18K Yellow Gold Baguette and Round Diamond Sugar Loaf Ruby Statement Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
DeKara Designs Collection Metal- 18K Yellow Gold, .750. Stones- 76 Round Diamonds, 30 Baguette Diamonds F-G Color VS1-VS2 Clarity 2.11 Carats, 58 Sugar Loaf Rubies 3.07 Carats. S...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
AGL Certified No Heat Oval Cut Burma Ruby and Round Diamond Ring
Located in Miami, FL
Centering a 5.52 Carat Unheated Burma Ruby (per AGL– American Gem Laboratory), framed by Round-Brilliant Cut Diamonds weighing roughly 3.00 carats, and set in 18k white gold and plat...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Platinum
18K Yellow Gold Ruby and Diamond Wide Band Cluster Ring, 1.88ct, USA
Located in Jupiter, FL
A fine quality ruby and diamond wide band in 18K yellow gold. Twelve, vivid, red rubies highlight the sides of the band and create an eye-catching design. Brilliant round and tapered...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$4,942Sale Price|25% Off
Platinum Engagement Ring with GIA Certified 0.50ct Diamond & Rubies
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This captivating engagement ring is a symphony of luxury and elegance, crafted in the finest platinum for lasting beauty and strength. At its heart lies a resplendent GIA certified d...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Silvorra Lush Pink Ruby and Diamond Cluster Timeless Ring in 925 Sterling Silver
Located in New York, NY
This refined ruby and diamond ring features a vibrant 0.69 carat octagon cut ruby as its centerpiece, showcasing a lush pink tone and measuring 4 × 6 mm. The ruby is elegantly secure...
Diamond, Ruby, Silver, Sterling Silver
Retro French Ruby and Diamond Tie Ring in 18 Karat Yellow Gold, Circa 1950
Located in Vannes, FR
Elegant French retro ring in 18 karat yellow gold, featuring a distinctive tie (cravate) design from the style1940s–1950s. The composition highlights a vertical line of calibrated ru...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
GIA Certified Natural Burmese Ruby Diamond Ring - Vivid Red
Located in London, GB
Gemstone: Natural Burmese Ruby Colour: Vivid Red Weight of Ruby : 0.58 carat Weight of diamonds: 0.48 carats Conflict free diamonds. Metal: Platinum Certificate: Gemological Insti...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Vintage French 2.28 Carat Diamond and Ruby Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring, circa 1940
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
Condition This impressive Art Deco ruby and diamond ring is exceptional quality set with stunning Old European cut diamonds displaying a fine white color, brilliance and presence.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Ruby and Diamond Ring GRS Certified 5.09 Carat Burma No Heat in 18K
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Introducing a brand new ruby and diamond ring by Rewa Jewels. This ring has been inspired by traditional Art Deco themes through it's symmetrical designs and traditional shaped such ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ruby and Diamond Ring GRS Certified 2.51 Carat Burma No Heat in 18K
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Introducing a brand new ruby and diamond ring by Rewa Jewels. This ring has been inspired by traditional Art Deco themes through it's symmetrical designs and traditional shaped such ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA Certified 2.01ct Oval Ruby & 1.53ct Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
An absolute masterpiece of timeless elegance, this breathtaking cocktail ring showcases a magnificent 2.01-carat oval-cut vibrant red ruby, accompanied by a prestigious GIA certifica...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Platinum
$3,700 / item
Ruby Diamond Geometric Halo Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Inspired by Art Deco elegance, this refined Ruby Diamond Ring offers striking collector appeal and the timeless sophistication of a distinguished Ruby Cocktail Ring.
Ruby, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
0.77 Round Cut Ruby and Diamond Platinum Cluster Band Ring
Located in Miami, FL
Details: Item Type: Women's Band Ring Metal: Platinum 900 Size: 7 (adjsutable) Weight: 7.40 Grams Width: 5.2 mm Center Gemstone Details: Type: Ruby Carat: 0.77 Color: Red Cut: Rou...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Art Deco Inspired Platinum Diamond GIA 2.10 Ct No Heat Oval Ruby Cocktail Ring
By DeKaraDesign
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A spectacular platinum ruby and diamond cocktail ring featuring a richly saturated 2.10 carat no heat oval ruby at the center, surrounded by an elaborate architectural arrangement of...
