$4,596Sale Price|20% Off
1 Carat Emerald Diamond Scalloped Halo Cocktail Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite cocktail ring features a stunning oval-cut natural emerald, weighing approximately 1 carat, set as the radiant focal point.
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, White Gold
$39,600Sale Price|20% Off
1 Carat Fancy Yellow Diamond Three-Stone Oval Diamond Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite three-stone ring showcases a stunning centerpiece featuring an oval brilliant-cut fancy yellow diamond of approximately 1 carat, radiating warmth and brilliance.
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$38,160Sale Price|20% Off
3 Carat Paraiba Tourmaline and 1 Carat Diamond Cocktail Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
The central gem is elegantly framed by a halo and band encrusted with approximately 1 carat of sparkling, high-quality white diamonds.
Diamond, Tourmaline, Paraiba, 14k Gold, White Gold
$11,176Sale Price|20% Off
1 Carat Diamond Sapphire Geometric Hexagon Cocktail Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
This sophisticated cocktail ring showcases a stunning approximately 1-carat round brilliant-cut diamond as its focal point, artfully framed within a striking, geometric hexagon-shape...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
1 Carat Old European Cut Diamond Engagement Ring. Diamond Accent Ring Platinum
Located in New York, NY
"Other Details: Primary Stone: Natural Diamond Center Diamond Weight: 1.00 Carats Center Diamond Cut: Old European Cut Secondary Stones: Diamonds Additional Diamond Weight: Approxi...
Diamond, Platinum
$30,720Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 1 Carat Diamond Piaget Limelight Engagement Ring
By Piaget
Located in Chicago, IL
The center stone is perfectly complemented by fourteen round side diamonds, totaling approximately 0.28 carats, which enhance the ring’s overall sparkle.
Diamond, Platinum
18K White Gold Color Enhanced Diamond Ring, 5.9gr
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
18K White Gold Color Enhanced Diamond Ring, 5.9gr Ladies diamond engagement ring in 18k white gold setting.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA 1 Carat Diamond Ring. Cushion Diamond Sapphire Platinum Engagement Ring IVS1
Located in New York, NY
Primary Stone: Diamond Primary Stone Weight: Approx 1.00 Carats Primary Stone Cut: Cushion Cut Primary Stone Color: I Color Primary Stone Clarity: VS1 Secondary Stones: Sapphire Se...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, Platinum
1 Carat Pink Sapphire Diamond Halo Ring
By Zenith Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
This exquisite pink sapphire and diamond halo ring showcases a natural pink sapphire weighing over 1 carat, prized for its vibrant hue and elegant oval silhouette.
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
$9,472Sale Price|20% Off
1 Carat Diamond Ruby Art Deco Style Cocktail Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite Art Deco style engagement ring features a stunning 1 carat round brilliant cut diamond at its center, certified by EGL-USA for its quality and brilliance.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
1 Carat Diamond Ring. GIA Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring Platinum G VS2
Located in New York, NY
Primary Stone: Diamond Primary Stone Weight: 1 Carat Primary Stone Cut: Emerald Cut Primary Stone Color: G Color Primary Stone Clarity: VS2 Certification: GIA Certified Secondary St...
Diamond, Platinum
$11,200Sale Price|20% Off
EGL USA Certified 1 Carat Round Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite solitaire engagement ring showcases a stunning natural round brilliant-cut diamond, weighing approximately 1 carats, expertly set in a classic and timeless platinum mo...
Diamond, Platinum
$17,600Sale Price|20% Off
Tiffany & Co. 1 Carat Round Brilliant Diamond Novo Engagement Ring
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite Tiffany & Co. Novo engagement ring features a stunning round brilliant-cut diamond as its centerpiece. Renowned for its sophisticated design and superior craftsman...
Diamond, White Diamond
$2,896Sale Price|20% Off
1 Carat Morganite Diamond Halo East-West Cocktail Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
The overall diamond weight is approximately 0.37 carats, featuring stones with excellent G-H color and VS2-SI2 clarity.
