Art Deco GIA 1.06 carat rose cut diamond onyx platinum engagement ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
The ring is expertly crafted in platinum, a premium metal known for its strength, density, and enduring white luster that complements both diamonds and onyx beautifully.
Diamond, White Diamond, Onyx, Platinum
Coral, Onyx, Diamond and Black Diamond 0Ring Set in 18 Karat White Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Coral, Onyx, Diamond 0.51 carat and Black Diamond 0.82 carat Ring set in 18 Karat White Gold Settings Width: 2.3 cm Length: 2.7 cm Ring Size: 54 Total Weight: 14.53 grams "We fir...
Coral, Black Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
14K Rose Gold Black Onyx and 1/5 Cttw Blue and White Diamond Halo Cocktail Ring
Located in New York, NY
Product Features: Diamond Type: Natural White and Blue Diamonds Diamond Count: Total 36 Diamonds Includes 24 Round White diamond and 12 Blue Diamond Round-Cut Diamonds Diamond Color...
White Diamond, Onyx, Rose Gold, 14k Gold
Art Deco–Style Platinum Diamond & Onyx Ring — 1.15 Carats, Size 6.75
Located in Miami, FL
A platinum ring featuring a dramatic combination of diamonds and sleek black onyx, designed in a bold Art Deco–inspired motif.
Diamond, Onyx, Platinum
Oscar Caplan Art Deco 2.20 Carat Onyx 0.50 Carat Diamond Platinum Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This stunning, fine and impressive vintage onyx and diamond ring has been crafted in platinum.
Diamond, Onyx, Platinum
Diamond Onyx Art Deco Style Cocktail Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Bold Art Deco–inspired ring, centered with a brilliant round-cut diamond that radiates timeless sparkle.
Onyx, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
GIA Certified 3.34 Carat Diamond Ruby Onyx White Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Stamford, CT
Diamond with French cut ruby and black onyx cocktail ring.
Diamond, Onyx, Ruby, Platinum
Diamond Onyx Art Deco Style Target Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Discover a stunning Art Deco–inspired ring, centered with a brilliant round-cut diamond that radiates timeless sparkle.
Onyx, Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
David Yurman Albion Diamond Onyx Sterling Silver Halo Cable Ring Size 5.5
By David Yurman
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: David Yurman Collection: Albion Style: Diamond Halo Cable Ring Material: Sterling silver Gemstone: Natural black onyx 11mm Diamonds: Approximately 0.19 ct Design: Squar...
Onyx, Diamond, Sterling Silver
Coral, Onyx, Diamonds, 18 Karat White and Rose Gold Ring
Located in Marcianise, CE
Diamonds 2.16 ct Black Diamonds 2.24 ct Coral 1.90 gr Onyx 2.00 gr Total Weight 21.90 gr RF +GEIAF RK.AGHFI130 Italian Size 12 Usa Size 6.17 French Size 52 For any inquiries,please...
Onyx, Diamond, Coral, White Gold, Rose Gold, 18k Gold
Turquoise Diamonds Coral Onyx 18 Karat White Gold Cocktail Ring
By SCALA GIOIELLI
Located in Marcianise, IT
The turquoise is set to be the visual focal point, surrounded by an intricate mosaic of diamonds and small flowers crafted in black onyx, red coral, and additional turquoise details.
Coral, Diamond, Onyx, Turquoise, 18k Gold, White Gold
ETTORE SOTTSASS "SCIVOLO" a Statement 18ct gold onyx diamonds ring 1980'
By Ettore Sottsass
Located in Bruxelles, BE
Large 18ct gold ring, long rectangular gold table on which is set a black onyx disc, a small bar set with diamonds.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold
Art Deco inspired 1.56 carat pear shape emerald diamond platinum onyx ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Calibre cut onyx introduces sharp black accents, creating the unmistakable contrast that defines classic Art Deco design.
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, Platinum
Vintage 14k Yellow Gold Black Onyx Army Air Corps Signet Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
The substantial ring mount is ornamented with a bezel set oval black onyx panel in slight relief to the center of the design.
Onyx, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Deco Diamond on Oval Onyx Slab Engraved Gold Vintage Ring
Located in Montreal, QC
The Oval Black Onyx Slab centers an Old European-cut Diamond, weighing approx. 0.14 Carat.
