$4,400Sale Price|20% Off
Torres 18k Yellow Gold Pavé Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
This sophisticated cocktail ring by Torres is crafted from luxurious 18k yellow gold and features a stunning pavé-set diamond design.
Diamond, Yellow Gold
Vintage 18K Yellow Gold 0.47ct Pavé Diamond Band Ring
Located in Morris Plains, NJ
A sculptural and expressive vintage diamond band ring crafted in rich 18K yellow gold, featuring natural round diamonds totaling approximately 0.47 carats in a shimmering pavé settin...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,244Sale Price|20% Off
18K Gold 1.20ct Pave Emerald & 0.12ct Pave Diamond Fancy Cluster Band Ring
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
We ship from Thailand- International buyers are responsible for any applicable import duties, taxes, or customs fees levied by their destination country. These charges are not inclu...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Gucci 18k White Gold Diamond Pave Chiodo Nail Ring
By Gucci
Located in New York, NY
This luxurious Gucci ring reimagines the industrial elegance of a nail in fine jewelry form, crafted from solid 18k white gold and encrusted with brilliant pavé-set diamonds.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamond Platinum & 18K Gold Two Tone Pave Band Ring
Located in Miami, FL
Two-tone band ring in platinum 900 and 18K yellow gold featuring pave-set round brilliant diamonds totaling 0.73 carats (E-F/VS) covering domed center section.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
$5,704Sale Price|20% Off
18K White Gold Domed Diamond Pave Ring – 3.19 Carats
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Dramatic and dazzling, this 18K white gold dome ring is masterfully pavé-set with 3.19 carats of round brilliant white diamonds.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18K Yellow Gold Hexagon Pavé Diamond Wide Band Ring
Located in Miami, FL
A bold expression of modern elegance, this 18K yellow gold wide band ring showcases a striking hexagonal lattice design, pavé-set with approximately 1.5 carats of brilliant-cut diamo...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold Pavé Diamond Dome Ring, 1.50 Carats
Located in Miami, FL
Sleek and contemporary dome ring crafted in solid 18K white gold, designed with a wide pavé-set diamond surface that offers exceptional brilliance and presence on the hand.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage pearl diamond 18k white gold pave cocktail ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This vintage pearl and diamond pavé cocktail ring is a striking statement of elegance and craftsmanship.
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$831Sale Price / item|20% Off
18k Gold Micro Pave Stacking Ring Thin Dainty Diamond Ring
By Oshi Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
Beautiful, high-quality diamond wedding bands are set in 18K pure gold. This eternity ring is ideal as an engagement or wedding band and looks excellent either alone or stacked with ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold Pave Paved Diamond Odelia Designer Dome Ring
By Odelia
Located in Hallandale Beach, FL
Estate 18K White Gold Odelia Diamond Ring featuring brilliant round pavé-set diamonds with exceptional sparkle.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier 2.28 Carat Diamond Pavé 18K White Gold Band Ring
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
A refined and substantial pavé diamond band by Cartier, crafted in solid 18K white gold.
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamond Pavé Motif 18K White Gold Ring Wide Band
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This exquisite 18K white gold ring is a true masterpiece of modern jewelry design.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$2,500 / item
0.70 Carat Pave Diamond Wrap Ring 18K White Gold
Located in New York, NY
Elevate your style with our 0.70 Carat Pave Diamond Wrap Ring in 18K White Gold. This exquisite piece exudes timeless sophistication, featuring a brilliant 0.70-carat diamond meticul...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$795Sale Price / item|20% Off
18k Gold Pave Diamond Two Bar Ring Parallel Bar Ring Diamond Bar Ring
By Oshi Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
Diamond Bar Ring is made of 18k solid gold available in three colors of gold, White Gold / Rose Gold / Yellow Gold. Brilliant Diamond Ring in 18k gold featured with natural white sp...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, White Gold, Rose Gold, 18k Gold
1.39 Carat Ruby Diamond Pave 18K Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A striking ring featuring a vivid red oval ruby weighing 1.39 carats, set prominently at the center. Surrounding the ruby are approximately 2.00 carats of round white diamonds, creat...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Stunning 1.78ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
Adorn yourself with our sophisticated 18K White Gold ring, featuring a dazzling 1.5ct cushion-cut natural diamond, graded I in color and VS1 in clarity. This exquisite centerpiece is...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$2,500 / item
0.70 Carat Pave Diamond Wrap Ring 18K Yellow Gold
Located in New York, NY
Adorn yourself with sophistication and radiance through our 0.70 Carat Pave Diamond Wrap Ring in 18K Yellow Gold. This captivating piece features a dazzling 0.70-carat diamond expert...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Diamond Pave Salamander 18K White Gold Ring, circa 1970s
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This daring 1970s salamander ring in 18K white gold is an eccentric and powerful statement piece, featuring an intricate pave design encrusted with 2.82 carats of round brilliant cut...
Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Exquisite 0.30ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
This captivating 18K white gold ring features a stunning design, perfect for adding a touch of brilliance to any outfit. The G color grade signifies near-colorless diamonds, while th...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
1.26 Carats IGI Certified 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Pave Ring
Located in רמת גן, IL
1.26 Carats IGI Certified 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Pave Ring Indulge in the captivating warmth and exceptional radiance of this magnificent 1.26-carat diamond ring, masterfully sculp...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Wide Pavé Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Crossover band Ring
Located in Monte Carlo, MC
This wide pavé diamond band ring is crafted in 18k yellow gold and designed with a polished crossover motif that recalls the shape of a stylized leaf.
White Diamond, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Stylish 0.51ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
Captivate hearts with this exquisite 18K white gold cocktail ring featuring a stunning 0.30ct round brilliant diamond as its centerpiece, accented by a halo of 10 dazzling round bril...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$4,464Sale Price|20% Off
Diamond Pave Four-Row Band Ring in 18k White Gold
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
The smooth, tapering band ensures a comfortable fit for everyday wear, while the generous application of diamonds ensures an unmistakable sparkle. Whether worn alone as a statement p...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Stunning 0.11ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18K Rose Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
This exquisite piece features a sparkling cluster of 12 round brilliant diamonds, boasting a total carat weight of 0.11 carats. The G color grade signifies near-colorless diamonds, w...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
18K Pave Diamond Pearl Cocktail Ring 6cttw Sz 5.25
Located in Winter Springs, FL
A vintage ring done in 18K yellow gold and set with a approximately 6cttw in F-G color Vs1-2 clarity diamonds and topped with a 13.2mm cream colored South Sea pearl. Dimensions/Weig...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold
Criss Cross Diamond Pave Ring in 18k White Gold
Located in Honolulu, HI
Item Specifications: Metal: 18k White Gold Diamond Count: 75 round brilliant diamonds Diamond Carat Weight: 0.40 Diamond Color: G-H Diamond Clarity: SI2-I1 Ring Width: 9 mm Ri...
Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
18K White Gold Pavé Diamond Heart Shaped Cocktail Ring
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
A refined 18K white gold pavé diamond heart shape ring, stamped 750 and weighing 10.6 grams.