Morganite
GIA Certified 1 Carat Princess Cut Diamond Sapphire Platinum Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
This stunning GIA certified engagement ring showcases a brilliant 1 carat princess cut diamond as its sophisticated focal point.
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
$19,024Sale Price|20% Off
EGL Certified 1 Carat Round Brilliant Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
By Supreme
Located in Chicago, IL
This magnificent engagement ring features a stunning, EGL USA certified round brilliant-cut center diamond weighing approximately 1 carat.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
1 Carat Cushion Cut Sapphire Ring. Round Diamond Halo Engagement Ring Platinum
Located in New York, NY
Other Details: Primary Stone: Sapphire Sapphire Weight: Approx 1.00 Carats Sapphire Cut: Cushion Cut Sapphire Type: Natural Secondary Stones: Diamonds Total Diamond Weight: Approx ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
1 Carat Old European Cut Diamond Cluster Engagement Ring in Platinum
Located in Chicago, IL
This magnificent 1 Carat Old European Cut Diamond cluster engagement ring is a breathtaking example of timeless elegance.
Diamond, Platinum
1 Carat Emerald Ring. Emerald Cut and Round Diamond Engagement Ring Platinum
Located in New York, NY
Primary Stone: Emerald Primary Stone Weight: 1.00 Carats Primary Stone Cut: Emerald Cut Secondary Stones: Diamond Secondary Stone Weight: Approx. 0.08 Carats Total Secondary Stone C...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
Art Deco Platinum and 1 Carat Diamond Ring. Old European Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in New York, NY
Age: Antique Era: Art Deco Era, Circa 1925 Primary Stone: Diamond Primary Stone Weight: Approx. 1.00-Carats Primary Stone Cut: Old European Cut Primary Stone Color: I Color Primary ...
Diamond, Platinum
Yellow Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Marquise .19ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 1/4 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $50 or Down 2 sizes for $40 Metal Content: 14k Yellow Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .10ctw Cut: Marquise Color: H - I Cl...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$8,568Sale Price|20% Off
1 Carat Cushion Cut Diamond Double Halo Vintage Style Engagement Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite vintage-inspired engagement ring showcases a stunning 1 carat cushion cut diamond at its heart, radiating brilliance and timeless sophistication.
Diamond, White Gold
1 carat Emerald Engagement Ring. Diamond Square Halo Ring Platinum 18k Gold
Located in New York, NY
Primary Stone: Emerald Primary Stone Weight: Approx 1-Carats Primary Stone Cut: Emerald Cut Secondary Stone: Diamonds Secondary Stone Weight: Approx 0.70-Carats Secondary Stone Cut...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum, 18k Gold
Natural Diamond Curve Band Ring Enhancer in 14k Gold
Located in Chicago, IL
Light weight can be worn everyday Additional information: Condition: New with tags: A brand-new, unused, and unworn item (including handmade items) in the original packaging (such a...
Diamond, Rose Gold, 14k Gold
1 Carat Ruby Engagement Ring. Oval Cut Ruby Diamond Cluster Ring Platinum
Located in New York, NY
Encircling the center ruby is a dazzling halo of old European-cut diamonds, collectively weighing approximately 1-carat.
Ruby, Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum, Yellow Gold, Gold
1 Carat Old European Engagement Ring. Diamond and Sapphire Halo Platinum Ring
Located in New York, NY
Primary Stone: Diamond Primary Stone Weight: Approx. 1.00-Carats Primary Stone Cut: Old European Cut Primary Stone Color: L Color Primary Stone Clarity: VS1 Clarity Secondary Stone:...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Tiffany 1 Carat Engagement Ring. GIA Round Brilliant Diamond Ring Platinum G VS2
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in New York, NY
Manufacturer: Tiffany & Co Certification: GIA Certificate Primary Stone: Diamond Primary Stone Carat: Approx. 1-Carats Primary Stone Cut: Round Brilliant Cut Primary Stone Color: G C...
