Carrera Y Carrera 18 Karat Gold Ring with Black Onyx and .47 Carat Diamonds
By Carrera y Carrera
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Carrera Y Carrera 18 karat yellow gold cocktail ring. The squarish domed shaped ring is set with ribbed black onyx and accented with round brilliant diamonds.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1970s 14KT Yellow Gold Diamond and Black Onyx Ring
Located in New York, NY
Made with 14KT yellow gold and adorned with beautiful diamonds and black onyx, this vintage ring is the perfect accessory for any special occasion.
Diamond, Onyx, Yellow Gold
14K White Gold Black Onyx Diamond Ring Size 4.5 #18050
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K White Gold Black Onyx Diamond Ring Size 4.5 This beautiful ring was crafted form 14K white gold with meticulous detail and features a stunning black onyx stone decorated with a ...
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Cocktail 18kt white Gold Ring with Onyx & Diamonds 18k Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Aventura, FL
Period: 2000´s Style: Contemporary Metal: 18Kt Gold Stone: Natural white and black Diamond & Onyx Ring size: 7 1/2 (sizable).
Diamond, White Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Black Onyx and Diamond 18K Yellow Gold Ring, circa 1970s
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This sleek 1970s crown motif ring features a central round cabochon black onyx stone measuring 8 mm in diameter, elegantly framed by 15 round brilliant-cut diamonds totaling approxim...
Diamond, Onyx, Yellow Gold, Gold, 18k Gold
Black Onyx and Diamond Dome Yellow Gold Ring, circa 1970s
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This grandiose 1970s black onyx and diamond dome ring, crafted in 14K yellow gold, captures the bold elegance of the era with its tiered, raised design.
Diamond, Onyx, Yellow Gold, Gold, 14k Gold
Vintage 14K White Gold Black Onyx & Diamond Navette Filigree Ring, Ring Size 6
Located in McLeansville, NC
Stones: black onyx diamond Ring Size: 6 Rise Off Of Finger: 4.6 mm Length: 19.9 mm Weight: 1.9 dwts/ 2.9 grams Metal: "14k" SKU: R4135 A Couple Of Things to Note: * This is a ...
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold
Maria Canale Gold Pyramide Black Onyx Ring
By Maria Canale
Located in Miami, FL
The design features bold black onyx pyramids, each elegantly set with brilliant diamonds at the center, creating a striking contrast between the deep black tones and the warm glow of...
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold
18 Karat White Gold Diamond and Black Onyx Fashion Ring
By Gems Paradise
Located in Jaipur, IN
18 Karat White Gold Diamond and Black Onyx Fashion Ring Brilliance and luster in collaboration with simplicity is what this gorgeous ring has to offer.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
Round Black Onyx Cabochon Diamonds Swirl Scroll 14K Rose Gold Diamond Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
A striking and unique ring. This piece features a bold black onyx set in a 14k rose gold band.
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
18 Karat White Gold Diamond and Black Onyx Cocktail Ring
By Gems Paradise
Located in Jaipur, IN
18 Karat White Gold Diamond and Black Onyx Cocktail Ring This ring offers a beautiful combination of brilliance and craftsmanship.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
Rectangular Black Onyx Center White Diamonds 14K Gold Floral Cocktail Ring
By Galt & Bro. Jewelers
Located in Tysons, VA
A fusion of elegance and bold design. This striking signet ring features a sleek black onyx centerpiece, gracefully curved to catch the light.
Diamond, Onyx, Gold
1950s Black Onyx and 1.68 Carat Diamond White Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A fine and impressive vintage black onyx and 1.68 carat diamond, 18 karat white gold cocktail ring; part of our diverse vintage jewelry collections.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
$4,240Sale Price|20% Off
3.92 carats, Emerald Sugarloaf, Chalcedony, Black Onyx & Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Emerald, Chalcedony & Black Onyx Cocktail Ring set in 18K Yellow Gold & natural Diamonds.
