Victorian Natural Pearl and Old Cut Diamond Cluster Ring 18k Yellow Gold
Located in London, GB
Antique Victorian to Art Deco Pearl and Diamond Ring in 18ct Yellow Gold A stunning antique ring dating from the Victorian to Art Deco period (circa 1870–1920), featuring a beautif...
Diamond, Natural Pearl, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1970's Red Garnet Cluster Ring 18k Yellow Gold
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Vibrant 1970's garnet cluster dome ring set in rich 18k yellow gold. Beautiful ring with a great look on the hand.
Garnet, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Emerald and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Colour: G-H, Clarity: VS-SI Tested As: 18ct Gold Box: The Vintage Jeweller Ring Box Comments: This emerald possesses a slight chip.
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
An 18th Century Gold and Silver Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Amsterdam, NL
A gold cluster ring set with old cut diamonds (app. 1.10 ct total) set in silver in foiled closed back cut-down collet settings, the reverse beautifully rayed, and with 'c' curls con...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Silver
Art Deco Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a wonderfully crafted diamond cluster ring dating back to the Art Deco period. A single round faceted old European cut diamond sits at the centre of the face. An open pl...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Victorian Emerald and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Colour: K-L, Clarity: VS Tested As: 18ct Gold & Silver Box: The Vintage Jeweller Ring Box
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
7.4 Carat Semi-Oval Blue Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Ring in 18k White Gold
Located in London, England
The centrepiece of this elegant ring is a stunning Semi-Oval Blue Sapphire weighing approximately 7.40 Carats. This jewel speaks for itself with its rich, royal hues, and is set in a...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
“Antique 18k Yellow Gold Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Ring, 1920s”
Located in Cairo, EG
Antique 18k yellow gold french ring with natural navy blue sapphire colour estimate weight of 1.20 carars flnaked with 4 old mine cut diamonds with estimate weight of 2 carats H colo...
Vintage 6ct Natural Emerald & Diamond Cluster Ring, 18KT Gold
Located in Braintree, GB
A striking vintage emerald and diamond cluster ring crafted in 18KT yellow gold, dating to approximately the 1970s. The ring is centred with a large pear-shaped natural emerald weigh...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold
French 2.01 Carat Ruby 1.35 Carat Diamond 18k Rose Gold Cluster Ring Circa 1915
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This 18k gold ruby and diamond cluster ring is a timeless gift.
Diamond, Ruby, Rose Gold
Vintage Peridot, Diamond and Gold Cluster Ring, Circa 1990
Located in London, GB
A vintage peridot and diamond cluster ring, with a long, oval, faceted mixed-cut peridot, with an estimated weight of 15.00 carats, in a double four claw setting, surrounded by a clu...
Diamond, Peridot, 18k Gold
Ruby and Diamond Cluster Eternity Band
By MOV Diamond Jewelry
Located in Fatih, 34
This ring would be the perfect way to commemorate a special occasion or simply to add elegance to your everyday look. The diamonds represent eternity and devotion, making it a meanin...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold
Single Cut Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
This is a classic round cluster ring set with a halo of single cut round diamonds arranged around the focal, larger single cut diamond. Each stone here is claw set in platinum to emp...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Vintage Transitional Cut Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
This is a stunning 18ct yellow gold diamond cluster ring. The design features a captivating arrangement of round faceted transitional cut diamonds, each stone exuding a brilliant whi...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1940s 1.87 Carat Diamond and White Gold Cluster Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This stunning, fine and impressive vintage diamond ring has been crafted in 18k white gold with a platinum setting.
