$22,675 / item
Heirloom Diamond 18K White Gold Eternity Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Heirloom Diamond 18K White Gold Eternity Ring is a radiant fusion of classic elegance and contemporary design.
18k Gold, White Gold
16.45ct Royal Blue Ceylon Sapphire & Diamond Halo Heirloom Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Expertly crafted to heirloom standards, this investment-grade treasure combines a rare, velvety azure saturation with a regal, timeless setting that commands attention as a true piec...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Vintage Solitaire Sapphire Diamond 18K Solid Gold Heirloom Ring
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Its timeless design makes it perfect as an engagement ring, anniversary gift, or heirloom piece. Details: • Era: Vintage (mid-20th century) • Metal: 18K Solid Gold (hallmarked/tes...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold
$1,525 / item
Heirloom – Diamond Tie Wedding Band
Located in Fatih, 34
Heirloom – Diamond Tie Wedding Band This item is made by order, please let us now your desired gold colored and ring size Product Details : • Made to Order • Gold Kt: 14kt • Av...
Diamond, 14k Gold
An Heirloom Ignited: The Pigeon Blood Ruby & Diamond Solitaire Ring
By Malpani Jewels
Located in Hung Hom, HK
Be the first to claim this breathtaking Vivid Red Ruby and Diamond Solitaire Ring, a piece where classic elegance meets passionate, untamed color.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Vintage 1.65CT Diamond Trilogy Ring 18K Solid Gold Heirloom
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Vintage 1.65CT Diamond Trilogy Ring 18K Solid Gold Heirloom Vintage Diamond Trilogy Ring in 18K White Gold – 1.65ct A classic English trilogy ring, rich with meaning and antique cha...
Diamond, Gold
Vintage Rubellite Tourmaline Diamond Ring in High Carat Gold Heirloom Jewelry
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Vintage Rubellite Tourmaline Diamond Ring in High Carat Gold Heirloom Jewelry METAL 18K gold GEMSTONE Rubellite Tourmaline, diamonds WEIGHT 4.48 grams SIZE 7.0 US free resizi...
Diamond, Tourmaline, Gold
1900's Victorian Dutch Antique Rosecut Diamond Entourage Ring Heirloom Jewelry
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
1900's Victorian Dutch Antique Rosecut Diamond Entourage Ring Heirloom Jewelry This original 19th-century Dutch ring features a beautiful hand-cut rose-cut diamonds, set in the clas...
Diamond, 14k Gold
Michael Zobel Opalized Octopus Diamond Gold Platinum Statement Heirloom Ring
Located in Montreal, QC
An 18/22 karat yellow gold and Platinum ring set with an Opalized Octopus Gemstone, 14 brilliant round full cut diamonds .94 total carat weight and one round and one teardrop Beryl.
Beryl, Diamond, 18k Gold, 22k Gold, Platinum
Vintage Rubellite Tourmaline Diamond Ring in High Carat Gold Heirloom Jewelry
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Vintage Rubellite Tourmaline Diamond Ring in High Carat Gold Heirloom Jewelry METAL 18K gold GEMSTONE Rubellite Tourmaline, diamonds WEIGHT 4.48 grams SIZE 7.0 US free resizi...
Diamond, Tourmaline, Gold
18k Gold diamond tank ring - family heirloom - Art Deco, Antique engagement ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
For sale is this lovely small Rose Cut diamond ring. This Tank ring is made in 18 karat Yellow gold and marked with a 18K mark. This type of ring is called a Tank ring thanks to to t...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1900's Victorian Dutch Antique Rosecut Diamond Entourage Ring Heirloom Jewelry
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
1900's Victorian Dutch Antique Rosecut Diamond Entourage Ring Heirloom Jewelry This original 19th-century Dutch ring features a beautiful hand-cut rose-cut diamonds, set in the clas...
