Vintage Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring 18K Yellow Gold Lotus GIA
Located in Montgomery, AL
We are loving this vintage ruby & diamond ring!! Burmese rubies are highly sought after for their vibrant natural colors.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Victorian Burmese Ruby and Diamond Navette Ring
Located in London, GB
The ring's face showcases a central marquise cut ruby with three old cut diamonds set above and below and crafted in 18ct yellow gold and platinum.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Burma Ruby, Diamond and White Gold Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Set with an oval-cut ruby weighing approximately 1.65 carats, the frame and shoulders accented by round diamonds, in 18k white gold, size 5 3/4 With report 5211472392 dated 19 Februa...
Buccellati Burmese Ruby Ring, Italian, circa 1940
By Mario Buccellati
Located in London, GB
Buccellati Burmese ruby ring. Set with an oval mixed cut natural unenhanced Burmese ruby in an open back rubover setting with an approximate weight of 1.20 carats, to an impressive s...
Ruby, 18k Gold
Vintage 18k White Gold Cluster Ring Diamond Ruby 1.75ct Burma
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This vintage 18k white gold cluster ring showcases a vivid 1.75-carat natural ruby of Burma origin.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Victorian Burmese Ruby and Pearl Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
This is a wonderful Victorian 18ct yellow gold cluster ring. The centre of the cluster is a lovely natural pearl that is surrounded by a cluster of 6 old cut rubies.
Pearl, Ruby, Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger 2.35ct Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring, 18k Yellow Gold
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in New York, NY
Schlumberger ring showcases a 2.35ct cushion-cut Burma ruby, certified by AGL as no-heat, offering rare and vibrant color.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Edwardian Burmese Ruby and Diamond Three Stone Ring
Located in London, GB
This would make a perfect engagement ring and is suitable for every day wear. Condition: Used (Very Good) Weight: 4.5 grams Ring Size: N (54) Ruby: Approx. 1.60 carats Ruby Details:...
Ruby, 18k Gold
Burma Ruby and Diamond Ring 18 Karat Gold Cocktail Bowtie Designer Ring
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Vintage Ring, never used. Unique Burma Natural Ruby Gemstones Unique Invisible setting bowtie design Square Natural Ruby's and center Oval Natural Diamond 18k Yellow Gold 10.0 grams.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Gold
2.45 Carat Unheated Burma Ruby Ring
Located in New Orleans, LA
This magnificent ring showcases a 2.45-carat unheated Burmese ruby of exceptional quality, flanked by two half-moon cut diamonds of F color and SI1 clarity totaling 1.03 carats.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
This 1.05ct Ruby Burma Solitaire Engagement Ring 18K White Gold
Located in London, GB
This 1.05ct Ruby Burma Solitaire Engagement Ring is a stunning piece of fine jewellery made with 18ct Yellow Gold.
Ruby
2.45 Carat Unheated Burma Ruby Ring
Located in New Orleans, LA
This magnificent ring showcases a 2.45-carat unheated Burmese ruby of exceptional quality, flanked by two half-moon cut diamonds of F color and SI1 clarity totaling 1.03 carats.
Ruby, 18k Gold
Vintage Certified No Heat Burma Ruby Diamond Engraved Gold Ring
Located in Napoli, NA
Beautiful Florentine Engraved ring, handcrafted in 18kt white Gold, featuring in the center a natural certified Burma Ruby 1.42 carat, and surrounded by colorless round old mine cut ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cabochon 6.31 Carat Untreated Burma Ruby Ring
Located in New Orleans, LA
A rare Burma cabochon ruby positively captivates amid a halo of diamonds in this extraordinary ring.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Burma Ruby and Diamond Ring in 14 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Wailea, HI
Burma Ruby and Diamond Ring in 14k Yellow Gold A Cushion Cut Burmese Ruby weighing 1.50 carats approximately Twenty Two Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds weighing .50 carats approximately...
Ruby, 14k Gold
Modern 18k White Gold Burmese Ruby & Diamond Cluster 2.00ct Ring
Located in Great Neck, NY
True work of art, A spectacular .52 carat Burmese Ruby, oval brilliant cut of the finest clear Red color, Set among an array of fancy marquise, pear, and round brilliant cuts, all pr...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Certified Burma Ruby No Heat Diamond Filigree Gold Ring
Located in Napoli, NA
Beautiful Florentine Engraved ring, handcrafted in 18k yellow and white Gold, featuring in the center a natural Burma No Heat Ruby 1.06 carat, and surrounded by colorless round brill...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Burmese Ruby 3.34ct and Diamond Gold Ring, Georgian, ca. 1800
Located in Idar-Oberstein, DE
Beautiful Burmese Ruby and Diamond Gold Ring, Georgian, ca. 1800.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold
9.17 ctw Mid-Century Burmese Ruby & Diamond 18K Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Tysons, VA
Type: Cocktail Ring Era / Style: Mid-Century Metal: Yellow Gold Metal Purity: 18K Setting Style: Prong Band Style: Plain Finish: High Polish Gemstone: Natural Ruby Origin: Burma (Mya...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$26,704Sale Price|20% Off
Pigeon Blood Vivid Red Natural Heated Burma Myanmar Certified 2.05ct Ruby Ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Perfect as a statement ring, anniversary gift, or fine jewelry piece for everyday luxury, this ruby and diamond ring is designed for those who appreciate classic beauty with a modern...