Chalcedony, Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, 18k 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
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
Vintage Estate Diamond Onyx Platinum Ring
Located in Southampton, PA
Featuring 0.62 carats total weight of dazzling diamonds, it’s accented with sleek black onyx inlays.
Diamond, Onyx, Platinum
Vintage Black Onyx Diamond Two-Tone Ring in 14k Gold
Located in Wan Chai District, HK
Introducing our Vintage Black Onyx Diamond Two-Tone Ring in 14K Gold, a stunning piece of jewelry that showcases the perfect blend of elegance and style.
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$720Sale Price|20% Off
David Yurman Sterling Silver Split Shank Black Onyx and Diamond RIng
By David Yurman
Located in New York, NY
The striking black onyx centerpiece is beautifully complemented by 0.20ct of G-H VS1 diamonds, adding a touch of sparkle to this timeless accessory.
Diamond, Onyx, Sterling Silver
David Yurman 18k Wheaton Ring Faceted Black Onyx Diamonds Yellow Gold
By David Yurman
Located in Perry, FL
Authentic Designer David Yurman 18K Wheaton Ring with Stately Black Onyx Stone and Brilliant Fiery Round Diamonds Flanking Each Side.
Diamond, Onyx, Yellow Gold
Diamond & Black Onyx Edwardian Inspired Style Dinner 14K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
With elegant filigree setting, a black onyx center is elevated on this lovely Art Deco white gold ring.
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold
Diamond & Black Onyx Vintage Inspired Style Halo 14K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
The simplicity of the black onyx with the white of the diamonds works so well!
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold
Aquamarine and Onyx Ring. 1ct Aquamarine Onyx Diamond Double Halo Ring Platinum
Located in New York, NY
The striking center stone is framed by sleek black onyx and a halo of pave-set old European-cut diamonds, forming a geometric design that epitomizes the bold elegance of the era.
Aquamarine, Diamond, Onyx, Platinum
Diamond & Black Onyx Art Deco Style Dinner 14K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
A stunning, fine and impressive Art Deco style diamond and onyx halo ring. A total of 0.058 carats of diamond are set in square shaped onyx. A stunning piece to match with your every...
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold
Diamond & Black Onyx Vintage Inspired Art Deco Style White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this ring showcases the artistry typical of the Art Deco era, combining geometric shapes with luxurious materials. At the heart of this s...
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold
14K White Gold Black Onyx Diamond Ring Size 4.75-5 #16945
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K White Gold Black Onyx Diamond Ring Size 4.75-5 This gorgeous ring features a black onyx stone set in 14K white gold with a sparkling single cut diamond in the center!
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Art Deco ring with onyx and diamonds approx. 0.40 ct, 1930.
Located in Chorzów, PL
Fashionable during the Art Deco era, onyx and diamond rings captivated with their contrast of black and brilliance, combining geometric precision with the elegance of the 1920s and 1...
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold
$1,550 / item
Onyx Diamond Meghna Jewels Marquise Ring
By Meghna Jewels
Located in Hoffman Estate, IL
This beautiful marquise ring is hand set in 7.54 carats black onyx and .71 carats of diamonds.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, Sterling Silver
Bulgari Bvlgari Serpenti Snake Viper Black Onyx & Diamond Pave 18K Gold Ring
By Bulgari
Located in Tysons, VA
Bulgari Serpenti Viper ring crafted in luxurious 18K gold and accented with rich black onyx and brilliant natural diamonds.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold
$2,080Sale Price|20% Off
Set in 18K Gold, Tourmaline cabochon, Black Onyx & Diamonds Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, Tourmaline & Black Onyx Engagement Ring set in 18K Gold & natural Diamonds.
Diamond, Onyx, Tourmaline, 18k Gold
$1,176Sale Price / item|20% Off
Art Deco Black Onyx Fan Shape Open Ring with Diamonds in 18k Solid Rose Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Art Deco Black Onyx Fan Shape Open Ring with Diamonds in 18K Gold featuring natural onyx of 0.99 carats and diamonds of 0.24 carats.
