Opal Cabochon Rings
20th Century Engagement Rings
Opal, Gold, 18k Gold
20th Century Engagement Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
1990s French Art Deco Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, White Gold
Antique Early 1900s British Edwardian More Rings
Diamond, Opal, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Cocktail Rings
Opal, Gold Plate, Silver
2010s Turkish Modern Solitaire Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Cocktail Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Fashion Rings
Opal, White Diamond, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Fashion Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Fashion Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Diamond, Tsavorite, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
2010s Turkish Modern Fashion Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Fashion Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Fashion Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Tsavorite, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Ye...
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Three-Stone Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
2010s Turkish Modern Cocktail Rings
Black Opal, Opal, Yellow Gold, White Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Fashion Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Tourmaline, Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Cocktail Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Fashion Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Tsavorite, Tanzanite, Rhodolite, Gold, 18k...
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Cocktail Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Cocktail Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary More Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Contemporary Fashion Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Topaz, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Turkish Modern Engagement Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold
2010s Turkish Modern Engagement Rings
Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold
2010s Turkish Modern Engagement Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 2000s North American Art Deco Cocktail Rings
Opal, 18k Gold, Vermeil
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Mandarin Garnet, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Topaz, Black Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s American Signet Rings
Opal, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Topaz, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century Unknown Cocktail Rings
Opal, Fire Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Edwardian Solitaire Rings
Amethyst, Opal, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Peridot, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1980s Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Cultured Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Thai Edwardian Cocktail Rings
Amethyst, Opal, Yellow Gold, 9k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Cocktail Rings
Emerald, Opal, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary French Contemporary Dome Rings
Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Solitaire Rings
Opal, Topaz, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s American Contemporary Fashion Rings
Black Opal, Opal, Sterling Silver, Silver, Gold Plate, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
Vintage 1970s American Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum, 14k Gold
20th Century Band Rings
Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Opal, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
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Opal Cabochon Rings For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much are Opal Cabochon Rings?
The Legacy of Opal in Jewelry Design
Opals were discovered in 400 BC, and since then five types have been found throughout the world. Before you start shopping for mysteriously beautiful vintage opal rings and other opal jewelry, learn about the different varieties of the gem — and find out which historical figure was reportedly willing to trade his kingdom for a single stone.
Here is a little riddle for you: the month of October has two birthstones, but only one of them encompasses the colors of other birthstones. If you guessed opal, you’re right! (The other gemstone associated with the month of October is tourmaline.)
Opals are such unusual gemstones that there are too many old-wives tales associated with them, like if you’re a blond, wearing an opal necklace will protect your locks from losing color. Opals were also very fashionable in the early 19th century, up until the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s novel Anne of Geierstein in 1829. The title heroine wears an opal and succumbs to an untimely death. However, the British monarchy, and in particular Queen Victoria, did not let this story get in their way, and they frequently gifted opals to friends and family members. October babies should disregard the noise and proudly wear their opals!
There are five types of precious opals: boulder opal, fire opal, crystal/water opal, black opal, and white/light opal. Each variety is distinguished by its color.
So, where does the name come from? The word opal is thought to originate from the Roman opalus or from the Sanskrit úpala (“precious stone”) or from the Greek opallios (“to see a color change”). So while there have been many names for the stones, opals were first discovered in 400 BC in Ethiopia. But the early reference that comes up most often in history books is from the Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder, who wrote about it in 75 AD. In his text he refers to it as opali. The Romans were big fans of opal, Mark Antony was so enamored by it that, as the story goes, he was willing to trade a portion of his kingdom for a single opal.
There's a wide variety of antique and vintage opal jewelry on 1stDibs (and you won't have to trade your kingdom for it).
Finding the Right Rings for You
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.
- What is a cabochon Opal?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021A cabochon opal is an opal that’s cut in a dome shape. There are two types of opal: common and precious. The former is, as its name implies, not very rare. Precious opal, on the other hand, is more rare than diamonds and considered very high quality.
- What are cabochon rings?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022A cabochon ring is a piece of jewelry that shows off a gemstone in the cabochon style, meaning it has a polished and rounded top surface and a flat back. It differs from a faceted ring, in which the gem is cut with tools. Cabochon rings tend to highlight the color and reflectivity of the gem and do not have the sparkle of faceted stones. Find a range of cabochon rings on 1stDibs.
- What is a cabochon ring?1 Answer
Roman Malakov DiamondsApril 19, 2021A cabochon ring is a ring set with a cabochon gemstone. A cabochon is characterized as having a convex, rounded surface that is polished but unfaceted. - Do opal engagement rings last?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2023Yes, an opal engagement ring can last if you care for it properly. Generally, opals are more delicate than other gemstones commonly used in engagement rings, like diamonds, sapphires and emeralds. As a result, they can be easily damaged, making it important that you take your ring off before performing household chores, exercising, playing sports or doing other activities where you'll use your hands a lot. Find a collection of opal engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- Can you wear an opal ring everyday?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021No, you cannot wear an opal ring everyday. Since they are relatively fragile compared to other stones, opals are not durable for daily-wear.
Dover JewelryFebruary 24, 2021Not recommended! Opals are more delicate then other gemstones and if cared for correctly will last a lifetime and can be handed down throughout generations. - 1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023No, opals aren't bad for engagement rings. One drawback of the gemstone is that it isn't as hard as many other popular gems, like diamonds, emeralds and sapphires, so it may be more susceptible to scratches. However, you can still choose an opal engagement ring if you wish. Taking it off before you engage in activities that could damage the ring can help extend its life. Shop an assortment of opal engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021No, opal is not good for engagement rings. Although opal is a beautiful stone, it is not the best choice for an engagement ring. Since they are relatively fragile compared to diamonds and sapphires, opals are not durable for daily wear.
- Can opal rings be worn everyday?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Opal rings are very delicate compared to other stones, and are not recommended for everyday wear. However, with proper care, they can last through the generations. Shop a collection of expertly vetted gems from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Are opal rings Bad luck?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Although opals were considered good luck in Roman culture and a symbol of good luck, there are many legends that link opals with death and bad omens.
- Is opal good for wedding rings?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023Yes, opal can be good for wedding rings. Many people love the unique coloration of opals and opt for wedding rings set with them. One thing to keep in mind is that opals are more delicate than many other gemstones like sapphires, rubies and diamonds, so they are more vulnerable to scratching and breakage. It is a good idea to remove your wedding ring before working with tools, performing chores, playing sports or engaging in other activities that could potentially damage your opal. Explore a variety of opal wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021While opals are more fragile than diamonds, adding a higher risk for a daily-wear ring, they can still be good engagement rings. Opals are thought of as precious and powerful and are said to symbolize fidelity so can be great and unique rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Yes, opal engagement rings can be a good idea. This stone represents faithfulness, confidence, and creativity -- making the stone a fitting choice for an engagement ring. Opals, however, are not ideal for everyday wear.
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