Diamond, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Gold Pavé Diamond Bombé Crossover Ring
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This Van Cleef & Arpels ring is set in 18k yellow gold and features a crossover design where two pavé-set diamond bands intersect at the center.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
$3,040Sale Price|20% Off
Pavé Diamond Flower Blossom Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By GEM PLAZA
Located in Jaipur, Rajasthan
Inspired by wild flora dancing in the spring breeze, this exquisite flower statement ring is sculpted in luminous 18K gold. Every heart-shaped petal is meticulous packed with shimmer...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mauboussin Paris 18k Gold Pavé Diamond Ring, Size 5.25-5.5
By Mauboussin
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A Mauboussin Paris cocktail ring, crafted in 18k gold and set with pavé diamonds.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Pave Sapphire & Pave Diamonds Antique Looking Long Ring in 18k Gold & Silver
By Artisan NYC
Located in New York, NY
18kt:3.49gms, Diamond:1.19ct, Silver:5.41gms, Sapphire:1.37ct Size: 22X17X67MM"
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Silver
GCI Certified 1.21ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18k Yellow Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
GCI Certified 1.21ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18k Yellow Gold An exquisite expression of brilliance and refinement, this 18K yellow gold pavé ring features a captivating 1.01ct cushion...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Yellow Gold 1.25ct Diamond Pave Dome Ring MF20-031726
By LB Exclusive
Located in Southampton, PA
The breaks give the surface definition as light shifts between diamond and polished gold.Offered in estate condition, this 18K Yellow Gold 1.25 ct Diamond Pave Dome Ring comes with a...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold and Pave Diamond Starburst Ring
By David Yurman
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Designer: David Yurman Material: 18K Yellow Gold Diamonds: 7 round cut= 0.02cttw Color: H Clarity: SI1 Dimensions: the ring measures 7.25mm wide at the top Size: 4.75 Weight: 2.41 gr...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Contemporary 18K White Gold Diamond Pavé Dome Ring, 2.25 Carats
Located in Monte Carlo, MC
Claris-A offers this diamond pavé dome ring in 18k white gold, designed with a bold, rounded silhouette and a fully pavé-set diamond surface that creates continuous brilliance across...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
1.68 Carat Tsavorite Pave Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A striking 1.68 carat tsavorite is the centerpiece of this contemporary ring. The tsavorite, in an elegant oval cut, showcases a vivid green hue. Surrounding the tsavorite are 1.18 c...
Diamond, Tsavorite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
IGI Certified 1.41ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18k White Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
IGI Certified 1.41ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18k White Gold A sophisticated statement of brilliance, this exquisite ring is crafted in 18K white gold and showcases a stunning 1.01ct ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18K Yellow Gold Pavé Diamond Band Ring, 0.46 Carat Total Diamond Weight
Located in Covington, LA
Details Sixty-two round brilliant natural diamonds totaling approximately 0.46 carat Crafted in 18K yellow gold Multi-row pavé diamond design Slim stacking band profile Ring size: 6....
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
$5,265Sale Price|20% Off
18K White Gold Ring with Diamond Star Centerpiece and Pave Diamonds
Located in Bergamo, BG
. -------------------- A stunning 18K white gold ring featuring a star-shaped centerpiece adorned with brilliant diamonds totaling 0.90 carats.
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Pave Diamond 4.3cts 18k White Gold Eternity Band Ring
Located in New York City, NY
Fine diamond and 18k white gold band. Features approx. 4.30 carats of round brilliant cut diamonds of approx. G-H color and VS approx. clarity. Size 6.25 and approx. 9 mm wide. Hal...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 3.00ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18k Rose Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
IGI Certified 3.00ct Diamonds Pave Ring in 18k Rose Gold Command attention with this stunning 18K rose gold ring, starring a dazzling 2.01ct round diamond at its center.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Estate Pavé Diamond Cluster Ring, 18k Yellow Gold 1.03ctw, Hideko
Located in Orlando, FL
This 18k yellow gold ring is built around two domed pavé diamond clusters, set top and bottom and joined at the center by a wrapped gold band that crosses over itself like a loose kn...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
3.72 Carat Blue Sapphire & Diamond Pave 18K Crossover Band Ring
Located in Miami, FL
Blue sapphire and diamond crossover band ring in 18K white gold featuring micro-pavé set blue sapphires and white diamonds in crisscross bypass design.
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
White Diamond Fancy Color Diamond Pave 18K Rose & White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Dimensions: 1.50x2.30x2.20cm Color: 18K Rose Gold Materials: "20 White Diamonds 0.25 CT 73 Fancy Diamonds 2.11 CT 18KR 8.23 GM (WBTT)" 18K Gold & Precious Diamond & Gemstone Jewelry...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Globe Pave Fancy Diamond & White Diamond 18K Rose Gold Ball Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Color: 18K Rose Gold Materials: "46 White Diamonds 0.50 CT 286 Fancy Diamonds 8.06 CT 18KR 9.32 GM (WNTT)" 18K Gold & Precious Diamond & Gemstone Jewelry Our Jewelry Collections cel...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Vintage emerald ruby sapphire diamond 18k yellow gold pave ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This beautiful vintage pavé ring is a vibrant 1990’s design, featuring 12 cabochon cut emeralds, rubies, and sapphires weighing approximately 0.60 carat in total.
Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18k Yellow Gold 1.90ct Natural Round Diamonds Wide Pave Ring
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This exquisite 18k yellow gold wide pavé ring exudes brilliance and sophistication, designed as a true statement of luxury.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
French vintage 1.20 carat diamond 18k white gold pave ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This elegant French vintage pavé ring showcases a seamless surface of shimmering round brilliant diamonds, creating a continuous field of radiant sparkle.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Custom Diamond Pavé Monogram “N” Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By Hand Made
Located in New York, NY
Custom Made Ring Material: 18K Yellow Gold Condition: Mint Diamond: 3.75ctw Clarity: VS1 Color: F Ring Dimension: Size: 8.75 Width: 20mm x 23.4mm Thickness: 1.6mm Weight: 16.0gr C...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
BVLGARI Bvlgari Pave Diamond Circle Signature Ring in 18k Yellow Gold
By Bulgari
Located in San Diego, CA
BVLGARI Bvlgari Diamond Pave Circle Ring Metal: 18k Yellow Gold - 11.1 grams RING SIZE: 6.25 Size / Measurements: The curved dome measures 20 x 20 mm Pave with diamonds TCW: ~ 0.9...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Italian 18K Gold Pavé Diamond Dome Ring 1.75 Carat
Located in Miami, FL
A strong example of Italian goldwork from this period—elegant, deliberate, and quietly luxurious. Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Hallmark: 750, Italian Diamonds: Approx. 1.75 carats total we...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,122Sale Price / item|20% Off
18k Gold Diamond Heart Ring Pave Heart Ring Heart Ring Engagement Gift
By Oshi Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
Stunning high quality Art Nouveau Style Ring with Diamonds in 18k solid gold. Available in three colors of gold: White Gold / Rose Gold / Yellow Gold. Lightweight and gorgeous, thes...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Estate Dorado 18K Pave Round Carré Diamond Bow Cocktail Ring
Located in Winter Springs, FL
Details: * Designer: Dorado * Metal: 18K yellow gold * Diamond Weight: 3.33 carats total (stamped) * Diamond Cuts: Round brilliant and Carré cut * Diamond Color: F–G * Diamond...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,398Sale Price / item|38% Off
18K White Gold Diamond Pavé Eternity Band Wedding Ring
Located in Wan Chai District, HK
This stunning 18K White Gold Diamond Pavé Eternity Band Wedding Ring is the ultimate symbol of your eternal love.
Diamond, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Luminous 0.81ct Natural Diamond Pave Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
Get ready to stop traffic with this spicy 18K yellow gold showstopper that serves pure, persuasive elegance. Featuring a creative 0.55ct round brilliant center stone flanked by a shi...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold Diamond Pave Square Ring – 5.55 Carats Total
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Weighing 27 grams, this piece carries a luxurious presence and solid feel on the hand — a perfect fusion of power and sophistication. Details: Metal: 18K White Gold Weight: 27 gra...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Dazzling 1.01ct Natural Diamond 18K White Gold Halo Pave Ring
Located in רמת גן, IL
Imagine a breathtaking display of brilliance, where every angle catches the light in a symphony of sparkle. This new 18K white gold ring features seven magnificent round brilliant di...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Exquisite 0.90ct Natural Diamonds Pave Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
This exceptional pave ring exudes grace and sophistication, crafted from luxurious 18K white gold for a sleek and elegant finish.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Hammerman Brothers 18K Gold Pavé Diamond Bombé Ring, 3.00 Carats
By Hammeran Brothes
Located in Miami, FL
Designer: Hammerman Brothers Origin: United States Period: Circa 1970s Metal: 18 Karat Yellow Gold Diamonds: 35 Round Brilliant-Cut Diamonds Total Diamond Weight: Approximately 3.00 ...
Diamond, 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.
Ancient Egyptians referred to the vibrant stone as the “gem of the sun.”
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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.