18 carat yellow gold diamond and sapphire engagement ring, Napoleon III period
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Ring “toi Et Moi ”diamond Sapphires 18 carat yellow gold, Napoleon III period 18 carat yellow gold engagement ring, Late 19th century set with an old-cut diamond weighing just over...
Diamond, Sapphire, Yellow Gold
Baroque Diamond And Pearl Ring, 18 Carat Gold, Rose-cut Diamonds, Late 19th Cent
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Ring in 18-carat yellow gold , set with baroque pearls and rose-cut diamonds, in the spirit of “toi et moi”, late 19th century Napoleon III total weight: 4.05 grams. size: 58 free si...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold
Green Sapphire and Diamond Ring
Located in Woodland Hills, CA
They also symbolize wisdom, integrity and renewal. This toi et moi piece would make a unique and special engagement or anniversary ring.
14k Gold
Heart-Shaped Fancy Vivid Yellow and White Diamond Ring
Located in New Orleans, LA
A timeless symbol of love and unity, this elegant toi et moi ring—French for "you and me"—pairs two perfectly matched heart shaped diamonds, each weighing 1.80 carats.
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Two-Stone Pear Cut Ruby and Colombian Emerald Engagement Ring 14K Yellow Gold
By Emeralds Maravellous
Located in Brunswick, ME
"Toi et Moi" (You and Me) two-stone engagement ring, masterfully crafted in rich 14K yellow gold.
Emerald, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,992Sale Price|20% Off
Art Deco Style Green Chrysoprase & Diamond Pavé Ring in 18k Yellow Gold & Silver
By Artisan NYC
Located in New York, NY
This vibrant Toi et Moi-inspired cocktail ring features a double-stone design that pairs the electric hue of natural chrysoprase with the classic brilliance of diamonds.
Diamond, Yellow Gold, Silver
Georgios Collections 18 Karat White Gold Pear Sapphire Double Halo Diamond Ring
By Georgios Collections Inc
Located in Astoria, NY
Inspired by the timeless Toi et Moi design, the ring features two beautifully contrasting pear-shaped sapphires, one in a vivid blue tone and the other in a striking red hue.
Sapphire, White Diamond, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Georgios Collections 18 Karat White Gold Pear Red and Blue Sapphire Ring
By Georgios Collections Inc
Located in Astoria, NY
Inspired by the timeless Toi et Moi design, the ring features two beautifully contrasting pear-shaped sapphires, one in a vivid blue tone and the other in a striking red hue.
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
18ct Gold Ring Set With Flowers In Coral And Brilliants
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Superb 18ct gold ring in the spirit of “toi et moi”, set with 2 coral pieces carved in the shape of a flower.
Coral, Gold
Yellow Sapphire Diamond and Golden South Sea Pearl Ring
Located in Miami Beach, FL
A fabulous twin ring combines a vibrant yellow sapphire and a golden South Sea pearl in a striking design that beautifully emulates a sunset on your finger. This "toi et moi" (you a...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Natural Garnet Ring Size 6.5 14k Yellow Gold 9.16 TCW Certified
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This Garnet ring has been Certified, Inspected, and Appraised by Gemological Appraisal Laboratory Gemological Appraisal Laboratory of America is a proud member of: - GAL Alumni Asso...
Garnet, Yellow Gold
Natural Aquamarine Ring Size 6.5 14k Gold 3.77 TCW Certified
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This Aquamarine ring has been Certified, Inspected, and Appraised by Gemological Appraisal Laboratory Gemological Appraisal Laboratory of America is a proud member of: - GIA Alumni ...
Aquamarine, 14k Gold
4.27 Carat Natural Emerald Baguette Diamond Bypass Ring, 14k Yellow Gold
Located in New Delhi, DL
Round natural diamonds frame the two stones and continue along the curved shoulders. The open toi et moi composition creates a sculptural profile in yellow gold
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yello...
Estate 26 Carat Lavender & Green Amethyst 2 Stone Statement Ring
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
Lavender amethyst and mint green prasiolite join forces in this east-west toi et moi ring. Set in 14-karat yellow gold, the pair of emerald step-cut gems lock together, forming a wal...
Amethyst, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Platinum 1.74ct Diamond Ring MF31-1017245
By LB Exclusive
Located in Southampton, PA
This simple, stylish ring offers a stunning twist on tradition. The Toi Et Moi design comes complete with twin Diamond center stones, meant to symbolize an endless connection between...