Dainty Ruby Baguette and Diamond Ring Studded in 14k Solid White Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Dainty Ruby Baguette and Diamond Ring in 14K Gold featuring natural ruby of 0.34 carats and diamonds of 0.12 carats. The gorgeous handcrafted ring goes with every style. Ruby improve...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Ruby Diamond Octagonal Cocktail Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Crafted in 18K White Gold, this Ruby Art Deco Ring captures timeless sophistication with the brilliance of a Diamond Halo Ring, making it an elegant choice for collectors or meaningf...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$14,400Sale Price|20% Off
Old Cut 1.02 Carat Diamond Engagement Ring Ruby Platinum
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
This stunning ring with an iconic Art Deco design is studded with high quality diamonds and is punctuated by a rich single red ruby which has been custom cut, the platinum bezel ha...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Ruby with Diamond Ring set in 18K Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ruby 2.03 carats with Diamond 0.78 carat Ring set in 18K Gold Settings Width: 2.1 cm Length: 2.2 cm Ring Size: 56 Total Weight: 12.05 grams "We first opened doors in 1980 when it...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
$1,120Sale Price|20% Off
Green Quartz Art Deco Style Oval Cab 14k Solid Gold Diamonds Black Enamel Ring
By Tutti Frutti Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
29 Carat Green Quartz oval cab ( 18mm. x 15 mm.) ,12 round full cut diamonds of 0,05 ct. each,for total diamonds weight of 0,6 carat.4.7 grams of 14 kt. white gold,black enamel Ring ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, Enamel
Vivid Oval Cut Ruby and Diamond Cocktail Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Ruby diamond bold cocktail band ring in 18K gold which perfectly goes with your personality and also helps you to improve your energy and sensuality. This gorgeous ring is a perfect ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
White Gold Diamond Band Ring with Ruby Accents
Located in San Francisco, CA
Whether worn as part of a stack or solo, this unique diamond band ring is destined to become a favorite. Featuring 5 incredibly white natural diamonds weighing .60 carats total weigh...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Ruby with Diamond Ring Set in 18 Karat Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ruby 5.49 carats with Diamond 0.42 carat Ring set in 18 Karat Gold Settings Width: 1.1 cm Length: 1.1 cm Ring Size: 53 Total Weight: 6.86 grams "We first opened doors in 1980 whe...
Diamond, Ruby
Gin & Grace 14K Yellow Gold Mozambique Ruby and Pink Opal Ring with Diamond
Located in New York, NY
Decorate yourself in elegance with this Ring is crafted from 14-karat Yellow Gold by Gin & Grace. This Ring is made up of 5*7 oval-cut Ruby (1 pcs) 1 carat Ruby, pink opal free m...
Diamond, Opal, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Round Brown Diamond 11ct with halo White Rosecut Diamonds Art Deco Cocktail Ring
By HYT
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Introducing a masterful blend of warmth and light. This exquisite cocktail ring centers a magnificent, beautifully saturated round brown diamond. To maximize its fire, our designers ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Brown Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Real Ruby and Diamond Engagement Band Ring in 14k Solid Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Real Ruby and Diamond Engagement Band Ring in 14K Gold symbolizes the everlasting love between a couple. It shows the infinite love you have for your partner. The round shape represe...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 2.03ct Vivid Red Pigeon Blood Burma Heated Ruby and Diamond Ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This natural pigeon blood ruby ring is set with sparkling round brilliant diamonds in solid gold, creating a timeless design that feels both elegant and refined. Pigeon blood ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA 18K 2.57 Ct Kashmir Unheated Purple Red Ruby Art Deco Design Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA 18K 2.57 Ct Kashmir Unheated Purple Red Ruby Art Deco Design Engagement Ring* GIA-certified Kashmir unheated Purple Red Ruby weighing 2.57 ct set on the 18K white gold band wit...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Genuine Ruby and Diamond Accent Women Ring in 14k Solid White Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Genuine Ruby and Diamond Accent Women Ring in 14K Gold featuring natural ruby of 0.88 carats and diamonds of 0.1 carats. The gorgeous handcrafted ring goes with every style. Ruby imp...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$9,600Sale Price|20% Off
1.16 Carat Diamond Ruby Vintage Style Engagement Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Gorgeous vintage art deco style design ring, the main diamond weighs 1.16 carat and is graded F-G in color and SI2 in clarity (eye clean).