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cabochon Onyx and Diamond Halo Cocktail Ring in 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This striking black onyx and diamond ring makes a bold and sophisticated statement, centered around a large, generously proportioned cushion-shaped black onyx that commands the compo...
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
art deco design, Ceylon Sapphire, Onyx and Diamonds in 14ct Yellow Gold ring
Located in Sydney, NSW
14ct yellow gold dress ring, narrow, flat ribbed shank with open back, 4 claw setting with diamond and black onyx surround, polished finish.
Black Diamond, Onyx, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Onyx and Diamond Art Deco Style Ring in 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Symbolizing bold devotion, this Onyx Diamond Ring features a sleek black onyx tablet accented by a brilliant center diamond.
Blue Sapphire, Onyx, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
Black Onyx White Agate Yin Yang Motif White Diamond Halo 14K Gold Signet Ring
By Galt & Bro. Jewelers
Located in Tysons, VA
Elegant Yin Yang Statement Ring. This striking ring features a yin yang design with contrasting black onyx and white agate gemstones, surrounded by a border of sparkling diamonds.
Agate, Diamond, White Diamond, Gold
18 Karat White Gold Floral Diamond Pave, Ruby and Onyx Dome Ring
By LB Exclusive
Located in Southampton, PA
The ring is made of 18 white gold and boasts shanks accented with black onyx.
White Diamond, Onyx, Ruby, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
White Gold Onyx Diamond Art Deco Ring - 18k Vintage Filigree Milgrain
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 Sizing Fee: Up 2 sizes for $40 or Down 1 size for $30 Era: Art Deco Date: 1920s - 1930s Metal Content: 18k White Gold Stone Information Natural Onyx Color: Black Natural...
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
Art deco inspired, Colombian Emerald, Onyx and Diamonds in 14ct Yellow Gold ring
Located in Sydney, NSW
Art Deco style 14ct yellow gold dress ring, narrow, low half round, tapered shank with open back, 4 claw setting with diamond and black onyx halo surrounds, polished finish, stamped ...
Onyx, Emerald, Diamond
18k Gold Statement RIng Featuring An Unenhanced Mozambique Ruby, Onyx & Diamonds
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This stone has been certified by the highly venerated Gemological institute of America.* The sultry bezel set gem is surrounded by a masterfully crafted black onyx frame around which...
Diamond, Onyx, Ruby, 18k Gold
Rossella Ugolini 18K Gold 0.30 Carats Canary Diamonds Onyx Bold Cocktail Ring
By Rossella Ugolini
Located in Rome, IT
Unique Design for a very Bold ring. Dimension: Sugarloaf Cabochon Onyx 20mmx20mm Canary Diamonds : Ct 0.30 18k Yellow gold gr: 23,73 Bold and comfortable 18-karat yellow gold cocktai...
Diamond, Onyx, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Yello...
Modern Rose Gold Diamond Onyx Zebra Cocktail Ring
Located in New York, NY
Modern 18k rose gold wide ring, featuring zebra stripes design, set with black onyx and approx. 1.60ctw in H/VS diamonds.
Diamond, Rose Gold, Enamel
South Sea Pearl Onyx Diamond Ring Déco Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
The South Sea pearl and diamond cocktail ring features a pearl of 17mm diameter.
White Diamond, Onyx, South Sea Pearl, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Di Modolo Favola Onyx & Diamond Ring - White Gold 18k .72ctw Geometric
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 8 Sizing Fee: Up 3 sizes for $60 or Down 2 sizes for $40 Brand: Di Modolo Collection: Favola Metal Content: 18k White Gold Stone Information Natural Onyx Color: Black Natu...
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
Two Stripes Black Onyx Men's Ring 14 Karat Yellow Gold, Size 11, UNISEX
Located in New York, NY
Two Stripes Black Onyx Men's Ring 14 Karat Yellow Gold, Size 11 UNISEX RING 14 K gold 7 Grams, Stamped for 14 K gold This is a Engagement band from premium wedding collection. Ri...
White Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Simply Tacori 2654 East West Marquise Shaped Black Onyx Ring in 18K White Gold
By Tacori
Located in Old Tappan, NJ
18K white gold Tacori "Simply Tacori" collection, hand engraved east west ring with diamonds totaling 0.08 carats and one marquise shaped black onyx.
