$7,200Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 2.01 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Embrace luxury and sophistication with this exquisite cocktail-style ring, featuring a mesmerizing IGI Certified 2.01 Carat Burma Ruby in a vivid purplish-red hue, elegantly shaped i...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 4.89 Carat Ruby and Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Behold a captivating pair of 18K white gold stud earrings, each showcasing a stunning oval-cut ruby with a combined weight of 4.89 carats. These are not just any rubies; their intens...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 4.12 Carat Ruby and Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Presenting a pair of truly captivating 18K white gold dangle earrings. The focal point of each earring is a magnificent oval-cut ruby, boasting a substantial total weight of 4.12 car...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 6.10 Carat Ruby and Diamond Pendant in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Indulge in the vibrant elegance of this exquisite pendant, showcasing a magnificent 6.10 carat natural ruby. The classic oval cut beautifully displays the gem's rich and captivating ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 4.33 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Radiant 18K White Gold Earrings with Two Vivid Purple Rubies and Shimmering Diamonds These exquisite earrings feature two oval mixed-cut rubies, each boasting a captivating purplish...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.37 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This striking ring showcases a magnificent marquise mixed cut ruby, a gem that exudes both elegance and a touch of the dramatic. The ruby, weighing 1.37 carats, is a true statement p...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 3.82 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Imagine the captivating allure of this exquisite 18K white gold ring, a true masterpiece of elegance and vibrant color. At its heart lies a breathtaking 3.82 carat oval mixed cut ru...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$17,507
W 0.6 in D 0.32 in L 1.03 in
IGI Certified Pendant with Burma Ruby and Diamonds in 18 karat Yellow Gold
Located in Esch sur Alzette, Esch-sur-Alzette
Chain not included This sophisticated IGI certified pendant features a rare 2.1 carat natural ruby from the historic Mong Hsu mines of Myanmar, formerly Burma.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
IGI Certified 4.08 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Earrings in 18K Rose Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
A truly magnificent find, these IGI Certified earrings showcase a remarkable 4.08 total carat weight of natural Burma rubies.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
IGI Certified 2.08 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
These enchanting 18k white gold earrings capture the essence of romance with the allure of rare Burmese rubies and the brilliance of diamonds. At the heart of each earring lies a cap...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 4.76 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This exquisite ring features a stunning oval-cut Burma ruby, weighing a substantial 4.76 carats. The ruby is renowned for its vibrant red color, a hallmark of Burmese rubies. It's su...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
AGL & IGI Certified 1.75 Carat Diamond Gold Burma Ruby Three Stone Ring
By Diamond Stars Jewelry, Inc.
Located in New York, NY
The Center Ruby is a step cut and certified by AGL. There are 0.50 Carats Total in Diamonds G/H I1 The whole ring is certified by IGI.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
IGI Certified 2.24 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K Rose Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This exquisite ring features a captivating marquise-cut Burmese ruby, weighing 2.24 carats. The ruby's vibrant red color is a hallmark of Burmese rubies, known for their exceptional ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
IGI Certified 2.08 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This exquisite ring features a captivating pear-shaped Burmese ruby, weighing 2.08 carats. The ruby's vibrant red color is a hallmark of Burmese rubies, known for their exceptional q...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.33 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Imagine presenting your loved one with a symbol of your affection as radiant and unique as your love itself. This exquisite ring features a breathtaking heart-shaped ruby, a true tes...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 2.35 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Behold the regal splendor of this IGI Certified ring, a luxurious creation featuring a total estimated weight of 2.91 carats in gemstones, set in rich 18K White Gold.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI certified Natural ruby brilliant cut diamond 14K gold stud round earrings
Located in Delhi, DL
This pair of elegant earring with natural ruby and brilliant cut diamonds in solid 14K gold is a true style statement. These earrings consists of: Gross weight- 3.18 grams Diamond ...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
IGI Certified 1.24 Carat Emerald Cut Natural Ruby & Diamond Double Halo Ring
Located in Houston, TX
This enchanting ring showcases a 1.24ct emerald-cut natural ruby, elegantly framed by a double halo of 74 round diamonds totaling 0.29 carat. Crafted from luxurious 18 karat rose gol...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
IGI Certified 1ct Oval Ruby & Diamond Double Halo Engagement Ring - 18K Gold
By VimleshBadaya
Located in Jaipur, RJ
Primary Stone: Approx. 1.00ct Natural Oval-Cut Red Ruby Accent Stones: 0.75tcw Natural Tapered Baguette & Round-Cut Diamonds (G/VS) Metal: Solid 18K White Gold (Approx. 3 grams...