Diamond, 14k Gold
3.21ct Heirloom Sapphire with Diamond Halo 14K Gold Engagement Ring R6779
Located in Osprey, FL
♥ This is a stunning ring set with an oval blue sapphire in the center, surrounded by white lab diamond. ♥ The setting is intentionally designed to sit higher on the finger to allow ...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold
Heirloom 3.7cts Statement Madagascar Ruby Ring: Natural Diamonds, 14K Solid Gold
Located in Columbus, OH
Elegant 14k gold ring featuring a stunning 3.68-carat oval Madagascar ruby (10x8mm), enhanced with fissure filling for added brilliance. The vibrant ruby, known for its exceptional h...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Heirloom Jewelry - 7.5cts Zambian Emerald 18K Solid Gold Ring: Natural Diamonds
Located in Columbus, OH
This luxurious ring features a striking 7.5ct emerald-cut Zambian Emerald, measuring 14.5 x 12mm. Set in 14k gold (6.87g), the vivid green center stone is beautifully accented by 36 ...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Heirloom Engagement Ring. Antique Ruby and Diamond 6 Stone 18K Yellow Gold Ring
Located in New York, NY
Ring Size: 9 US, Resizable Color: J Color Overall Clarity: SI1-SI2 Overall Metal: Gold, Yellow Gold Stone: Diamond, Ruby Stone Cut: Old European Cut, Round Cut Style: Victorian Th...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, Yellow Gold
Michael Zobel 7.53 Carat Emerald and Diamond Gold Statement Heirloom Ring
Located in Montreal, QC
We are privileged and delighted to offer you this Beautiful Emerald and Diamond Ring from the private collection of Michael Zobel… Combining the wearable with the theatrical! An 18/2...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, 22k Gold
Art Deco 1920's Diana Sapphire Diamond in 18K Solid Gold Heirloom Ring
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Art Deco 1920's Diana Sapphire Diamond in 18K Solid Gold Heirloom Ring A symbol of love and unity, this exquisite Art Deco “Toi et Moi” ring meaning “You and Me” in French, dates to...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold
Heirloom Jewelry - 3.12cts Burma Ruby Ring w Natural Diamonds in 14K Solid Gold
Located in Columbus, OH
A masterpiece of fine craftsmanship, this 3.12 carat Burma ruby heirloom ring showcases a vibrant 10x8mm oval ruby surrounded by a scintillating halo of earth-mined diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$3,178Sale Price|20% Off
Art Deco 1920's Sapphire 0.70ct Diamond Toi Moi in 14K Solid Gold Heirloom Ring
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Art Deco 1920's Sapphire 0.70ct Diamond Toi Moi in 14K Solid Gold Heirloom Ring A symbol of love and unity, this exquisite Art Deco “Toi et Moi” ring meaning “You and Me” in French,...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold
Art Deco 1920's Sapphire 0.70ct Diamond Toi Moi in 14K Solid Gold Heirloom Ring
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
Art Deco 1920's Sapphire 0.70ct Diamond Toi Moi in 14K Solid Gold Heirloom Ring A symbol of love and unity, this exquisite Art Deco “Toi et Moi” ring meaning “You and Me” in French,...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold
Heirloom 4.62tcw 3 Stone Colombian Emerald & Pear Diamond Gypsy 18K Bezel Ring
Located in Jupiter, FL
Featured here is a ONE OF A KIND breath-taking, AAA fine quality rare emerald and diamond three-stone ring. The center stone is a stunning 3.89-carat, Colombian emerald-emerald cut. ...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1840's Georgian Dutch Antique Rosecut Half Hoop Ring Heirloom Jewelry
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
A delicate and timeless jewel from the Georgian era, this half-hoop ring is set with softly shimmering rose-cut diamonds, each catching the light with a gentle, candlelit glow. The h...
Diamond, 14k Gold
1700's Georgian Dutch Antique Rosecut Half Hoop Ring Heirloom Jewelry
Located in EINDHOVEN, NB
A delicate and timeless jewel from the Georgian era, this half-hoop ring is set with softly shimmering rose-cut diamonds, each catching the light with a gentle, candlelit glow. The h...
Diamond, 14k Gold
Exceptional GIA Certified Emerald in a Bespoke Heirloom Setting
Located in Columbus, OH
Specifications: Item Type: Ring Center Stone: Emerald Treatment: Oiled Weight: 1.76ct Head Size: 9x7mm Shape: Oval Hardness: 7.5-8 Country of Origin: Colombia GIA Certificate: 52343...
Emerald, Diamond, Yellow Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Ruby and Diamond Ring. GIA 1.20ct Mozambique Ruby Diamond Halo Ring Platinum
Located in New York, NY
Whether as a striking addition to a fine jewelry collection or a treasured heirloom, this ruby and diamond ring is a magnificent testament to expert artistry and timeless elegance.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
1925 Art Deco Platinum Diamond Ring
Located in Lexington, KY
This beautiful Art Deco diamond ring from 1925 is made in platinum. The ring features two stunning, round cut, diamonds on each shoulder.