Diamond, Platinum
Stacking Band Solid 14k Rose Gold Jewelry Ring Genuine H/Si White Diamond Ring
Located in Jaipur, IN
This is a rose gold "Toi et Moi" style bypass cluster ring, serving as a highly fashionable cocktail ring or a modern, artistic engagement piece.
Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
Unisex 0.50 Karat Yellow Diamonds 18 Karat White Gold Design Ring
By Rossella Ugolini
Located in Rome, IT
Rossella Ugolini Design Collection, Unisex 0.50 Karat Yellow Diamonds finely handcrafted in 18 karats white gold by expert artisans. Toi et Moi ring with a twist given by the modern...
Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
14K Gold Two Stone Emerald Diamond Band 0.95 Ct Zambian Emerald Diamond Band
Located in Jaipur, IN
Crafted in solid 14K yellow gold, the sleek band offers a clean and sophisticated profile, making it ideal for everyday wear while maintaining the luxury expected of fine jewelry. T...
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century Diamonds 18 Karat Yellow Gold You and Me Ring
Located in Poitiers, FR
An antique ring known as “Toi et Moi,” it features scrollwork on the front, cornucopia motifs in chiseled white gold, and two floral motifs, each set with a small rose-cut diamond.
White Diamond, Diamond, White Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
0.48 Ct Natural Pear Diamond Two Stone Unique Ring 18K White Gold HRD Certified
By Jewel Palate
Located in Deira, AE
Two pear-shape diamonds of noticeably different sizes swirl together at the front of this bypass ring, the larger 0.42 carat stone paired with a 0.06 carat companion in a duo that re...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA Certified 3 Carats F/VS1 Twin Heart Diamonds Cross Ring in 18K White Gold
By Nikabell fine Jewels
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
. --- Total Diamond Weight: 3.00 carats Diamonds: 1.50 carats x 2 pieces (Heart Shape) Color: F Clarity: VS1 Certification: GIA Design: Twin Heart / Toi Et Moi Style Ring Metal: 18K ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Sunita Nahata Emerald 0.83ct. Fancy Ring in 18KWG with White Diamond.
By Sunita Nahata
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Set in 18K white gold, this elegant Toi et Moi ring pairs a vivid heart-shaped emerald with a sparkling pear-shaped diamond. a striking symbol of love and connection.
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
14K Pink Gold Round Cut Diamond Double Row Heart Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Its airy, layered silhouette offers a modern twist on the classic "Toi et Moi" (You and Me) style, making it a perfect symbolic gift for a loved one or a whimsical addition to a cont...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
Natural Sapphire Tourmaline Diamond Ring Size 6.5 14k Gold 4.96 TCW Certified
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This Sapphire ring has been Certified, Inspected, and Appraised by Gemological Appraisal Laboratory Gemological Appraisal Laboratory of America is a proud member of: - GIA Alumni As...
Diamond, Sapphire, Tourmaline, 14k Gold
Ever Us Two Stone Diamond Bypass Ring
By Ever Us
Located in Coral Gables, FL
Ever Us 14 karat white gold toi et moi ring with bypass design featuring 2 round brilliant cut diamonds totaling 1.20 carats accented by 20 round brilliant cut diamonds, all of H col...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Natural Emerald Diamond Ring Size 6.5 14k Gold 4.71 TCW Certified
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Stones: Natural Finely Quality Emerald, Diamond Species & Variety: Natural Beryl/Emerald Stone Cut: Oval & Emerald Mixed Cut Stone Color: Green Transparency: Transparent Satu...
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold
3.42CTW. GIA Certified Pear Shape Fancy Intense Yellow & White Diamond Ring
Located in San Francisco, CA
This GIA certified Toi et Moi ring features with a 1.52 pear shape Fancy Intense Yellow diamond SI2 in clarity and 1.21 pear shape white diamond, F in color and VS2 in clarity each s...
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Citrine and Amethyst Two Stone Vintage Style Filigree Ring in 9K Yellow Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Designed as a citrine amethyst toi et moi ring, this piece serves as a timeless emblem of harmony, perfect for marking a meaningful milestone or adding heirloom luxury to your daily ...
Citrine, Amethyst, 9k Gold, Gold, Yellow Gold
FRENCH Ring In 18K Yellow Gold 1.80 Ct Colombian Emerald & 2.35 Ct Diamond
Located in Miami, FL
This important estate Toi et Moi bypass ring features a natural 1.80-carat Colombian emerald paired with a magnificent 2.35-carat antique European-cut diamond.