Ruby, Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
$2,960Sale Price|26% Off
W 0.31 in L 0.98 in
IGI Certified 1.58 Carat Ruby & 0.44 Carat Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Introducing a captivating pair of IGI Certified 1.58 Carat Ruby Dangle Earrings, a truly mesmerizing composition that showcases the beauty of natural rubies and diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
$6,400Sale Price|20% Off
W 0.36 in L 0.63 in
IGI Certified 5.86 Carat Ruby & 0.62 Carat Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Halo set with round brilliant-cut diamonds, the total diamond weight for the piece is 0.62 carats. The earring weighs 5.48 grams. The rubies are highly saturated in color. Accompanie...
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.82 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
A truly exceptional expression of love and rarity, these IGI Certified earrings showcase a magnificent 1.82 carat total weight of natural Burma rubies.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified Rare 14.13 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Introducing a truly extraordinary piece of jewelry, the IGI Certified 14.13 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Halo Ring.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$7,200Sale Price|20% Off
W 0.45 in L 0.45 in
IGI Certified 4.69 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Jackets Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Burmese rubies are sought after for their beautiful red tones. Halo set with round brilliant-cut diamonds, the total diamond weight for the piece is 0.37 carats. The ruby studs can ...
Diamond, Ruby
IGI Certified 1.89 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Pendant in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
A particularly significant feature is the ruby's Origin: Myanmar (Burma), a source renowned for producing some of the world's most prized and historically important rubies.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 11.67 Carat Ruby, Citrine and Black Diamond Statement Ring 8K Gold
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This extraordinary statement ring showcases a dramatic combination of vivid natural rubies, golden citrines, and striking black diamonds totaling 11.67 carats. Designed with bold art...
Citrine, Black Diamond, Ruby, Gold
$5,280Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 3.10 Carat Triple Ruby & Diamond Halo Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary IGI certified 18K white gold ring, featuring a dazzling trio of oval-shaped Burmese rubies and a shimmering diamond halo.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.00 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This elegant ring is a masterclass in modern design and vibrant color, centered around a captivating 1.00-carat natural ruby. Originating from Myanmar (Burma), a region historically ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 2.00 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Pendant in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Discover the allure of this magnificent 18K White Gold Pendant, officially certified by the International Gemological Institute. This pendant, weighing 2.25 grams in total, showcases...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.13 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This exquisite ring is a masterclass in classic luxury and vibrant color, centered around a magnificent 1.13-carat natural ruby. Originating from Burma (Myanmar), a region historical...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.68 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This sophisticated ring is a masterclass in classic luxury and vivid color, centered around a magnificent 1.68-carat natural ruby. Originating from Myanmar (Burma), a region historic...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$14,400Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 8.75 Carat Ruby & 3.14 Carat Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Elevate your jewelry collection with the luxurious allure of this IGI Certified 8.75 Carat ruby ring. This exquisite piece features a deep purplish red ruby, certified by the esteeme...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$11,200Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 2.07 Carat Unheated Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Indulge in the opulent beauty of this exquisite IGI Certified 2.07 Carat Ruby and Diamond Antique Style Ring, a piece that exudes elegance and sophistication in every detail.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$9,200Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 8.88 Carat Unheated Red Ruby & Diamond Pendent in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Collectible unheated ruby pendent. The ruby weighs an impressive 8.88 carat and has a beautiful oval shape along with an deep purlish-red color that makes it so special. It is comple...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$28,000Sale Price|20% Off
W 0.8 in L 2.29 in
IGI Certified 16.74 Carat Ruby & 6.86 Carat Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This extravagantly bold pair of earrings are not for the faint of heart! 1 6.74 carats of deep red pear-shaped and oval-shaped rubies take center stage in these modern design drop e...
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
$4,800Sale Price|20% Off
W 0.36 in L 0.63 in
IGI Certified 2.23 Carat Ruby & 1.30 Carat Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Burmese rubies are sought after for their beautiful red tones. These 18k white gold earrings featuring a 2.23 carat rare heart-shaped ruby is a great example of the Burmese allure - ...