Diamond, Platinum
$6,456Sale Price|20% Off
1 Carat Cushion Cut Diamond East West Solitaire Gold Engagement Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
The center stone, weighing approximately 1 carat, is expertly held within a minimalist 14k yellow gold setting that highlights the warm, subtle tones of the diamond, which carries an...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round Brilliant .17ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 4 1/2 Sizing Fee: Up 2 sizes for $60 or Down 1 size for $40 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .17ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: G -...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
18K White Gold Statement Ring With 1 Carat Fancy Coloured Diamond
Located in Ramat Gan, IL
Natural diamond (earth-mined), certified by GIA/IGI – color permanently enhanced by the HPHT process; not a laboratory-grown diamond. The diamond in this jewelry piece is a natural ...
Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Vintage 1 Carat Engagement Ring. GIA Old European Cut Diamond Ring Platinum JSI1
Located in New York, NY
Ring Size: 9.25 US, Resizable Certification: GIA Color: K Color Clarity: SI1 Overall Metal: Platinum Stone: Diamond Center Stone Weight: 1.10ct Stone Cut: Old European Cut Style: Ar...
Diamond, Platinum
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round Brilliant .28ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 3/4 Note: Please contact us for a resizing quote Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .28ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: G Clarity: ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round .36ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 1/2 Sizing Fee: Up 1 1/2 sizes for $50 or Down 1 size for $40 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .36ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color:...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Yellow Gold Sapphire Diamond Enhancer Ring - 14k Marq .24ctw Wedding Band Guard
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 1/4 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $50 or Down 2 sizes for $40 Metal Content: 14k Yellow Gold Stone Information Natural Sapphires Carat(s): .16ctw Cut: Marquise Color: Dark Bl...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round .24ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 3/4 Sizing Fee: Up 2 sizes for $80 or Down 1 size for $60 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .24ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: H -...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round Brilliant .25ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 4 3/4 Sizing Fee: Up 2 sizes for $50 or Down 1 size for $40 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .25ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: G -...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round 1.00ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 1/4 Sizing Fee: Up 1 size for $100 or Down 1 size for $80 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): 1.00ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: H ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Yellow Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round 1.00ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 5 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $100 or Down 1 size for $60 Metal Content: 14k Yellow Gold & 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): 1.00ctw Cut: Round ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round Brilliant .50ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 7 Sizing Fee: Up 2 sizes for $40 or Down 1/2 a size for $40 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .50ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: H -...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round .33ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 7 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $80 or Down 2 sizes for $60 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .33ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: H - I ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round .30ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 1/2 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $80 or Down 2 sizes for $60 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .30ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: H ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Yellow Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band 14k Round Brilliant .30ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $50 or Down 2 sizes for $40 Metal Content: 14k Yellow Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .30ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: I - J...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round .32ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 8 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $80 or Down 2 sizes for $60 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .32ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: I - J ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round Brilliant .20ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 4 1/4 Sizing Fee: Up 1 size for $35 or Down 1/2 a size for $35 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .20ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Rose Gold Diamond Contoured Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round .15ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 5 1/2 Sizing Fee: Up 1 size for $50 or Down 1/2 a size for $40 Metal Content: 14k Rose Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .15ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: G...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
GIA 1 Carat Asscher Cut Diamond Ring. Carre Emerald Halo Platinum Ring H VS2
Located in New York, NY
"Other Details: Primary Stone: Diamond Center Diamond Weight: Approx 1.00 Carats Certification: GIA Certified Center Diamond Color: H Center Diamond Clarity: VS2 Center Diamond Cut:...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
Yellow Gold Sapphire Diamond Enhancer Band - 14k Round .88ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 1/2 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $120 or Down 2 sizes for $80 Metal Content: 14k Yellow Gold Stone Information Natural Sapphires Treatment: Heating Carat(s): .64ctw Cut: Rou...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1/2 Carat Diamond Gent’s Ring in 14k Gold
Located in Tustin, CA
This bold and luxurious gent’s ring features an impressive total diamond weight of 5.4 carats, making it a true statement piece for any occasion. Expertly crafted in 14K white gold, ...
Diamond, 14k Gold
$10,500Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 1 Carat Oval Blue Sapphire Baguette Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Weighing approximately 1 carat, this center stone is elegantly framed by a halo of 18 baguette-cut diamonds, which provide a sophisticated contrast and exceptional brilliance.