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Square Ruby and Diamond Channel Half Eternity Band ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
A band that speaks of love, strength, and sophistication. Ring Information Style: Art-deco Metal: 18K White Gold Total weight: 3.38 g.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamond Baguette Ruby Openwork Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Beautifully balanced with intricate Open Work Ring detailing, this Diamond Ruby Ring showcases brilliant diamonds accented by vivid Baguette Ruby gemstones in 18K white gold.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Silvorra 3.2 Carat Natural Ruby and Diamond Floral Ring in 925 Sterling Silver
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite 925 sterling silver ring features six oval natural rubies, each measuring 5.5 x 4 mm and totaling 3.2 carats, elegantly arranged in a floral design. Surrounding the ru...
Diamond, Ruby, Silver, Sterling Silver
Fine GCI-Certified 3.17 ct Natural Unheated Ruby and Diamond Ring – 18K Gold
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
The yellow gold prong setting enhances the warmth of the ruby, while the 18K white gold shank offers a refined contrast, highlighting the clean geometry typical of 1930s Art Deco des...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
Round cut and rosecut Brown diamond and white Diamond 5.64 cts Art Deco Cocktail
By HYT
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Nature’s finest artistry meets high jewelry design. This captivating cocktail ring features a magnificent, warm brown diamond at its heart, radiating a rich, earthy brilliance. The c...
Diamond, White Diamond, Brown Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
NGI certified 1.58ct Burma Heated Ruby and Natural Diamond Ring in 18K Gold
Located in Singapore, SG
Features: Main Gemstone (1pc) - Ruby Total Carat Weight (1pc) - 1.58Ct (approx) Natural Diamonds (10pcs) - 0.15Ct Measurement of ruby - 7.3x5.9mm (Approx) Cut - Oval Clarity - ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Deco Style Baguette Ruby Half Eternity Band with Diamond Trim in Yellow Gold
By Gems Paradise
Located in Jaipur, IN
A radiant display of contemporary elegance, this Baguette Ruby Half Eternity Band is masterfully crafted in warm, lustrous 18K yellow gold, designed with a striking row of channel-se...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold
Ruby with Diamond Ring set in 18K Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ruby 1.78 carats with Diamond 0.90carat Ring set in 18K Gold Settings Width: 2.4 cm Length: 1.8 cm Ring Size: 53 Total Weight: 13.23 grams "We first opened doors in 1980 when it ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
0.70 Carat Natural Marquise Diamond, Calibre Ruby & Diamond Cocktail Ring in 18K
Located in Zurich, CH
A Striking Art Deco-Inspired Geometric Shield Ring Featuring an Eyecatching 0.70 Carat Marquise Cut Diamond, Calibre Rubies, and Pavé Accents.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1.03 CT Art Deco Yellow Diamond Ring 18K Gold Cocktail with Blue Sapphire (#27)
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Large Art Deco Style Ring Bold Impressive Statement Ring Center is Natural Yellow Diamond surrounded with Blue Sapphire. All stones are Natural 18k Two Tone Gold (White and Yellow) ...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintaged Style 0.82Ct Burma Unheated Ruby ring With Diamond
Located in Singapore, SG
Features : Main Gemstone (1pc) - Ruby Total Carat Weight (1pc) - 0.82Ct Natural Diamonds (18pcs) - 0.16Ct Measurement of ruby - 6.8x6.2mm ( Approx) Cut - Mixed Oval Cut Clarity...
Ruby, Diamond, 18k Gold
14K Yellow Gold Butterfly Heart Ring with Rubies & Diamonds
Located in Palm Desert, CA
The Butterfly Heart Ring is a charming blend of elegance and whimsy, crafted from radiant 14K yellow gold. At its center, three vibrant 2.7mm rubies add a rich pop of color, totaling...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold
Art Deco Nine Precious Gems Cocktail Ring, 14k Gold & Diamonds, India
By Gems Paradise
Located in Jaipur, IN
Nine Precious Gems Fashion Ring in Art-Deco Style This immaculate Victorian period style Navratan (nine) gems ring is mesmerizing.