Diamond, Ruby, 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
Behold the magnificence of this IGI certified 25.49ct Ruby & 3ct Natural Diamonds Ring in 18K White Gold, a true embodiment of luxury and sophistication.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$14,400Sale Price|20% Off
L 6.5 in
IGI Certified Alternating 8.50 Ct Ruby & 3.85 Ct Diamond Bracelet in 18K Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Presenting a stunning masterpiece, behold the IGI Certified Alternating 8.50 Ct Ruby & 3.85 Ct Diamond Bracelet in 18K Gold.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$1,840Sale Price|38% Off
IGI Certified 9.74ct Not-treated Ruby and 0.44ct Diamonds 14k White Gold Ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Elevate your collection with this epitome of enduring elegance and opulent beauty, crafted for you by Top Crown Jewelry. This ring is certified by IGI laboratory, report number: 26J...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$47,200Sale Price|20% Off
L 16 in
IGI Certified 26.58 Carat Burma Ruby & 18.85 Carat Diamond Necklace in 18K Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Prepare to make a statement with this breathtaking IGI certified 26.58ct Ruby & 17.85ct Natural Diamonds Necklace in 18K White Gold.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 2.89 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Imagine adorning yourself with the captivating allure of two oval-cut rubies, boasting a total weight of 2.89 carats. These are not just any rubies; they possess that highly sought-a...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$13,900
W 0.36 in L 0.71 in
IGI Certified 4.84 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Introducing a truly captivating pair of 18K white gold earrings. Each earring showcases a striking marquise-cut ruby, totaling an impressive 4.84 carats. These are exceptional rubies...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.36 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Step into a world of distinctive beauty with these 18K white gold earrings. At their heart, two vibrant round-cut rubies, hailing from the esteemed mines of Myanmar, capture the eye ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.20 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Pendant in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Discover the captivating charm of this elegant pendant, showcasing a beautiful 1.20 carat natural ruby from the esteemed mines of Burma (Myanmar). The unique square cushion rose cut ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
AGL and IGI Certified 1.27 Carat Burma Ruby Three-Stone Diamond Gold Ring
By Diamond Stars Jewelry, Inc.
Located in New York, NY
The center stone is 1.27 Carat Heated Burma Ruby. The Ruby is a step cut and certified by AGL.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 1.07 Carat Pigeon Blood Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Unveil the brilliance of this stunning 18K white gold ring, a testament to timeless elegance and vibrant color. At its heart lies a captivating 1.07 carat oval mixed cut ruby, boast...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 0.75ct Natural Oval Ruby & Mixed-Cut Diamond Halo Ring - 18K Gold
By VimleshBadaya
Located in Jaipur, RJ
Primary Stone: Approx. 0.75ct Natural Oval-Cut Red Ruby Accent Stones: 1.38tcw Natural Baguette, Marquise & Round Diamonds (G/VS) Metal: Solid 18K White Gold (Approx. 4.5 grams) S...
Ruby, Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
$1,728Sale Price / item|20% Off
IGI Certified 1ct Oval Red Ruby & Diamond Halo Engagement Ring – 18K White Gold
By VimleshBadaya
Located in Jaipur, RJ
Primary Stone: Approx. 1.00ct Natural Oval-Cut Red Ruby Accent Stones: 0.23tcw Natural Tapered Baguette & Round-Cut Diamonds (G/VS) Metal: Solid 18K White Gold (Approx. 2.3 gra...
Ruby, Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
Gleaming 18k Yellow Gold Ruby and Diamond Pave Ring w/1.09 ct - IGI Certified
Located in רמת גן, IL
Gleaming 18k Yellow Gold Ruby and Diamond Pave Ring w/1.09 ct - IGI Certified The centerpiece of this pave ring is a captivating 0.71 carat oval cut ruby.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$22,400Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 8.31 Carat No Heat Burmese Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Originating from the legendary ruby mines of Burma (now Myanmar), this exceptional gemstone has been certified by the IGI as having no indication of heat treatment, preserving its na...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$13,200Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 6.53 Carat Ruby & 3.71 Carat Oval Diamond Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Indulge in the utmost elegance with this breathtaking IGI Certified 6.53 Carat ruby ring, a true testament to remarkable craftsmanship and exceptional gemstones.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$5,800
W 0.32 in L 0.83 in
IGI Certified 1.38 Carat Ruby and 1.28 Carat Diamond Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Adorn yourself with the breathtaking allure of these captivating 18K white gold earrings, a masterpiece of vibrant color and dazzling brilliance. Each earring features a magnificent ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 70.71 Carat Natural Citrine Snake Statement Necklace 8K Gold
Located in Boca Raton, FL
IGI Certified 70.71 Carat Natural Citrine Snake Statement Necklace 8K Gold This exclusive bespoke creation was specially handcrafted as a one-of-a-kind piece, and no identical desig...
Citrine, Ruby, Gold
$7,200Sale Price|20% Off
W 1.38 in L 1.97 in
IGI Certified 24.10 Carat Blue Topaz & Diamond Pendant in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Elevate your jewelry collection with this exquisite Georgian style pendant featuring a luxurious IGI Certified 24.10 Carat natural Topaz in an intense greenish-blue hue that is truly...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$9,200Sale Price|20% Off
L 6.5 in
IGI Certified Alternating 3.76 Ct Emerald & 2.37 Ct Diamond Bracelet in 18K Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Introducing the exquisite 18K white gold tennis bracelet, adorned with alternating 3.76 Ct oval cut emeralds and 2.37 Ct round rose cut white diamonds. This stunning piece is not onl...
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.