Diamond, Platinum
$19,760Sale Price|20% Off
Zambian Emerald Ring. GIA 4.30ct Emerald Diamond Halo Engagement Ring Platinum
Located in New York, NY
Whether worn as a statement piece or cherished as an heirloom, this platinum emerald and diamond ring is a striking addition to any collection, embodying elegance and refinement in e...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
$7,233Sale Price / item|20% Off
2.65 Carat Marquise Natural Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold Luxury Floral Ring
Located in Diera, AE
Elegant enough for milestone celebrations and timeless enough for heirloom value, this natural diamond ring embodies refined glamour, modern femininity, and enduring luxury craftsman...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique Edwardian 0.90 Carat Diamond and Platinum Filigree Ring
Located in Montgomery, AL
This platinum solitaire style has a timeless silhouette and is of gorgeous heirloom quality. This ring is currently a size 7 & 3/4.
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
$7,840Sale Price|20% Off
Mozambique Ruby Engagement Ring. GIA 1.20ct Ruby 0.40ct Diamond Halo Platinum
Located in New York, NY
Whether as a striking addition to a fine jewelry collection or a treasured heirloom, this ruby and diamond ring is a magnificent testament to expert artistry and timeless elegance.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
0.88 Old Mine Cut Diamond and Platinum Solitaire Style Ring
Located in Montgomery, AL
This is a timeless solitaire style featuring a gorgeous antique diamond, a wonderful heirloom piece indeed. This ring is currently a size 5 & 1/2.
White Diamond, Platinum
$19,760Sale Price|20% Off
4 Carat F1 Zambian Emerald Ring. GIA Emerald Diamond Halo Engagement Platinum
Located in New York, NY
Whether worn as a statement piece or cherished as an heirloom, this platinum emerald and diamond ring is a striking addition to any collection, embodying elegance and refinement in e...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
18K White Gold, Cocktail Flower Ring, Rose Cut, White 2.45 Ct Diamond, Laurenti
By Laurenti
Located in New York, NY
18K White Gold, Cocktail Flower Ring, Rose Cut, White 2.45 Ct Diamond, Laurenti Natural Diamonds Rose Cut and Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds Total Diamond Weight: 2.45 Carats Color: F ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Round Diamond Cluster Filigree Cocktail Ring in 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
The lustrous white gold setting serves as the perfect backdrop, enhancing the beauty and brilliance of the diamonds. Whether worn as a statement piece or as a cherished heirloom, thi...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Antique Art Deco 0.65 Carat Diamond Solitaire Style Filigree Ring
Located in Montgomery, AL
This stunning antique piece was skillfully handcrafted sometime during the Art Deco design period (1920-1940). The platinum setting is absolutely exemplary of it’s design period; fea...
White Diamond, Platinum
Vintage Old European Cut Diamond Pear Shaped Cluster Ring 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Perfect for special occasions or as an heirloom piece, this vintage diamond cluster ring embodies the beauty and craftsmanship of a treasured past.
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$31,200Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified Rare 25.49 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Whether worn for special occasions or kept as a cherished heirloom, this Ruby and Diamond Ring is a symbol of timeless beauty, luxury, and sophistication that will captivate all who ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
2.06tcw Toi Et Moi AAA Top Quality Colombian Emerald & Diamond 2 Stone Ring 18K
Located in Jupiter, FL
This is a stunning solid 18K yellow gold, AAA heirloom Colombian emerald, and diamond statement ring or right-hand ring.
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Baguette Cut Blue Sapphire & Round Diamond Multi-Row Band Ring in 18 Karat Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Whether worn as a bold fashion statement, an anniversary band, or a treasured heirloom, this sapphire and diamond ring is a remarkable addition to any fine jewelry collection.
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2.35tcw AAA+ Three Stone Baguette Vivid Emerald & Trillion Cut Diamond Ring 18K
Located in Jupiter, FL
Featured here is a one-of-a-kind, breathtaking, FINE quality heirloom emerald and diamond three-stone ring in solid 18K.