Ruby, 14k Gold
GRS Certified 2.99 Oval Cut Burma Ruby & Diamond Halo Ring
Located in Miami, FL
GRS certified 2.99 oval cut Burmese origin unheated ruby and diamond halo ring.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rare Certified Burma Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
A rare and striking certified Burma Ruby & Diamond cluster ring. Created in 18ct white gold with claw settings to the outer diamonds and double talon centre claws to the Ruby.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique Burmese Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a truly beautiful ruby and diamond cluster ring. At the centre of the face we find an oval shaped natural Burmese ruby possessing a vivd red colour tone with no evidence...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Buccellati Burma Ruby Ring. 7.40ct Oval Cut Ruby Diamond 18K Yellow Gold
By Buccellati
Located in New York, NY
Other Details: Primary Stone: Ruby Center Ruby Weight: Approximately 7.40 carats Center Ruby Cut: Oval Cut Center Ruby Type: Natural Center Ruby Origin: Burma Secondary Stones: Dia...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 19th Century 18k Yellow Gold Burma Ruby Five Stone Ring
Located in New York, NY
A superb antique 18k yellow gold ruby five stone ring circa 1880. The rubies are certified by the American Gemological Laboratory as Burma with no heat treatment.
Ruby, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 0.85 Carat Burma No Heat Ruby and Diamond Ring
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
This ring showcases a 0.85-carat GIA-certified heart-cut red ruby from Burma, left untreated to highlight its natural, rich color (certificate number GIA5506603556).
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
26.88 ctw Mid-Century Burmese Ruby & Diamond 18K Yellow Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Centering a 23.61 carat natural Burmese ruby, this striking cocktail ring showcases a richly colored cushion-cut gemstone with impressive scale and presence.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Contemporary 1.25ct Natural Burma Ruby & Diamond 18K Gold Ring
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
Adorn your self and adds a touch of color and glamour on your look. Stunnig ring come in 18k gold with a lustruos Natural Burma Ruby of 1,25 Ct, fine grade , Perfect cut, common heat...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
18K Yellow Gold 4.40ct Diamond and Burma Ruby Ring MF05-021826
By LB Exclusive
Located in Southampton, PA
Cast in 18k yellow gold, this cocktail ring showcases a 4.09 ct vivid red Burmese ruby with certified indications of thermal treatment.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Raja's Empire Myanmar Ruby 2.31 Carat in 2.49 Grams 14K WG ring
Located in Bangkok, TH
This striking ring features a 2.31 carat cushion-cut ruby as its centerstone, displaying a vivid pinkish-red hue with strong brilliance, bezel-set to showcase the stone's full color ...
Ruby, 14k Gold
Vintage 18kt white Gold Ring with 1.09 Cts Diamond & Burma Rubies
Located in Aventura, FL
SPECIFICATIONS: Metal: 18K White Gold Stones: Natural Diamonds & Natural Rubies Ring Size: 8 (sizable) Ring Width: 0.28 inches (7.1 mm) Total weight: 3.5 grams / 2.3 dwt Stamped:...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$35,359Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 3.0 Carat Burma Ruby Ring 18 Karat Yellow Gold, Oval Shape Ruby
Located in Brooklyn, NY
GIA Certified natural Burma 3.0 carat Ruby ring in 18K Yellow Gold, with side two round diamond 0.10 carat.
Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Burma Ruby Diamond Gold Cluster Ring AGL Estate Jewelry
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A classic vintage ruby and diamond cluster ring made of 14k white gold.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 18ct Gold Burma Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, England
A truly lovely and very fine ruby and diamond ring. The natural Burma ruby is surrounded by a cluster of ten diamonds.
18k Gold
$4,085Sale Price|52% Off
Certified 18K White Gold 1.23ct Burma Ruby & 0.88ct Baguette Diamond Ring
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
A refined and collectible ruby ring crafted in 18k white gold, showcasing an IGL‑certified 1.23ct natural ruby of Myanmar (Burma) origin.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
0.51ct Burma Unheated Ruby and Natural Diamond Ring in 18K Gold
Located in Singapore, SG
Features: Main Gemstone (1pc) - Ruby Total Carat Weight (1pc) - 0.51Ct (approx) Natural Diamonds (10pcs) - 0.26Ct Measurement of ruby -3x2.7mm (Approx) Cut - Oval Clarity - Eye...