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Round Cut Diamond Double Row Heart Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Its airy, layered silhouette offers a modern twist on the classic "Toi et Moi" (You and Me) style, making it a perfect symbolic gift for a loved one or a whimsical addition to a cont...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1.22 Carat SI Clarity HI Color Pear Cut Open Diamond Ring 18K White Gold
Located in Deira, AE
Inspired by the graceful Toi et Moi style, the asymmetrical composition creates a refined balance of brilliance and contemporary sophistication.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
GRS Certified 1.19 Carats Pigeon Blood No Heat Burma Ruby and Oval Twin Ring
By Malpani Jewels
Located in Hung Hom, HK
An irreplaceable acquisition for the astute jewelry collector. This exquisite Toi et Moi (Twin) ring unites the absolute pinnacle of the gemstone world: a GRS-certified, completely u...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
1920s Platinum Art Deco 1 Carat Diamond Antique Ring Handmade American Size 5.75
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Ring was well taking care of and it its original factory polish.This beautiful, Toi et Moi, Platinum diamond ring was purchased in our store here in Santa Monica, California.
Platinum
$30,200Sale Price|20% Off
Alexander Beverly Hills All GIA 4.02ct Floating Emerald Cut Diamonds Ring 18k
By Alexander Beverly Hills
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
Modern multi natural emerald cut diamond open shank toi et moi ring, all stones with GIA report. High jewelry by Alexander Beverly Hills. 4 emerald cut diamonds, 4.02 carats total.
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
3.50ct. Fancy Vivid Orangy Yellow & white Diamond Engagement Ring GIA Report
Located in New York, NY
Discover the elegance of our exquisite Toi et Moi ring, featuring a 1.05-carat pear-shaped fancy vivid orangy yellow diamond, GIA certified with SI1 clarity, paired with a 2.01-carat...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
French 20th Century Diamonds 18 Karat Yellow White Gold You and Me Ring
Located in Poitiers, FR
An antique ring known as “Toi et Moi,” it features white gold leaf and flower motifs set on the front, with each flower set with a rose-cut diamond.
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Peerless 1.45ct Greyish Blue Spinel, 0.27ct Diamond & 0.10ct Pink Sapphire Ring
Located in רמת גן, IL
This peerless 18K white gold bypass ring represents the height of contemporary luxury, featuring an avant-garde open-cuff architecture that redefines the classic Toi et Moi design. T...
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, Spinel, 18k Gold, White Gold
Rossella Ugolini 18K Yellow Gold 1 Carats Ruby 1 Carat White Diamonds Love Ring
By Rossella Ugolini
Located in Rome, IT
The Toi et Moi style, which translates to "You and Me," has been a cherished design for centuries, often chosen to represent the deep connection between lovers.
Diamond, Ruby, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Gold, Yellow Gold
5 Carat G Color Pear Diamond & 2.7 carat GRS Certified Emerald Twin Ring Unique
By Malpani Jewels
Located in Hung Hom, HK
An absolute showstopper for the high-end collector. This avant-garde Toi et Moi (Twin) ring beautifully pairs two investment-grade masterpieces into one stunning architectural design...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Heart Shaped White Diamond and Platinum Engagement Ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A cute combination of two Heart Shaped White Diamonds weighing 0.22 carat, showcasing a unique "toi et moi" concept. It is simple enough for everyday wear, while also proving to be a...
White Diamond, Platinum
Yellow & White Pave Diamond You and Me Ring
Located in New York, NY
Yellow & White Pave Diamond You and Me Ring Also Known as Toi et Moi Ring 58 yellow round cut diamonds approximately 2.76 cts. 58 white round cut diamonds approximately 2.76 ct...
Diamond
Two Heart Engagement Ring Sapphires 18K White Gold
By Emeralds Maravellous
Located in Brunswick, ME
Toi et Moi (You and Me) engagement ring features a pair of romantic, heart-shaped sapphires weighing a combined 1.10 carats, beautifully set in premium 18k white gold.
Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, White Gold, 18k Gold
1920s Platinum Art Deco 1 Carat Diamond Antique Ring Handmade American Size 5.75
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Ring was well taking care of and it its original factory polish.This beautiful, Toi et Moi, Platinum diamond ring was purchased in our store here in Santa Monica, California.
Diamond, Platinum
14K White Gold Round Cut Diamond Double Row Heart Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Its airy, layered silhouette offers a modern twist on the classic "Toi et Moi" (You and Me) style, making it a perfect symbolic gift for a loved one or a whimsical addition to a cont...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Art Deco 0.35ct Diamond and Pearl Two Stone Twist Ring, c.1930s
Located in London, GB
Dating back to the Late Deco period, this beautiful 'toi et moi' two stone twist features a 0.35 carat diamond, claw set into platinum along side an ethereal pearl.