Diamond, Emerald, Garnet, Pearl, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, C...
Coral with Ruby and Diamond Ring Set in 18 Karat White Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Coral 5.95 carats with Ruby 1.78 carats and Diamond 0.45 carat Ring set in 18 Karat White Gold Settings Width: 1.3 cm Length: 1.0 cm Ring Size: 53 Total Weight: 9.89 grams "We fi...
Coral, Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
18ct White Gold & Platinum, 1930s French, Diamond and Ruby Cross Cocktail Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Vintage Cocktail Ring 18ct White Gold & Platinum- French Hallmarked Circa 1930s Step into the elegance of the 1930s with this stunning Art Deco cocktail ring, a true masterpiece ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Platinum
GIA Certified 2.40 Carat Natural Ruby and Diamond Ring Made in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
A beautiful Ring made in Platinum featuring a GIA Certified 2.40 Carat Natural Ruby and 0.52 Carat Diamonds. Rubies are referred to as "Ratnaraj" in Sanskrit meaning the King of Gems...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
.35 Carat Art Deco Diamond 18 Karat White Gold Engagement Ring
Located in Hicksville, NY
Ring Size : 5 Metal Type: 18 Karat White Gold [Hallmarked, and Tested] Weight: 2.0 grams Center Stone Details: Type: Ruby Weight: .35 carat Cut: Old European brilliant Color: Red ...
Diamond, White Gold
Antique Diamond and Ruby Band. Diamond Eternity Wedding Band Platinum Links
Located in New York, NY
Era: Art Deco Era, Circa 1920 Material: Platinum Ring Size: 4.25 This rare antique wedding band features a striking Art Deco design of alternating diamond links and calibre-cut natu...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Toi et moi - Functional Rings - Wear 1 or 2 - Burmese Ruby & Diamond Rings
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Some rings captivate. Toi et Moi defines the pinnacle of rarity. This masterpiece unites two extraordinary forces of nature — a pairing that symbolizes duality, destiny, and the mee...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Ruby and Diamond Ring GRS Certified 2.58 Carat Burma No Heat in 18K Gold
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Introducing a brand new ruby and diamond ring by Rewa Jewels. This ring has been inspired by traditional Art Deco themes through it's symmetrical designs and traditional shaped such ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 1.95ct Burma Ruby And Old Cut Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Firenze, IT
The ring also features an openwork gallery and a yellow gold stem on which rest two platinum cheniered shoulders adorned with three diamonds on each side, details that contribute to ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum
C1940 Harem Ring with 3 Bands of Rubies Diamonds and Sapphires size 5.5
Located in Baltimore, MD
We love this patriotic red white and blue harem ring with its 3 rows of 5 sapphires, 5 diamonds and 5 rubies connected by a gold strap. This harem ring has particular significance in...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, 14k Gold
Buccellati Ruby Ring. 7.40ct Oval Cut Burma Ruby Diamond 18K Yellow Gold 1970
By Buccellati
Located in New York, NY
Other Details: Primary Stone: Ruby Center Ruby Weight: 7.40 carats Center Ruby Cut: Oval Cut Gemstone Origin: Burma Secondary Stones: Diamonds Stone Setting: Bezel-set Jewelry Type...
Ruby, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
18ct Gold 1920s Art Deco Octagonal Cut Aquamarine & Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Art Deco Aquamarine Ring 18ct Gold Tested Circa 1920s Introducing a stunning 18ct yellow gold ring from the glamorous 1920s, epitomising the elegance of the Art Deco era.