Ruby, Diamond, 18k Gold
Vintage 18KT Gold Carved Emerald and Burma Ruby Ring
Located in Braintree, GB
Hallmarked. Dimensions Ring size: UK I, US 4.25, EU 47.5 Weight: 9.07 grams Specifications Metal: 18KT yellow and white gold, hallmarked Type: Ring Period: Circa 1970s Style: Cockt...
White Gold
Vintage Burma ruby and diamond ring GIA Certificate
Located in Milano, MI
Vintage ring set in 18ct gold with natural Ruby - Burma (Myanmar) of 1.5ct c.a. and diamonds for circa 0.60ct total.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
2.70ct Ruby burma and diamond engagement ring in 18k white gold.
Located in London, GB
2.70ct Ruby burma and diamond engagement ring in 18k white gold.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
18kt White Gold Ring 4.05ct Burma Ruby, 5.76ct Diamonds, CGL Certified
Located in Antwerp, BE
18kt White Gold Ring 4.05ct Burma Ruby, 5.76ct Diamonds, CGL Certified Elegant big ring full of diamonds and a ruby in the centre.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, 18k Gold
3.02 Carat Burma Ruby Diamond and 18 Karat Gold Dome Ring
Located in New York, NY
This magnificent cocktail ring features a 3.02 carat oval no heat Burma ruby.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Oval Burma Red Ruby and Diamond Ring 18k Yellow Gold
Located in Honolulu, HI
Item Specifications: Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Total Weight: 10.0 Grams Ring Size: 10 Gemstone Specifications: Gemstones: 1 oval red ruby Ruby Measurements: ~6.24 mm x 5.06 mm x...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
$26,400Sale Price|20% Off
Certified 12.51 Carat Oval Burma Ruby and Diamond Three Stone Engagement Ring
By Royaal Stones Ltd
Located in Bangkok, Thailand
*ALL OUR PRICES INCLUDE PREPAID TARRIFS & CUSTOMS DUTIES FOR USA CLIENTS.* A beautiful ring set in 18K White Gold featuring a 12.51 Carat natural, red, heated Burma Ruby and 2 cadil...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold
GIA Certified 0.88 Carat Burma No Heat Red Ruby Ring in 18 Karat White Gold
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
This ring features a 0.88-carat GIA-certified heart-cut red ruby from Burma, left unheated to showcase its natural, intense red color (certificate number GIA3505474904).
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
0.30 Carat Burmese Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a wonderfully crafted ruby and diamond cluster ring. A pear shaped natural Burmese ruby possessing a playful pinky undertone sits at the centre of the piece and is frame...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
AGL Certified Burma Ruby and Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Made in an openwork design with exceptional detail, this ring is perfect for any collection. Ring size: 8 1/2 Metal: 18 Karat yellow gold Stamp: (maker's mark) 18K Gross weight: 8.5...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Natural Unheated Burmese Ruby Diamond Cluster Yellow Gold Modern Engagement Ring
Located in Lisbon, PT
Contemporary Natural Unheated Burmese Ruby and Diamond Cluster Engagement Ring in 19.2K Yellow Gold, Portuguese, circa 2020.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Unheated Burmese Ruby with Diamond Ring set in 18K Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Unheated Burmese Ruby 1.06 carats with Diamond 0.36 carat Ring set in 18K Gold Settings Width: 1.3 cm Length: 0.6 cm Ring Size: 54 Total Weight: 3.75 grams "We first opened doors...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Certified Natural Burmese Ruby Statement Ring Set In 18K White Gold
By Royaal Stones Ltd
Located in Bangkok, Thailand
Features : 18K White Gold : 9.25 Grams Burmese Ruby Pear Shape : 3.91 Carats Diamonds ( Marquise ) 7 Pieces / 1.02 Carats Diamonds ( Oval ) 4 Pieces / 0.56 Carats Diamond ( Ro...
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
14kt Rose Gold Ring with BURMA Rubies and Diamonds with Certificate
Located in Aventura, FL
Experience elegance with this stunning 14kt yellow gold band ring, designed to make a statement. This exquisite piece features nine oval cut Burma rubies, which collectively weigh ap...
Diamond, Ruby, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
18K Yellow gold Mauboussin Burma no Heat Ruby Flower Retro Ring
By Mauboussin
Located in New York, NY
A striking embodiment of retro elegance, this 1950 Mauboussin ring is crafted from 18K yellow gold and adorned with vibrant rubies totaling 3.0 carats. The rich red hue of the rubies...
Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Ruby and Diamond Ring No Heat Burma
Located in Litchfield, CT
Circa 1890s, 14k, American. This stunning ruby and diamond ring features a spectacular .76 carat No Heat Burma Ruby surrounded by 1.0 carats of superb white diamonds (H color, VS cla...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold
Burma (Myanmar) Ruby Cts 8.45 and Diamond Engagement Ring with GRS Certificate
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Fit for a queen, the centerpiece boasts an 8.45 cts heated oval ruby sourced from Burma, Myanmar. It comes with a GRS certificate, proving its origin and authenticity.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
3 Carat Burma Ruby Diamond 14k Yellow Gold Wide Band Cocktail Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite 14k yellow gold cocktail ring showcases approximately 3 carats of vibrant natural Burma rubies, beautifully complemented by sparkling natural diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Deco Certified Unheated Burmese Ruby Diamond Gold Ring
Located in Napoli, NA
Art Deco three stone 18k Gold ring set with a round cut unheated ruby, weighing 1.14 carats and 2 old cut octagonal diamonds with a total weight of approx. 1.20 carats H/I color VS/S...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Burma Unheated Ruby and Natural Diamonds Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Singapore, SG
Features: Main Gemstone (1pcs) - Ruby Total Carat Weight (1pc) - 0.85Ct (approx) Measurement of ruby - 6.42x5.2mm Cut - mixed (Oval) Clarity - SI (Has Natural Inclusion or minor...
Ruby, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
3.60 Carat Burma Ruby Oval Cut and Diamond 18K Gold Men’s Ring
Located in Miami, FL
218K yellow gold men’s statement ring, circa 1990s, featuring a 3.60-carat oval-cut ruby described as Burma origin, bezel set at center and surrounded by a radial ballerina-style hal...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
5.56 Carats Exquisite Natural Burma Ruby 14K Solid Rose Gold Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
5.56 Carats Exquisite Natural Burma Ruby 14K Solid Rose Gold Ring Natural Round Ruby Weight is: Approx. 5.56 Carats Ruby Measures: Approx. 5 x 3mm Ruby Treatment: Heating Ring s...
Ruby, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
Oval Burma Ruby with Heart Diamonds White Gold Ring with Certificate
By Angeletti
Located in Roma, IT
Oval Burma Ruby with Heart Diamonds White Gold Ring with Certificate.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
GRS Certified 5.09 Carat Oval Burma Ruby & Diamond Halo Cluster Ring
Located in Miami, FL
GRS Certified 5.09 carat oval cut Burmese origin ruby and diamond halo ring. Adorned with 2.10 carats of 24 round cut white diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k 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.
This deep red gem is the color of heat and passion — vintage and antique ruby jewelry is perfect for those born in the middle of summer.
Rubies are one of the few gemstones that can give diamonds a run for their money. Just consider the Van Cleef & Arpels “scarf” necklace the Duke of Windsor presented to the Duchess on her 40th birthday, in 1936 — set with diamonds and dripping with rubies, a testament to the deep-red gemstone’s power — or the slippers encrusted with 4,600 rubies that Harry Winston made to commemorate The Wizard of Oz’s golden anniversary. July babies have permission to adorn themselves with this beautiful red stone even when it’s not their birthday.
Rubies are considered precious stones — along with diamonds, sapphires and emeralds — and have a hardness of 9.0 on the Mohs Scale, surpassed only by Moissanite and diamonds. They are composed of corundum, a colorless mineral that is also the basic material of sapphires. In the July birthstone, the red of the gemstone — and the various hues seen in sapphires — are produced by the presence of trace elements. In the case of a ruby, this element is chromium. Rubies range in color from vermilion to a violet red. They are also pleochroic, which means that a stone’s hue can vary depending on the direction of viewing. The most sought-after color is pigeon’s blood: pure red with a hint of blue.
Rubies that are hosted in dolomite marble are the most prized: Because the marble is low in iron, so are the rubies, resulting in a more intense color. Rubies found in basalt, which has a higher iron content, are generally darker and less intense.
When shopping for antique and vintage ruby jewelry, remember that the 4Cs of selecting the perfect diamond — color, clarity, cut and carat — also apply to rubies.
According to the Gemological Institute of America, the color of the July birthstone should be a vibrant to slightly purplish red, and the stone should be clear and inclusion-free. Accordingly, the cut should show off its color and clarity. As for the last criterion, fine rubies more than a carat in weight are rare. Often, large rubies are more expensive than diamonds of comparable weights.
Find a collection of ruby necklaces, ruby rings and other accessories 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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