Diamond, Platinum, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 1980s Ruby and Diamond Yellow Gold Cluster Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A fine and impressive vintage French 0.60 carat natural ruby and 0.62 carat diamond, 18 karat yellow gold cocktail ring; part of our vintage jewelry and estate jewelry collections. ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 18ct Gold, Edwardian Pearl & Diamond Daisy Cluster Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Daisy Cluster Ring 18ct Gold Stamped Circa 1910 Step back in time with this exquisite 18ct yellow gold Edwardian daisy ring, a stunning example of craftsmanship from a byg...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold
Contemporary 0.80ct Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
This wonderful ring features a collection of four sparkling round brilliant diamonds. Totalling 0.80 carat, the diamonds each match in quality at G in colour and VS in clarity. Each ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
$1,884Sale Price|20% Off
1.06 Carat Deep Red Ruby And Diamond Oval Cut 18k Yellow Gold Halo Cluster Ring
By Gems and Jewels UK
Located in Birmingham, GB
Fine Deep Red Ruby And Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Halo Cluster Ring. 1.06ct deep red oval cut natural ruby set in a finely made 18k yellow gold halo ring.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold Three Row Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Material: 18K yellow gold Diamond: 44 round brilliant cut = 0.94cttw Color: I / J /K Clarity: SI2-I1 Size: 8 Weight: 7.30 grams
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cultured Pearl and 0.60 Carat Diamond, 18k Yellow Gold Cluster Ring Circa 1935
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning, fine and impressive antique three stone cultured pearl and 0.60 carat diamond, 18 karat yellow gold cluster ring; part of our diverse antique pearl jewelry collections.
Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Yellow Gold
Textured Square Diamond 14K (or 18k upon request) Yellow Gold Cluster Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Textured Square Diamond 14K Yellow Gold Cluster Ring radiates elegance and simplicity, crafted from 14K yellow gold and adorned with natural diamonds totaling 0.1 ct.
14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Diamond Cluster 14 Carat White Gold Disc Dress Ring
Located in London, GB
This gorgeous cocktail ring features a round brilliant cut diamond rub-over set in the centre, beautifully surrounded by three rows of smaller round brilliant cut diamonds, together ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Art Deco 18ct Gold & Platinum, Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, England
This is a lovely example of a deco diamond cluster that was made circa 1930s. It is of intermediate size, so is both impressive but not overtly large. The centre diamond is 0.20 cara...
18k Gold, Platinum
Diamond Cluster Ring Set with 0.40ct In 18ct White Gold
Located in London, GB
A beautifully crafted diamond cluster ring, set in 18ct white gold, featuring 0.40ct of natural diamonds arranged in a cluster setting. Total Diamond Weight: 0.40ct Diamond Colour:...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$2,235Sale Price|20% Off
Contemporary Sapphire Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in MADRID, ES
Classic elegance meets modern craftsmanship in this beautifully balanced rosette-style ring from the contemporary period. Made of 18k yellow gold, the ring centers on a vibrant 2.36 ...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Vintage 1960’s, 18ct Gold Zircon & Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Vintage Blue Zircon & Diamond Ring 18ct Gold Stamped Makers Mark JLD Circa 1960s This stunning vintage cluster ring from the 1960s features a beautiful zircon centre and a fabul...
Diamond, Zircon, Gold, 18k Gold
4.42 Carat Emerald White Diamond Yellow Gold Cluster Ring
By Shimon's Creations
Located in New York, NY
3 Emerald Gemstones: 3.58 Carats 30 White Round Diamonds: 0.84 Carats Metal: 18K Yellow Gold, 7.00 Grams
White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Boucheron 0.89 Carat Burma Ruby Diamond Cluster Gold Ring
By Boucheron
Located in New Orleans, LA
The crimson gem is joined by a cluster of white diamonds totaling approximately 3.00 carats and set in 18K yellow gold.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 18KT White Gold Colombian Emerald & Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Braintree, GB
A vintage 18KT white gold Colombian emerald and diamond cluster ring from the 1970s, featuring a vivid natural emerald framed by a striking multi-cut diamond surround. This handcraft...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Antique 1930s Pearl and Diamond Yellow Gold Cluster Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This stunning, fine and impressive antique pearl and diamond cluster ring has been crafted in 18k yellow gold with an 18k white gold setting.
Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Diamond Cluster Ring Set with 1.0ct In 18ct Yellow Gold
Located in London, GB
A beautifully crafted diamond cluster ring, set in 18ct yellow gold, featuring 1.0ct of natural diamonds arranged in a cluster setting. Total Diamond Weight: 1.0ct Diamond Colour: ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Edwardian 0.52 Carat Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a charming cluster ring dating back to the Edwardian period. This antique piece showcases a radiant cluster of round faceted old mine cut diamonds; all of which have bee...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Diamonds & 18K Rose Gold Glimmer Ring
By Pradera Irama
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
Diamonds & 18K Rose Gold Glimmer Ring MATERIALS ◘ Ring Weight: 6,32 grams ◘ 19 Diamonds total 1,41 ct. Diamond quality GVVS The diamonds are set with a modern technology. They ar...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
18 Carat White Gold Trilogy Diamond Cluster Engagement Ring
By Tobi Gem Setting
Located in London, GB
This gorgeous ring showcases three circular diamond clusters. Each cluster is designed with a princess cut diamond in the center, framed by four marquise cut diamonds totalling to an...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
18kt yellow Gold Cluster Ring with 1.85 Cts Emerald & Diamonds
Located in Aventura, FL
This beautiful cluster ring is crafted in 18k yellow gold and showcases a vivid emerald-cut natural emerald 1.85 ctw at the center, surrounded by a sparkling halo of natural round di...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
0.25 Carat Diamond Daisy Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Condition: Used (Excellent) Weight: 3.4 grams Size: K 1/2 (51) Total Diamond Carat Weight: 0.49ct Central Diamond: 0.25 Carats, Colour: F, Clarity: VS2 Shoulder Diamonds: 0.24 carats...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique 19th Century 18K Gold Old Mine Cut Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in New Orleans, LA
A grand Victorian diamond cluster ring containing approximately 5.80 carats total weight old mine cut diamonds set in 18K gold.
Antique Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Denver, CO
A natural red ruby weighing approximately 1.50 carats centers this antique cluster ring, encircled by ten Old European-cut diamonds, K color and SI clarity.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18ct Yellow Gold and Platinum Diamond Daisy Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Art Deco Diamond Cluster Ring This stunning Art Deco-inspired ring is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. A brilliant-cut center diamond, surrounded by a halo of sparkling diamonds, tak...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Vintage 0.45ct Diamond Cluster Ring, c.1950s
Located in London, GB
Gemstone: Diamond Stone Shape: Transitional Cut Carat Weight: 0.45 Colour: F Clarity: VS Metal: 18ct Yellow Gold, Platinum Age: 1950s Size: K
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Vintage 18KT White Gold Diamond Cluster Ring 7 carats total
Located in Braintree, GB
A vintage cluster ring crafted in 18KT white gold, set with a substantial arrangement of round-cut diamonds forming an elongated, tiered cluster. The design is composed around a larg...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$12,360Sale Price|25% Off
Alexander Beverly Hills 2.58ct Yellow Diamond Cluster Ring 18k Two Tone
By Alexander Beverly Hills
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
Stunning 3 yellow diamonds bezel set ring with two rows of round diamonds and millgrain, EGL certified. By Alexander Beverly Hills. 2.58 carats total diamond weight. Center heart sh...
Diamond, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yell...
Vintage 18ct Gold Stamped, 1960s Zircon & Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Zircon & Diamond Ring 18ct Gold Circa 1960s This stunning vintage cluster ring from the 1960s features a beautiful zircon centre and a fabulous halo of natural diamonds. ...
Diamond, Zircon, Gold, 18k Gold
Old Cut Diamond Marquise 18 Carat Gold Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
This gorgeous marquise shaped ring features a cluster of 15 Victorian old cut diamonds weighing a total approximate weight of 1.50ct, all pave set in 18 carat white gold. The beautif...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Edwardian Opal and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a delightful opal and diamond cluster ring dating back to the Edwardian period. This antique piece focally plays host an impressive 2.00 carat white opal possessing a so...
Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Estate Diamond and Sapphire Cluster Ring
Located in Denver, CO
This sparkling cluster ring features an emerald-cut diamond center stone, GH color and VS clarity, surrounded by a halo of calibrated blue sapphires.
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Blue Sapphire and Light Brown Diamond Victorian Cluster Ring in 18k/925 Gold
Located in New York, NY
Introducing our captivating Victorian Cluster Ring, a true masterpiece that combines the deep allure of blue sapphires and the unique charm of light brown diamonds.
Brown Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
Antique Sapphire And Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in New York, NY
Antique Sapphire And Diamond Cluster Ring A ring featuring a center round cut sapphire surrounded by antique cut diamonds. Sapphire Weight: approximately .17 carats Diamond Weigh...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Art Deco Ruby and Diamond 18 Carat Gold Cluster Ring
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
This ruby cluster ring holds a central ruby measuring 75pts. The ruby held in this ring is a deep pink colour and the sparkle of the diamonds compliment the stone beautifully. The di...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Early 20th Century Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a delightful cluster ring showcasing a dazzling array of diamonds. At the heart of this piece lies a collection of round faceted old European-cut diamonds with their whi...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Diamond Cluster Ring 18ct Yellow Gold Floral Halo Twist Design
Located in London, GB
Beautiful diamond cluster ring crafted in solid 18ct yellow gold, featuring a classic floral halo design.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$632Sale Price|20% Off
18kt Gold Flower Single Cluster Natural Diamonds Engagement Ring
Located in Antwerpen, BE
Minimalist simple cluster set diamond white ring perfect for everyday wear or a gifting item! Metal: 18kt White Gold Gemstone: Natural Diamonds Shape: Round Brilliant Total Carat ...
Diamond, Gold, 10k Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$472Sale Price|20% Off
18kt Gold Flower Single Cluster Natural Diamonds Engagement Ring
Located in Antwerpen, BE
Minimalist simple cluster set diamond white ring perfect for everyday wear or a gifting item! Metal: 18kt White Gold Gemstone: Natural Diamonds Shape: Round Brilliant Total Carat ...
Diamond, Gold, 10k Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamonds South Australian Pearl Cluster 18 kt Gold Ring
Located in Napoli, Campania
Cluster ring in 18k white gold mounted with one south sea pearl in the center and diamonds around.
Diamond, South Sea Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
Certified 1.21 Carat Oval Ruby & Diamond Cluster Ring in 18K Gold
Located in Pasadena, CA
Centering an oval shaped natural ruby weighing approximately 1.21 carats, this ring features tapered baguette and round natural diamonds set in an 18K yellow gold mounting. The ring ...
Vintage 18ct Gold 1970’s Amethyst & Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Vintage Amethyst Ring 18ct Gold Tested Hallmarked London 1971 Makers Mark J & P Fabulous sized, vintage cluster ring. Set with an oval, faceted amethyst & a halo of beautiful, n...
Amethyst, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
18k White Gold German Chrysoprase & Diamond Ring
Located in Lexington, KY
This stunning chrysoprase and diamond ring was made in the 1950s in 18K white gold.
Chrysophrase, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamond Cluster Ring Set In 18ct Yellow & White Gold, 0.85ct
Located in London, GB
This stunning ring features a cluster of brilliant-cut diamonds set in 18ct yellow & white gold. The design highlights the brilliance of the diamonds. A timeless piece, perfect f...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$528Sale Price / item|20% Off
Minimalist Multi Color Gemstone Cluster Ring in 18k Solid Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Minimal Emerald Sapphire Cluster Ring in 18K Gold featuring natural gemstones of of 0.08 carats and diamonds of 0.09 carats.
Diamond, Emerald, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Gold is the feel-good metal, the serotonin of jewelry. Wear vintage and antique gold necklaces, watches, gold bracelets or gold rings and you feel happy, you feel dressed, you feel, well, yourself.