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Platinum, White Gold
Hugging Eternity Ring, White Gold
By SONYA K.
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This ring was designed to work with our Stackable Rings and Toi et Moi Rings and will be the perfect addition of sparkle to your look.
18k Gold, White Gold
Art Deco 1920s 18K Yellow Gold & Platinum 0.44ctw 2 Stone Old Cut Diamond Ring
Located in Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
The pair of diamonds create a “toi et moi” (you and me) ring, a design of French origin, representing the union of 2 people, and popular as engagement rings in the early 1900s.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
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
Heart Shaped Diamond and Platinum Engagement Ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A cute combination of two Heart Shaped White Diamonds weighing 0.22 carat, showcasing a unique "toi et moi" concept. It is simple enough for everyday wear, while also proving to be a...
Diamond, Platinum
Antique Art Deco 1.29 Carat Diamond and 18k White Gold Ring Circa 1925
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
The two principal diamonds create a toi et moi design, beautifully representing the union of two souls, while the baguette-cut diamond shoulders introduce the clean lines and archite...
Diamond, White Gold, Platinum
Sophia D, GIA Certified 1.89 Carat Yellow Diamond and 1.71 Carat Emerald Ring
By Sophia D
Located in New York, NY
Toi et Moi Ring GIA Certified 1.89 Carat Yellow Diamond GIA Certified 1.71 Carat Emerald 0.31 Carat surrounding diamonds 0.25 Carat Surrounding emeralds Set in platinum Sophia D b...
Yellow Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
$799Sale Price / item|26% Off
Double Moissanite Unique 14k gold Ring
Located in Istanbul, TR
Double Moissanite Unique 14k gold Ring. Toi et Moi Moissanite Ring. Pear Shaped Moissanite Open Ring with Curved Pave Shank.
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Diamond Twin Bypass Crossover Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Montreal, QC
Simply Beautiful! Vintage 'Toi et Moi' Crossover Bypass Diamond Gold Ring.
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K White Gold Pear Cut Amethyst and Marquise Diamond Open Cuff Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
This chic open cuff ring presents a modern twist on the classic "Toi et Moi" style, featuring two contrasting gemstones that appear to float on the finger.
Amethyst, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
14K Yellow Gold Pear Cut Amethyst and Marquise Diamond Open Cuff Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
This chic open cuff ring presents a modern twist on the classic "Toi et Moi" style, featuring two contrasting gemstones that appear to float on the finger.
Amethyst, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
0.54 Ct Natural Oval & Pear Diamond Open Cluster Ring in 18K White Gold
By Spectrum Jewels
Located in Deira, Dubai
"This ring pairs two design languages in a single open band: a clean oval solitaire anchors one end while a trio of pear diamonds cascades from the other, meeting in the middle witho...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
French 20th Century Sapphire Diamonds 18 Karat Yellow Gold You and Me Ring
Located in Poitiers, FR
Ring in 18 karat yellow gold, eagle head hallmark and platinum. Called the “Toi et Moi” ring because it features two main stones, this vintage ring has a slender band adorned on top ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow ...
Genuine H/Si White Diamond Solid 14k Yellow Gold Jewelry Designer Ring
Located in Jaipur, IN
It is a contemporary, multi-tiered statement piece that reimagines the traditional Toi et Moi (You and Me) style using crisp geometric structures Details:- Item Code :- RIMJOS-749 M...
Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Double Flower 18K Yellow Gold Ring with Citrine Accents, Size 8
Located in Orlando, FL
Two four-petal blossoms sit side by side on this 18K yellow gold ring, a toi et moi arrangement drawn from nature. Each flower is centered with a warm citrine and finished with a sma...
Citrine, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
4.27 Carat Natural Pear Emerald & Diamond Bypass Halo Ring, 14k White Gold
Located in New Delhi, DL
Two pear-cut natural emeralds meet across an open band in this contemporary Toi et Moi bypass ring, creating an asymmetric two-stone composition.
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Gold is the feel-good metal, the serotonin of jewelry. Wear vintage and antique gold necklaces, watches, gold bracelets or gold rings and you feel happy, you feel dressed, you feel, well, yourself.