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
Golden Pearl And Diamond Cocktail Ring Onyx Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
The pearl is flanked by custom cut black onyx detail lending the ring an art déco vibe.
White Diamond, Onyx, South Sea Pearl, Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold Pearl Diamond Onyx Agate Cocktail Ring by SCALA
By SCALA GIOIELLI
Located in Marcianise, IT
Perfect for special occasions or to elevate an everyday look, it is destined to become an iconic and timeless piece in any jewelry collection. Ring total weight 14.80 grams Diamonds...
Diamond, Onyx, Pearl, Agate, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamond Onyx Art Deco Style Rectangular Shape Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
The centerpiece is surrounded by a bold rectangular frame of polished black onyx, defining the ring’s strong geometric character.
Onyx, Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
South Sea Pearl Diamond Onyx Ring Déco Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
The pearl is set on a crown of diamonds interleaved with black onyx cabochons, lending the jewel a distinctive art déco look.
Pearl, Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Onyx, White Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Diamond Onyx Art Deco Style Square Shape Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Encircling the diamond, a sleek frame of deep black onyx forms a striking contrast, enhancing the stone’s brilliance with dramatic elegance.
Onyx, Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
Vintage Art Deco Onyx and Diamond Sterling Silver Ring Estate Fine Jewelry
Located in Montreal, QC
The Oval Black Onyx centers an Old European-cut Diamond, weighing approx: 0.45 Carat Hand set in double bezel 14K White Gold setting.
Diamond, Onyx, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
MODERNIST 18K White Gold Diamond, Pink Sapphire and Onyx Floral Bombe Ring
Located in Miami, FL
The shoulders of the ring are hand-carved from polished black onyx, providing a sleek, nocturnal elegance that balances the brilliance of the diamond-set top.
Diamond, Onyx, Pink Sapphire, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ostby & Barton Onyx Diamond Art Deco Men's Ring - Yellow Gold 10k Rectangular
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 Sizing Fee: Up 2 sizes for $50 or Down 1 size for $40 Brand: Ostby & Barton Era: Art Deco Metal Content: 10k Yellow Gold & 10k White Gold Stone Information Natura...
Diamond, Onyx, 10k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold Onyx Clover Motif and Diamond Ring
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This stunning piece features a striking black onyx centerpiece, elegantly surrounded by sparkling diamonds totaling 0.05 carats, creating a perfect blend of sophistication and charm.
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Diamond and Onyx Art Deco Style Dinner Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
A brilliant round diamond at its center, framed by sleek rectangular onyx that adds striking contrast.
Onyx, Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
Vintage Coral, Diamond and Onyx Ring in 18K Gold, Circa 1970, 1.2Ct
Located in Miami, FL
A dramatic and sophisticated Italian cocktail ring from the 1970s, crafted in rich 18K yellow gold and showcasing a bold combination of red coral, black onyx, and brilliant-cut diamo...
Coral, Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Aquamarine Onyx Diamond Art Deco Style Cocktail Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Surrounding the centerpiece, a halo of sparkling diamonds enhances its clarity and light, while an outer layer of deep black onyx adds bold contrast and definition.
Onyx, Aquamarine, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Ladies Antique Mixed Metals Silver Palladium Rhodium Square Onyx Diamond Ring
Located in Houston, TX
Weight: 8.33 grams Ladies handmade filigreed silver and 14K palladium white gold diamond and onyx antique cocktail halo ring with a half round shank.
Diamond, Onyx, White Gold, Palladium, Rhodium, Silver, Mixed Metal
$1,436Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage English 18k Gold Oval Black Onyx Floral Sides Platter Cocktail Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
–Stone(s)– (1) Natural Genuine Onyx - Oval Cut - Multi Prong Set - Black Color - 21.5x15.5mm (approx.)
Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cocktail Ring with Black and White Diamonds in 18 Karat Gold by Enrico Dani
By Enrico Dani
Located in London, GB
Beautiful black and white cluster ring in a flower motif created from fine white chalcedony and black onyx where the petals and centre cabochons are in white contrast to the black pe...
Chalcedony, White Diamond, Black Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold
Silver925 Onyx Cubic Zirconia Vintage Style Filigree Ring
Located in Bangkok, TH
This vintage-style filigree ring is crafted from 925 sterling silver, featuring intricate openwork that captures timeless charm. Delicate lines create depth and graceful movement, hi...
