not exist and I was told by VCA customer service that authentication will cost $1800. Mr. Penton informed me that I would have to bear upfront cost and will be reimbursed if the item turns out to be unauthentic, which i believe from my previous experience with mismatched numbers, it will. So for now I have a most likely fake item, pending official conformation of course, and I am out of $1800 which may be returned later, but there was no apology, no offer of restitution for my time, etc. I WOULD NEVER RECOMMEND CHRISTIES' LONDON TO ANYONE and in fact urge anyone who considers dealing with them, to reconsider. THEY ARE INCOMPETENT AT BEST and you will be stuck dealing with consequences of their lies. read more