Gold, especially yellow gold, with its rich patina and ancient pedigree going back thousands of years, is the steady standby, the well-mannered metal of choice. Any discussion of this lustrous metal comes down to a basic truth: Gold is elementary, my dear. Gold jewelry that couples the mystique of the metal with superb design and craftsmanship achieves the status of an enduring classic. Many luxury houses have given us some of our most treasured and lasting examples of gold jewelry over the years.
Since its founding, in 1837, Tiffany & Co. has built its reputation on its company jewelry as well as its coterie of boutique designers, which has included Jean Schlumberger, Donald Claflin, Angela Cummings and Elsa Peretti. There are numerous gold Tiffany classics worth citing. Some are accented with gemstones, but all stand out for their design and the workmanship displayed.
For the woman who prefers a minimalist look, the Tiffany & Co. twist bangle (thin, slightly ovoid) is stylishly simple. For Cummings devotees, signature pieces feature hard stone inlay, such as her pairs of gold ear clips inlaid with black jade (a play on the classic Chanel black and tan), or bangles whose design recalls ocean waves, with undulating lines of lapis lazuli and mother-of-pearl. And just about any design by the great Jean Schlumberger is by definition a classic.
Even had he eschewed stones and diamonds, Southern-born David Webb would be hailed for the vast arsenal of heavy gold jewelry he designed. Gold, usually hammered or textured in some manner, defines great David Webb jewelry. The self-taught jeweler made very au courant pieces while drawing inspiration from ancient and out-of-the-way sources — East meets West in the commanding gold necklaces made by Webb in the early 1970s. The same could be said for his endlessly varied gold cuffs.
In Europe, many houses have given us gold jewelry that sets the highest standard for excellence, pieces that were highly sought after when they were made and continue to be so.
Numerous designs from Cartier are homages to gold. There are the classic Trinity rings, necklaces and bracelets — trifectas of yellow, white and rose gold. As a testament to the power of love, consider the endurance of the Cartier Love bracelet.
Aldo Cipullo, Cartier’s top in-house designer from the late 1960s into the early ’70s, made history in 1969 with the Love bracelet. Cipullo frequently said that the Love bracelet was born of a sleepless night contemplating a love affair gone wrong and his realization that “the only remnants he possessed of the romance were memories.” He distilled the urge to keep a loved one close into a slim 18-karat gold bangle.
BVLGARI and its coin jewelry, gemme nummarie, hit the jackpot when the line launched in the 1960s. The line has been perennially popular. BVLGARI coin jewelry features ancient Greek and Roman coins embedded in striking gold mounts, usually hung on thick link necklaces of varying lengths. In the 1970s, BVLGARI introduced the Tubogas line, most often made in yellow gold. The Tubogas watches are classics, and then there is the Serpenti, the house's outstanding snake-themed watches and bracelets.
A collection called Monete that incorporated the gold coins is one of several iconic BVLGARI lines that debuted in the 1970s and ’80s, catering to a new generation of empowered women. Just as designers like Halston and Yves Saint Laurent were popularizing fuss-free ready-to-wear fashion for women on the go, BVLGARI offered jewels to be lived in.
Since Van Cleef & Arpels opened its Place Vendôme doors in 1906, collection after collection of jewelry classics have enchanted the public. As predominantly expressed in a honeycomb of gold, there is the Ludo watch and accessories, circa the 1920s, and the golden Zip necklace, 1951, whose ingenious transformation of the traditional zipper was originally proposed by the Duchess of Windsor. Van Cleef's Alhambra, with its Moroccan motif, was introduced in 1968 and from the start its popularity pivoted on royalty and celebrity status. It remains one of VCA’s most popular and collected styles.
Mention must be made of Buccellati, whose name is synonymous with gold so finely spun that it suggests tapestry. The house’s many gold bracelets, typically embellished with a few or many diamonds, signified taste and distinction and are always in favor on the secondary market. Other important mid-20th-century houses known for their gold-themed jewelry include Hermès and Ilias Lalaounis.
Find a stunning collection of vintage and antique gold jewelry on 1stDibs.
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.
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Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.