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
$2,000,000Sale Price|20% Off
Extraordinary Legacy in Diamond Form Harry Winston 28.13ct Masterpiece
By Harry Winston
Located in Chicago, IL
Whether as the crown jewel of a private collection or a once-in-a-lifetime heirloom, this 28.13-carat diamond ring is a work of art destined to be treasured for generations.
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
1pc. Sparkling 1.5 Carat Square Modified Brilliant Natural Diamond
Located in רמת גן, IL
It is perfect for any occasion, from a special engagement to a timeless heirloom. round brilliant cut diamond 1.5 carat diamond G color diamond VS1 clarity diamond Very good polish ...
Diamond
Unavailable|$26,950 / item
5 Carat Emerald Statement Heirloom-Worthy Glow Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 5 carats, emerald, statement ring, diamond ring. Designed to feel like a personal signature: refined, wearable, and unmistakably high-end.
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Unavailable|$2,145,000 / item
15.05 Carat Pear Statement Unparalleled Brilliance Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 15.05 carats, pear, statement ring, diamond ring. A connoisseur-led design where the face-up stays calm, crisp, and intentionally luxurious. Colour family: Brilliant Wh...
White Diamond, 18k Gold
Unavailable|$147,950 / item
6 Carat Emerald-cut Statement Heirloom-Worthy Glow Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 6 carats, emerald, statement ring, diamond ring. A serious diamond ring with disciplined selection—meant to read clean at normal viewing distance.
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Unavailable|$26,950 / item
2 Carat Cushion Statement Brilliant Everyday Royalty Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 2 carats, cushion, statement ring, diamond ring. A connoisseur-led design where the face-up stays calm, crisp, and intentionally luxurious.
White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Unavailable|$15,950 / item
1.5 Carat Oval Statement Brilliant Pure Sophistication Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
The combination of approximately 1.5 carats of Brilliant White diamonds and a disciplined High Jewelry Statement Ring profile makes it easy to justify a place alongside important wat...
White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Unavailable|$32,450 / item
2.8 Carat Oval Statement A Classic Statement Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 2.8 carats, oval, statement ring, diamond ring. A collector-facing piece where proportion and light return are treated as non-negotiable.
White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Unavailable|$11,000 / item
1.5 Carat Oval Statement Brilliant White Sophistication Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 1.5 carats, oval, statement ring, diamond ring. A connoisseur-led design where the face-up stays calm, crisp, and intentionally luxurious.
White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Unavailable|$148,500 / item
4.52 Carat Asscher Statement Brilliant Modern Nobility Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 4.52 carats, asscher, statement ring, diamond ring. Designed to feel like a personal signature: refined, wearable, and unmistakably high-end. Colour family: Brilliant W...
White Diamond, 18k Gold
Unavailable|$275,000 / item
7.37 Carat Pear Statement Brilliant White Grandeur Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 7.37 carats, pear, statement ring, diamond ring. A modern classic that balances presence with polish, engineered for long-term wear. Colour family: Brilliant White. Met...
White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Unavailable|$15,950 / item
1.5 Carat Marquise Statement Brilliant Elegant Sparkle Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 1.5 carats, marquise, statement ring, diamond ring. Created for those who prefer quiet power—brilliance without chaos. Colour family: Brilliant White. Metal: 14K White ...
White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Unavailable|$11,610 / item
1 Carat Cushion Statement Champagne Pure Sophistication Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 1 carats, cushion, statement ring, diamond ring. Built for clients who judge a ring in motion, not only in perfect studio light.
Brown Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Unavailable|$104,500 / item
5.05 Carat Emerald-cut Statement SI Radiant Elegance Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 5.05 carats, emerald, statement ring, diamond ring. A serious diamond ring with disciplined selection—meant to read clean at normal viewing distance.
Diamond, 18k Gold
Unavailable|$26,950 / item
2.19 Carat Emerald Statement 18K Gold Quiet Power Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 2.19 carats, emerald, statement ring, diamond ring. Designed to feel like a personal signature: refined, wearable, and unmistakably high-end. Colour family: Emerald Gre...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Unavailable|$17,600 / item
7 Carat Emerald Band 18K Gold Radiant Elegance Heirloom Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 7 carats, emerald, band, diamond band. A collector-facing piece where proportion and light return are treated as non-negotiable. Colour family: Emerald Green. Chosen an...
Diamond, 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.”
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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.