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Onyx Ring Diamond Papillon Ring
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A feminine Van Cleef & Arpels onyx ring, made of 18k gold, featuring diamonds.
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold
$960Sale Price|20% Off
Handmade 0.52 Carat Diamond Black Onyx Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This exquisite ring is a true masterpiece, combining the timeless elegance of black onyx with the dazzling brilliance of a diamond.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
4.5CTW Black Onyx Diamond Adjustable Cocktail Ring in 14K Solid Yellow Gold Ring
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
4.5CTW Black Onyx Diamond Adjustable Cocktail Ring in 14K Solid Yellow Gold Ring featuring natural black onyx of 4.5 carats and diamonds of 0.50 carats.
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Deco Style Natural Ruby Cab Black Onyx Ring Gold Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By Tutti Frutti Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Classic and elegant ring composed of a big Natural Ruby cabochon measuring 19x28mm surmounted by a brilliant cut Diamond in a Black Onyx ring and set in a 14k white gold bezel...Th...
Diamond, Onyx, Ruby, Gold, White Gold
Vintage 18K Gold Fluted Black Onyx and Diamond Knot Style Ring
Located in Henderson, NV
Vintage 18K yellow gold large domed cocktail ring with a stylized knot design, composed of pave set round brilliant cut diamonds set against fluted onyx and gold sections. Diamonds: ...
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Yellow Gold Rectangular Black Onyx w/ Diamond Center Platter Dinner Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
--Stone(s):-- (1) Natural Genuine Onyx - Rectangular Cut - Bezel Set - Black- 13.1x11.3mm (approx.) (1) Natural Genuine Diamond - Single Cut - Pave Set - Nice Brilliant White Diamond...
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, Yellow Gold
Green Amethyst Prasiolite & Black Onyx Diamond Art Deco Style Hexagon Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Discover a magnificent piece that combines Art Deco design elegance with contemporary style. This stunning ring features a chic hexagonal setting that beautifully showcases a captiva...
Amethyst, Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 18KT Yellow Gold David Yurman Black Onyx And Diamond Ring
By David Yurman
Located in New York, NY
The ring is crafted from high-quality 18KT yellow gold and adorned with a beautiful onyx stone and 0.75CT-TW diamonds, making it a luxurious and timeless accessory for any wardrobe. ...
Diamond, Onyx, Yellow Gold
Antique 18K White Gold Rectangular Black Onyx Circular Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Houston, TX
Gender: Ladies Metal Type: 18K White Gold Ring Size: 5.5 Head measures: 26.00 mm x 14.30 mm Shank maximum width: 2.90 mm Weight: 6.14 grams 18K White Gold diamond and onyx anti...
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Set in 18K Gold, natural, Mozambique Ruby, Black Onyx & Diamonds Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, Art Deco style, Ruby & Black Onyx Engagement Cocktail Ring set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds.
Diamond, Onyx, Ruby, 18k Gold
Vintage Geometric Black Onyx 14k Gold ring with diamonds. Sz 3.5
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Details: 14k white Gold, total ring weight 3.5 grams. Onyx is measured 7mm by 14mm side diamonds are 1.5mm each Hallmarked 14k
14k Gold
Art Deco Onyx and Diamond Ring
Located in London, GB
Condition: Used (Good) Weight: 3.3 grams Ring Size: O (55) Face Dimensions: 17mm x 10mm Central Diamond Weight: Approx. 0.28ct Diamond Details: Colour: H, Clarity: SI1 Marked: '585' ...
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold
Onyx and Pink Tourmaline 18K Gold Dome Ring with Diamonds
Located in Monte Carlo, MC
This ring, offered by Claris-A, features carved black onyx forming a smooth, sculptural frame, its deep polished surface creating a bold contrast against two pear-shaped pink tourmal...
Onyx, Tourmaline, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Art Deco 14K White Gold Filigree Ring with Diamond & Onyx, 1930s
Located in Montreal, QC
The Oval Black Onyx Slab centers an .02 Carat Diamond. Hand crafted 14K White Gold Filigree mounting.