Diamond, Onyx, Silver
Aquamarine Sapphire Onyx Diamond Art Deco Style Scalloped Engagement Ring in 18K
Located in Bangkok, TH
Concentric layers of vibrant French-cut sapphires and striking black onyx create a bold geometric pattern, beautifully bordered by a scalloped outer halo of glittering white diamonds...
Diamond, Aquamarine, Onyx, Sapphire, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Blue Topaz Onyx Diamond Art Deco Style Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Black onyx shoulders and sparkling natural diamond accents create a bold architectural contrast, enhancing the ring’s timeless geometric design.
Blue Topaz, Topaz, Onyx, Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
Emerald Onyx Diamond Art Deco Style Halo Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
An exquisite showcase of geometric contrast, this Emerald Halo Ring centers an oval vivid green emerald surrounded by sculpted black onyx and diamond accents.
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique 10K Yellow Gold Swivel Ring with Onyx and Cameo, Art Deco
Located in Sewickley, PA
One side showcases a sleek black onyx panel, centered with a a diamond to give a bold classic art deco inspired look.
Onyx, 10k Gold
Antique 14K Yellow Gold Diamond, Onyx and Enamel Cluster Ring Size 5 #23051
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Antique 14K Yellow Gold Diamond, Onyx and Enamel Cluster Ring Size 5 This bold antique ring showcases a dazzling cluster of 38 old mine cut diamonds set in warm 14K yellow gold.
Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Deco 18K White Gold Natural Diamond Onyx Cocktail Ring, Circa 1930
Located in Marcianise, IT
The design is a harmonious blend of sophistication and geometric precision, with the sleek onyx accents creating a striking contrast against the diamonds.
Onyx, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Elongated Cushion Green Tsavorite Sapphire Onyx Diamond Art Deco Style Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
This bold and colorful Art Deco style ring highlights a gorgeous gleaming emerald cut green tsavorite framed in eye-catching contrast by French cut blue sapphire and black onyx.
Diamond, Onyx, Blue Sapphire, Tsavorite, 18k Gold, White Gold
18mm South Sea Pearl Diamond Cocktail Ring Onyx Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
The South Sea pearl and diamond cocktail ring features a large and beautiful pearl of 18mm diameter.
White Diamond, Onyx, South Sea Pearl, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
10 Carat Round Black Onyx Unisex Ring 14 Karat Yellow Gold Size 5.75
Located in New York, NY
Introducing our exquisite 14 Karat Yellow Gold Unisex Ring featuring a stunning 10 carat round Black Onyx gemstone. Crafted with 14.2 grams of 14K gold, this ring showcases exception...
White Diamond, Onyx, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cocktail Ring 18.5mm Pearl Onyx Diamond White Gold Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
All diamonds are of top quality (F/G-VVS). The design is complete with 2 strips of custom cut black onyx, lending the jewel a distinctive art déco look.
White Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Onyx, Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
6ct Garnet, Diamond and Onyx Dome Ring in 14ct Yellow Gold - Fei Liu
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, .
A striking statement ring featuring a 6.05ct garnet of rich, fiery depth, framed by 0.16ct of brilliant diamonds and complemented by 16.05ct of glossy black enamel.
Diamond, White Diamond, Garnet, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
South Sea Pearl 19.5mm Diamond Onyx Cocktail Ring Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
The flanks of the shank are set with custom-cut black onyx, lending the jewel a distinctive art déco look.
Pearl, Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Onyx, White Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Diamond Turquoise and Onyx Art Deco Style Cocktail Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
The combination of diamond sparkle, rich turquoise, and black onyx captures the timeless elegance and geometric beauty of Art Deco style.
Diamond, Onyx, Turquoise, 14k Gold, White Gold
Diamond Onyx Yin Yang Ring 14K Gold Arthur Mitchell Dance Theater Harlem Ballet
Located in New York, NY
HERE WE HAVE A WONDERFUL YIN AND YANG RING. THE YIN AND YANG DESIGN IS DONE IN 9 SPARKLING WHITE DIAMONDS AND BLACK ONYX AND SET IN 14K GOLD.
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Octagon Pink Kunzite & Diamond Pave Set Onyx Art Deco Style White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
The sides of the polished white gold ring are edged with black onyx for an extra touch of elegance. 14K White Gold.
Diamond, Kunzite, Onyx, 14k Gold, White 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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