GIA Certified 1.2 Carat Pear Halo Pave Openwork 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
This extraordinary diamond ring features a stunning center stone of pear cut, showcasing an impressive 1.2 weight, graded at D and SI2.
Diamond, Yellow Gold
Spectra 14.44ct Pear-Shaped Colombian Emerald Statement Ring
By Spectra Fine Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
Carat Weight: Pear-Shaped Emerald 14.44 cts. 148 Diamonds total 5.56 cts.
Diamond, Emerald
$2,887Sale Price|25% Off
Vintage 5.49ct Pear-Shaped Red Tourmaline Diamond Ring, 18K Gold
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Crafted in 18 karat yellow gold, this exquisite ring features a stunning 5.49 carat pear-shaped tourmaline, rich in deep red hues that radiate warmth and elegance.
Diamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Pear Shaped Emerald and Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
Vintage 18k Yellow Gold 0.36tcw Diamond 1.60ct Emerald Ring, featuring a vivid green 1.60ct emerald as the centerpiece. The emerald is accented by approximately 0.36tcw of sparkling ...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2 Pear Shaped Red Ruby ByPass Ring
Located in New York, NY
Indulge in the allure of vibrant red with this exquisite 2 Pear Shaped Red Ruby Bypass Ring. The two 0.65 carat pear-shaped red rubies elegantly bypass each other, surrounded by a ha...
White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Pear Shaped Citrine & Diamond Cocktail Ring Set in Rose Gold.
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Here is a very elegant ring. Simple yet with an edge in design. The ring is set in 18k rose gold and diamonds.
Citrine, Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Gold
Pear-Shaped Tanzanite and Diamond Bypass Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Bloomington, MN
Pear-Shaped Tanzanite and Diamond Bypass Ring in 18K Yellow Gold This elegant 18K yellow gold ring features a prong-set, pear-shaped violet tanzanite weighing 4.20 carats.
Diamond, Tanzanite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Diamond Navette Ring with Pear-Shaped Accents
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
Flanking the center are two pear-shaped diamonds, totaling approximately 0.25 carats, bezel-set within sculptural terminals that enhance the ring’s elongated, eye-shaped form.
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Art Deco Pear-Shaped Opal & Diamond Ring, 1980s
Located in Palm Desert, CA
This elegant ring is crafted in 14 karat yellow gold and showcases a captivating pear-shaped opal as its centerpiece.
Diamond, Opal, Yellow Gold
Platinum and Pear Shaped Diamond Ring. 2.60ct Fancy Yellow Diamond Halo Platinum
Located in New York, NY
Other Details: Primary Stone: Natural Fancy Yellow Diamond Center Diamond Weight: 2.60 carats Center Diamond Cut: Pear Shape Center Diamond Color: Natural Fancy Yellow Certification...
Yellow Diamond, Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
1.63ct Pear Shaped Green Emerald Engagement Ring
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This exceptionally beautiful yellow gold emerald engagement ring is breathtaking! The emerald is hand selected for its exceptional combination of cut, color, and clarity, set on high...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1.44 Ct. Pear Shaped Yellow Diamond Ring 18K Two Tone Gold Designer Diamond Ring
Located in Deira, AE
Designed with a contemporary bypass silhouette, the ring features two pear-shaped yellow diamonds beautifully accented by sparkling white pear-cut diamonds, creating a balanced and e...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold, Rose Gold
$6,616Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 1.22 Carat Knife Edge Band Pear Halo 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Surrounding the main diamond is a captivating pear-shaped halo, adorned with delicate round brilliant-cut side stones set in shared prong settings.
Diamond, Yellow Gold
$19,844Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 2.01 Carat Knife Edge Band Pear Halo 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Surrounding the main diamond is a captivating pear-shaped halo, adorned with delicate round brilliant-cut side stones set in shared prong settings.
Diamond, White Gold
$9,530Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 1 Carat Oval & Pear Three-Stone Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** Celebrate your most cherished moments with this stunning three-stone diamond ring, showcasing an awe-inspiring oval centerpiece of 1 ad...
Diamond, Platinum
$7,898Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 1.01 Carat Oval & Pear Three-Stone Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** Celebrate your most cherished moments with this stunning three-stone diamond ring, showcasing an awe-inspiring oval centerpiece of 1.01...
Diamond, Platinum
1.33 CT GIA Certified Yellow Pear Shape Cut Diamond Double Halo Engagement Ring
By Hasbani Diamonds
Located in London, GB
This Stunning bespoke GIA Certified 0.87 Carat Natural Fancy Light Yellow Pear Shaped Diamond which is set in the center of the Ring with Double Halo, the inner halo features 0.08 Ca...