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$7,044Sale Price|20% Off
GIA 1ct Cushion Three-Stone with Diamond Shank 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** Handcrafted in New York, a stunning diamond ring that exemplifies timeless beauty and sophistication, featuring a captivating cushion c...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round .50ctw Wrap Jacket Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 9 Sizing Fee: Up or down 1 size for $80 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .50ctw Cut: Round Brilliant; Single Color: G - H Clarity:...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
GIA 1ct Oval Halo Openwork Basket Cathedral Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** Handcrafted in New York, this striking diamond ring features a captivating oval 1 center stone, expertly crafted to highlight its unpar...
Diamond, Platinum
1 Carat Genuine Emerald and .50 Carat Diamond Halo Engagement Ring, Yellow Gold
By Five Star Jewelry
Located in Austin, TX
.97 carat emerald cut, genuine emerald gemstone (almost 1 carat) .52 carat total diamond weight (28 round brilliant diamonds and a little over .50 carats t.w.) 14 karat yellow gold r...
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$6,302Sale Price|20% Off
GIA 1ct Cushion Solitaire Twisted Square Band Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
At its heart lies a mesmerizing cushion I VS1 1 diamond, securely held in place with a classic prong setting that enhances its brilliance.
Diamond, Platinum
$6,681Sale Price|20% Off
GIA 1ct Oval Solitaire with Half Eternity Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** This sophisticated diamond ring features a striking centerpiece of a oval diamond, weighing 1 and boasting a rich I and SI1.
Diamond, Platinum
GIA 1 Carat Oval Rose Cut Ring. Diamond Accent Solitaire Ring Platinum G VS2
Located in New York, NY
Ring Size: 6.75 US, Resizable Certification: GIA Certificate Color: G Color Clarity: VS2 Metal: Platinum Stone: Diamond Center Stone Weight: Approx 1ct Stone Cut: Rose Cut Style: Ar...
Diamond, Platinum
1 Carat Diamond and Sapphire Halo Ring. Old Euro K VS1 Platinum Engagement Ring
Located in New York, NY
Other Details: Primary Stone: Natural Diamond Center Diamond Weight: 1.00 Carats Center Diamond Cut: Old European Cut Center Diamond Color: K Color Center Diamond Clarity: VS1 Seco...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
1 Carat Old European Cut Ring. Diamond Halo Engagement Platinum Ring H Color SI
Located in New York, NY
Primary Stone: Diamond Primary Stone Weight: Approx. 1.00-Carat Primary Stone Cut: Old European Cut Primary Stone Color: H Color Primary Stone Clarity: SI1 Clarity Jewelry Type: Eng...
Diamond, Platinum
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round Brilliant .23ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 5 1/2 Sizing Fee: Up 2 sizes for $35 or Down 1 size for $35 Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .23ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: I -...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
White Gold Diamond Enhancer Wedding Band - 14k Round Brilliant .56ctw Guard Ring
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 1/2 Note: Please contact us for a resizing quote. Metal Content: 14k White Gold Stone Information Natural Diamonds Carat(s): .56ctw Cut: Round Brilliant Color: F-G Clarit...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Antique diamond rings, diamond tiaras and dazzling vintage diamond earrings are on the wish lists of every lover of fine jewelry. And diamonds and diamond jewelry are primarily associated with storybook engagements and red-carpet grand entrances — indeed, this ultra-cherished gemstone has a dramatic history on its hands.
From “A Diamond Is Forever” to “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” pop culture has ingrained in our minds that diamonds are the most desired, the most lasting and the most valuable gemstone. But what makes the diamond so special? Each stone — whether it’s rubies, sapphires or another stone — is unique and important in its own right. April babies might claim diamonds for themselves, but just about everyone wants this kind of sparkle in their lives!
There are several factors that set diamonds apart from other stones, and these points are important to our gem education.