Gold, especially yellow gold, with its rich patina and ancient pedigree going back thousands of years, is the steady standby, the well-mannered metal of choice. Any discussion of this lustrous metal comes down to a basic truth: Gold is elementary, my dear. Gold jewelry that couples the mystique of the metal with superb design and craftsmanship achieves the status of an enduring classic. Many luxury houses have given us some of our most treasured and lasting examples of gold jewelry over the years.
Since its founding, in 1837, Tiffany & Co. has built its reputation on its company jewelry as well as its coterie of boutique designers, which has included Jean Schlumberger, Donald Claflin, Angela Cummings and Elsa Peretti. There are numerous gold Tiffany classics worth citing. Some are accented with gemstones, but all stand out for their design and the workmanship displayed.
For the woman who prefers a minimalist look, the Tiffany & Co. twist bangle (thin, slightly ovoid) is stylishly simple. For Cummings devotees, signature pieces feature hard stone inlay, such as her pairs of gold ear clips inlaid with black jade (a play on the classic Chanel black and tan), or bangles whose design recalls ocean waves, with undulating lines of lapis lazuli and mother-of-pearl. And just about any design by the great Jean Schlumberger is by definition a classic.
Even had he eschewed stones and diamonds, Southern-born David Webb would be hailed for the vast arsenal of heavy gold jewelry he designed. Gold, usually hammered or textured in some manner, defines great David Webb jewelry. The self-taught jeweler made very au courant pieces while drawing inspiration from ancient and out-of-the-way sources — East meets West in the commanding gold necklaces made by Webb in the early 1970s. The same could be said for his endlessly varied gold cuffs.
In Europe, many houses have given us gold jewelry that sets the highest standard for excellence, pieces that were highly sought after when they were made and continue to be so.
Numerous designs from Cartier are homages to gold. There are the classic Trinity rings, necklaces and bracelets — trifectas of yellow, white and rose gold. As a testament to the power of love, consider the endurance of the Cartier Love bracelet.
Aldo Cipullo, Cartier’s top in-house designer from the late 1960s into the early ’70s, made history in 1969 with the Love bracelet. Cipullo frequently said that the Love bracelet was born of a sleepless night contemplating a love affair gone wrong and his realization that “the only remnants he possessed of the romance were memories.” He distilled the urge to keep a loved one close into a slim 18-karat gold bangle.
BVLGARI and its coin jewelry, gemme nummarie, hit the jackpot when the line launched in the 1960s. The line has been perennially popular. BVLGARI coin jewelry features ancient Greek and Roman coins embedded in striking gold mounts, usually hung on thick link necklaces of varying lengths. In the 1970s, BVLGARI introduced the Tubogas line, most often made in yellow gold. The Tubogas watches are classics, and then there is the Serpenti, the house's outstanding snake-themed watches and bracelets.
A collection called Monete that incorporated the gold coins is one of several iconic BVLGARI lines that debuted in the 1970s and ’80s, catering to a new generation of empowered women. Just as designers like Halston and Yves Saint Laurent were popularizing fuss-free ready-to-wear fashion for women on the go, BVLGARI offered jewels to be lived in.
Since Van Cleef & Arpels opened its Place Vendôme doors in 1906, collection after collection of jewelry classics have enchanted the public. As predominantly expressed in a honeycomb of gold, there is the Ludo watch and accessories, circa the 1920s, and the golden Zip necklace, 1951, whose ingenious transformation of the traditional zipper was originally proposed by the Duchess of Windsor. Van Cleef's Alhambra, with its Moroccan motif, was introduced in 1968 and from the start its popularity pivoted on royalty and celebrity status. It remains one of VCA’s most popular and collected styles.
Mention must be made of Buccellati, whose name is synonymous with gold so finely spun that it suggests tapestry. The house’s many gold bracelets, typically embellished with a few or many diamonds, signified taste and distinction and are always in favor on the secondary market. Other important mid-20th-century houses known for their gold-themed jewelry include Hermès and Ilias Lalaounis.
Find a stunning collection of vintage and antique gold jewelry on 1stDibs.
Antique diamond rings, diamond tiaras and dazzling vintage diamond earrings are on the wish lists of every lover of fine jewelry. And diamonds and diamond jewelry are primarily associated with storybook engagements and red-carpet grand entrances — indeed, this ultra-cherished gemstone has a dramatic history on its hands.
From “A Diamond Is Forever” to “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” pop culture has ingrained in our minds that diamonds are the most desired, the most lasting and the most valuable gemstone. But what makes the diamond so special? Each stone — whether it’s rubies, sapphires or another stone — is unique and important in its own right. April babies might claim diamonds for themselves, but just about everyone wants this kind of sparkle in their lives!