Aquamarine, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
$4,000Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 0.40 Carat Vintage Style 14K White Gold Diamond and Ruby Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
This stunning vintage-inspired target ring showcases a 0.40 carat GIA certified round brilliant diamond at its center, graded H color and SI2 clarity, providing a bright white and ey...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
1.15 Carat Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamond Ruby Platinum Engagement Ring
Located in New York, NY
This amazing platinum ring from the Art Deco era is centered with a sparkling old mine cushion cut diamond that weighs 1.15ct. and is graded K color with VS2 clarity.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Ruby with Tsavorite and Diamond Ring Set in 18 Karat White Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ruby 1.36 carats with Tsavorite 0.74 carat and Diamond 0.21 carat Ring set in 18 Karat White Gold Settings Width: 1.5 cm Length: 1.7 cm Ring Size: 52 Total Weight: 7.47 grams "We...
Diamond, Ruby, Tsavorite, 18k Gold, White Gold
Oval Ruby and Diamond Double Halo 18K Yellow & White Gold Octagonal Dress Ring
Located in London, GB
This ruby and diamond cocktail ring has a softly defined octagonal shape, giving it a bit more presence than a traditional cluster. At the centre, an oval ruby of vivid pinkish-red ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Gold Cocktail Art Deco Ring with 2.66ct Natural Fancy Color Diamonds
By HYT
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Architectural design meets playful brilliance. Featuring an eclectic arrangement of natural yellow and warm-toned fancy color diamonds—including rose cuts, marquise, and pear shapes—...
Diamond, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
Burma Unheated Ruby and Natural Diamonds Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Singapore, SG
Kindly note that the stated price for this item is fixed and non-negotiable. We appreciate your understanding and respect for our pricing decision. Features: Main Gemstone (1pcs) -...
Ruby, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14 Karat Gold Black Onyx and Pink Opal Round Beads Rubies Black Diamonds Ring
By Tutti Frutti Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Unique and elegant Art Deco Style ring composed of a flat oval ring in solid 14 Kt yellow gold with 3 round black onyx beads with small faceted rubies set on one side and 3 pink op...
Black Diamond, Onyx, Opal, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Fascination with the Jazz Age is endless, and even today jewelry designers continue to be inspired by authentic Art Deco jewelry and watches.
The Art Deco period, encompassing the 1920s and ’30s, ushered in a very distinct look in the design of jewelry. There were many influences on the jewelry of the era that actually began to take shape prior to the 1920s. In 1909, Serge Diaghilev brought the Ballet Russes to Paris, and women went wild for the company’s exotic and vibrant costumes It’s no wonder, then, that jade, lapis lazuli, coral, turquoise and other bright gemstones became all the rage. There already existed a fascination with the East, particularly China and Japan, and motifs consisting of fans and masks started to show up in Art Deco jewelry.
However, the event that had the greatest influence on Deco was the excavation of the tomb of King Tut in 1922. When the world saw what was hidden in Tut’s burial chamber, it sent just about everyone into a frenzy. Pierre Cartier wrote in 1923 that “the discovery of the tomb will bring some sweeping changes in fashion jewelry.” And he couldn’t have been more right. “Egyptomania” left an indelible mark on all of the major jewelry houses, from Cartier to Van Cleef & Arpels, Boucheron and Georges Fouquet. (Cartier created some of the most iconic jewelry designs that defined this era.)
While a lot of Art Deco jewelry was black and white — the black coming from the use of onyx or black enamel and the white from rock crystal and diamonds — there is plenty of color in jewelry of the era. A perfect accent to diamonds in platinum settings were blue sapphires, emeralds and rubies, and these stones were also used in combination with each other.
Many designers employed coral, jade and lapis lazuli, too. In fact, some of the most important avant-garde jewelers of the period, like Jean Després and Jean Fouquet (son of Georges), would combine white gold with ebony and malachite for a jolt of color.
A lot of the jewelry produced during this time nodded to current fashion trends, and women often accessorized their accessories. The cloche hat was often accented with geometric diamond brooches or double-clip brooches. Backless evening dresses looked fabulous with sautoir necklaces, and long pearl necklaces that ended with tassels, popular during the Edwardian period, were favored by women everywhere, including Coco Chanel.
Find unique Art Deco necklaces, earrings, bracelets and other 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.
Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.
Ready to rock? Some of our favorite jewelry designers and dealers share indispensable advice for choosing that most important ring.
Will your beloved be enchanted by an Edwardian ring or a trendy Art Deco piece? We clue you into period styles and tips for finding the perfect ring.