Diamonds are minerals. They are made up of almost entirely of carbon (carbon comprises 99.95 percent; the remainder consists of various trace elements). Diamonds are the hardest gemstones, ranking number 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Even its name, diamond, is rooted in the Greek adamas, or unconquerable. The only object that can scratch a diamond is another diamond. Diamonds are formed deep within the earth at very high temperatures (1,652–2,372 degrees Fahrenheit at depths between 90 and 120 miles beneath the earth’s surface) and are carried up by volcanic activity. Diamonds are quite rare, according to the Gemological Institute of America, and only 30 percent of all the diamonds mined in the world are gem quality.
In the 1950s, the Gemological Institute of America developed the 4Cs grading system to classify diamonds: clarity, color, cut and carat weight. Not all diamonds are created equal (there are diamonds, and then there are diamonds). The value of the diamond depends on the clarity (flawless diamonds are very rare but a diamond's value decreases if there are many blemishes or inclusions), color (the less color the higher the grade), cut (how the diamond’s facets catch the light, certain cuts of diamonds show off the stone better than others) and carat weight (the bigger, the better).
When you start shopping for a diamond engagement ring, always prioritize the cut, which plays the largest role in the diamond's beauty (taking the time to clean your diamond ring at least every six months or so plays a role in maintaining said beauty). And on 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
Shop antique and vintage diamond rings, diamond necklaces and other extraordinary diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
Antique and vintage rings have long held a special place in the hearts of fine jewelry lovers all over the world.
No matter their origin or specific characteristics, rings are timeless, versatile accessories. They’ve carried deep meaning since at least the Middle Ages, when diamond rings symbolized strength and other kinds of rings were worn to signify romantic feelings or to denote an affiliation with a religious order. Rings have also forever been emblematic of eternity.
Over time, rings have frequently taken the form of serpents, which have long been associated with eternal life, health and renewal. Italian luxury jewelry house Bulgari has become famous for its widely loved Serpenti motif, for example, and its Serpenti ring, like the other accessories in the collection, began as an homage to jewelry of the Roman and Hellenistic eras. The serpent is now a popular motif in fine jewelry. Jewelry devotees have long pined for rings adorned with reptiles, thanks to antique Victorian rings — well, specifically, Queen Victoria’s illustrious engagement ring, which took the form of a gold snake set with rubies, diamonds and an emerald (her birthstone). Designs for Victorian-era engagement rings often featured repoussé work and chasing, in which patterns are hammered into the metal.
Engagement rings, which are reliably intimidating to shop for, are still widely recognized as symbols of love and commitment. On 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
The most collectible antique engagement rings and vintage engagement rings are those from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. Named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who in succession ruled England starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign), antique Georgian rings, be they engagement rings or otherwise, are also coveted by collectors. Pearls, along with colored gemstones like garnets, rubies and sapphires, were widely used in Georgian jewelry. The late-1700s paste jewelry was a predecessor to what we now call fashion or costume jewelry.
The Art Nouveau movement (1880–1910) brought with it rings inspired by the natural world. Antique Art Nouveau rings might feature depictions of winged insects and fauna as well as women, who were simultaneously eroticized and romanticized, frequently with long flowing hair. Art Deco jewelry, on the other hand, which originated during the 1920s and ’30s, is by and large “white jewelry.” White metals, primarily platinum, were favored over yellow gold in the design of antique Art Deco rings and other accessories as well as geometric motifs, with women drawn to the era’s dazzling cocktail rings in particular.
Whether you’re hunting down a chunky classic for a Prohibition-themed cocktail party or seeking a clean contemporary design to complement your casual ensemble, find an exquisite collection of antique, new and vintage rings on 1stDibs.
Ancient Egyptians referred to the vibrant stone as the “gem of the sun.”
There are many ways to showcase a diamond, from traditional prongs to a smooth, streamlined bezel. Here’s everything you need to consider.
The vintage bombé ring is bursting with color and timeless style.
Zircon is a magnificent and underrated natural gemstone that has been worn and adored for centuries.
Givers of fine gems enjoy surprise more than receivers, and women more than men. Find out what else our survey of 3,000 Americans revealed.
If diamonds don’t seem right, what about a magnificent sapphire, ruby or emerald?
Accounting for just 1 percent of all diamonds, these marvels of nature are exceedingly rare and gorgeously complex.
Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.