There are several factors that set diamonds apart from other stones, and these points are important to our gem education.
Diamonds are minerals. They are made up of almost entirely of carbon (carbon comprises 99.95 percent; the remainder consists of various trace elements). Diamonds are the hardest gemstones, ranking number 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Even its name, diamond, is rooted in the Greek adamas, or unconquerable. The only object that can scratch a diamond is another diamond. Diamonds are formed deep within the earth at very high temperatures (1,652–2,372 degrees Fahrenheit at depths between 90 and 120 miles beneath the earth’s surface) and are carried up by volcanic activity. Diamonds are quite rare, according to the Gemological Institute of America, and only 30 percent of all the diamonds mined in the world are gem quality.
In the 1950s, the Gemological Institute of America developed the 4Cs grading system to classify diamonds: clarity, color, cut and carat weight. Not all diamonds are created equal (there are diamonds, and then there are diamonds). The value of the diamond depends on the clarity (flawless diamonds are very rare but a diamond's value decreases if there are many blemishes or inclusions), color (the less color the higher the grade), cut (how the diamond’s facets catch the light, certain cuts of diamonds show off the stone better than others) and carat weight (the bigger, the better).
When you start shopping for a diamond engagement ring, always prioritize the cut, which plays the largest role in the diamond's beauty (taking the time to clean your diamond ring at least every six months or so plays a role in maintaining said beauty). And on 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
Shop antique and vintage diamond rings, diamond necklaces and other extraordinary diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
Antique and vintage rings have long held a special place in the hearts of fine jewelry lovers all over the world.
No matter their origin or specific characteristics, rings are timeless, versatile accessories. They’ve carried deep meaning since at least the Middle Ages, when diamond rings symbolized strength and other kinds of rings were worn to signify romantic feelings or to denote an affiliation with a religious order. Rings have also forever been emblematic of eternity.
Over time, rings have frequently taken the form of serpents, which have long been associated with eternal life, health and renewal. Italian luxury jewelry house Bulgari has become famous for its widely loved Serpenti motif, for example, and its Serpenti ring, like the other accessories in the collection, began as an homage to jewelry of the Roman and Hellenistic eras. The serpent is now a popular motif in fine jewelry. Jewelry devotees have long pined for rings adorned with reptiles, thanks to antique Victorian rings — well, specifically, Queen Victoria’s illustrious engagement ring, which took the form of a gold snake set with rubies, diamonds and an emerald (her birthstone). Designs for Victorian-era engagement rings often featured repoussé work and chasing, in which patterns are hammered into the metal.
Engagement rings, which are reliably intimidating to shop for, are still widely recognized as symbols of love and commitment. On 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
The most collectible antique engagement rings and vintage engagement rings are those from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. Named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who in succession ruled England starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign), antique Georgian rings, be they engagement rings or otherwise, are also coveted by collectors. Pearls, along with colored gemstones like garnets, rubies and sapphires, were widely used in Georgian jewelry. The late-1700s paste jewelry was a predecessor to what we now call fashion or costume jewelry.
The Art Nouveau movement (1880–1910) brought with it rings inspired by the natural world. Antique Art Nouveau rings might feature depictions of winged insects and fauna as well as women, who were simultaneously eroticized and romanticized, frequently with long flowing hair. Art Deco jewelry, on the other hand, which originated during the 1920s and ’30s, is by and large “white jewelry.” White metals, primarily platinum, were favored over yellow gold in the design of antique Art Deco rings and other accessories as well as geometric motifs, with women drawn to the era’s dazzling cocktail rings in particular.
Whether you’re hunting down a chunky classic for a Prohibition-themed cocktail party or seeking a clean contemporary design to complement your casual ensemble, find an exquisite collection of antique, new and vintage rings on 1stDibs.
Ancient Egyptians referred to the vibrant stone as the “gem of the sun.”
There are many ways to showcase a diamond, from traditional prongs to a smooth, streamlined bezel. Here’s everything you need to consider.
The vintage bombé ring is bursting with color and timeless style.
Zircon is a magnificent and underrated natural gemstone that has been worn and adored for centuries.
Givers of fine gems enjoy surprise more than receivers, and women more than men. Find out what else our survey of 3,000 Americans revealed.
If diamonds don’t seem right, what about a magnificent sapphire, ruby or emerald?
Accounting for just 1 percent of all diamonds, these marvels of nature are exceedingly rare and gorgeously complex.
Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.