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Retro 18KT Yellow Gold Dome Ring with Onyx, Emeralds & Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
A striking design from the Retro era, this vintage dome ring combines ribbed black onyx, vibrant square-cut emeralds (1.00 carat total), and 2.25 carats of brilliant round G-VS diamo...
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
.925 Sterling Silver Black Onyx and Yellow Citrine Marquise and Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
Introducing a stunning piece that exudes elegance and sophistication, this .925 Sterling Silver Fleur De Lis Fashion Band Ring is a true masterpiece. Crafted with care, it showcases ...
Onyx, White Diamond, Diamond, Citrine, Sterling Silver, Rhodium
$5,440Sale Price|20% Off
8.25 carats, Zambian Emerald, Black Onyx & Diamonds Engagement Ring in 18K Gold
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Emerald & Black Onyx Engagement Ring set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds.
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, 18k Gold
Art Deco Platinum Ring with 0.45ct Diamond and Onyx, Circa 1940
Located in OVIEDO, AS
Platinum, Diamond and Onyx Art Deco Style Ring 1940's ring with a bright and shining central European-cut diamond floating in the center, estimated at 0.45carat, collet-set in plat...
Diamond, Onyx, Platinum
Antique Black Onyx and 0.46 Carat Diamond 18 Karat Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This impressive black onyx and diamond ring is supplied with an IDGL diamond and gemstone grading report card.
Diamond, Onyx, Yellow Gold, Platinum
White Gold Black Onyx Citrine & 0.60ctw Diamond Open Work Unique Band Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
--Stone(s):-- (4) Natural Genuine Onyx - Custom Cut - Inlaid Set - Black Color (4) Natural Genuine Citrines - Custom Cut w/ Buff Top - Bezel Set - Orangy-Yellow Color (72) Natural Ge...
Citrine, Diamond, Onyx, Gold, White Gold
.925 Sterling Silver Black Onyx and Yellow Citrine Marquise and Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
Introducing a stunning piece that exudes elegance and sophistication, this .925 Sterling Silver Fleur De Lis Fashion Band Ring is a true masterpiece. Crafted with care, it showcases ...
Onyx, White Diamond, Diamond, Citrine, Sterling Silver, Rhodium
6Ct Natural PURPLE Sapphire , Black Onyx & Pave Diamond Ring & Earring Set 18KG
Located in New York, NY
A Vintage classic, Ring and earring set 6 Ct of total Natural PURPLE Sapphire in the ring and earring set with Black Onyx & Pave Diamond Ring & Earring Set in 18 Karat yellow gold...
Diamond, Onyx, Purple Sapphire, Platinum, 18k Gold
Onyx Diamond Gold Bombe Cocktail Ring
Located in New York, NY
High style 18kt Yellow Gold Ring with pave set Diamond sides set in Platinum and polished Black Onyx Body.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, Platinum, Yellow Gold
Pasquale Bruni 'Ghirlanda' Onyx, Black Spinel and Diamond 18K White Gold Ring
By Pasquale Bruni
Located in London, GB
To add sparkle and shine to this dramatic Pasquale Bruni ring, a few fine quality round brilliant cut diamonds intertwine with the black gemstones, while the wide shoulders are decor...
Diamond, Onyx, Spinel, Black Spinel, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat Gold 7.03 Carat Diamond, Black Onyx and Morganite Solitaire Ring
By Gems Paradise
Located in Jaipur, IN
A marvel of exquisite craftsmanship, the 18 Karat Gold Solitaire Ring showcases a stunning 7.03 carat diamond, complemented by black onyx and morganite accents.
Diamond, Morganite, Onyx, 18k Gold
Set in 18K Gold, Rubellite, Black Onyx & Diamonds Art Deco Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, Art deco style, Rubellite & Black Onyx Engagement Ring set in 18K Gold and natural Diamonds.
Diamond, Onyx, Rubelite, 18k 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.”
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.