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Certified Natural Pear Shaped Cabochon Tanzanite Ring with VVS Diamond
By Royaal Stones Ltd
Located in Bangkok, Thailand
*ALL OUR PRICES INCLUDE PREPAID TARRIFS & CUSTOMS DUTIES FOR USA CLIENTS.* The vibrant, transparent blue-violet Tanzanite exudes an enchanting allure, while the sparkling diamon...
Diamond, Tanzanite, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA 1.01 Carat Princess Square & Pear Triple Halo Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Surrounding the center stone, the square-shaped halo is further accentuated by open pear-shaped designs, enveloping the finger in a vintage charm that is both romantic and timeless.
Diamond, Platinum
$15,076Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 1.7 Carat Round & Pear Three-Stone Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
The captivating round diamond is skillfully secured in a classic prong setting, allowing it to capture light from every angle, while the two smaller pear-shaped side stones each cont...
Diamond, Platinum
Sophia D Art Deco Mosaic Pear-Shaped Diamond and Onyx Ring Platinum
By Sophia D
Located in New York, NY
This Art Deco mosaic ring features two pear-shaped natural diamonds totaling 2.04 carats, arranged in a striking offset composition.
Diamond, Onyx, Platinum
Sophia D. 1.20 Carat Pear Shaped Diamond and Blue Sapphire Ring
By Sophia D
Located in New York, NY
An art deco inspired platinum ring designed and handcrafted by Sophia D features a 1.20 carat pear shaped center diamond accented with 0.30 carats small diamonds and 1.20 carat blue ...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
Pear Shaped Diamond Ring with Split Shank Diamond Set Shoulders
Located in London, GB
Pear Shaped Diamond Ring with Split Shank Diamond Set Shoulders.
Diamond, Rose Gold
AGL 9.48 Carats Pear Shaped Tanzanite and Diamond Ring in Platinum
By Kiersten Elizabeth
Located in Southport, CT
Ring Details Pear shaped Tanzanite weighing 7.97 Carats Matched Shied shaped side Diamonds weighing 0.96 Carats Accent Marquis and Round Brilliant Diamonds weighing 0.55 Carats Tot...
Diamond, Tanzanite, Platinum
$68,000Sale Price|20% Off
Crossover Ring with 5-Carat Pear-Shaped Emerald and Brilliant-Cut Diamond Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Exquisite Crossover Ring with 5-Carat Pear-Shaped Emerald and Brilliant-Cut Diamonds This stunning crossover design ring features a 5-carat pear-shaped emerald, GRS certified with m...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
GIA 1.01 Carat Princess Square & Pear Triple Halo Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Surrounding the center stone, the square-shaped halo is further accentuated by open pear-shaped designs, enveloping the finger in a vintage charm that is both romantic and timeless.
Diamond, Platinum
14K White Gold Pear Shaped 1.25 ctw. Diamond Ring
Located in Houston, TX
14K White Gold Pear Shaped 1.25 ctw. Diamond Ring Elegantly crafted in 14K white gold, this exquisite ring features a dazzling cluster of round brilliant diamonds set in a classic p...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
GIA 1.01 Carat Round Three-Stone East-West Pear Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
The ring features a unique raised prong setting that enhances the diamond's brilliance, while two pear-shaped diamonds on either side, prong set in an east-west orientation, add a to...
Diamond, Platinum
$2,332Sale Price|25% Off
14K White Gold Cross Ring with 1.90ct Pear-Shaped Sapphires & Diamonds
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite 14K white gold cross ring features two matched pear-shaped natural sapphires with a combined weight of 1.90 carats, beautifully accented by 0.50 carats of fine diamonds.
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
GIA 1.76 Carat Round Three-Stone East-West Pear Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
The ring features a unique raised prong setting that enhances the diamond's brilliance, while two pear-shaped diamonds on either side, prong set in an east-west orientation, add a to...
Diamond, Platinum
GIA 1.06 Carat Round Three-Stone East-West Pear Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
The ring features a unique raised prong setting that enhances the diamond's brilliance, while two pear-shaped diamonds on either side, prong set in an east-west orientation, add a to...
Diamond, Platinum
Pear-Shaped Pink Sapphire and Diamond Halo Ring in 14k White Gold
Located in Bloomington, MN
Pear-Shaped Pink Sapphire and Diamond Halo Ring in 14k White Gold Crafted in 14k white gold, this ring features a 1.25 carat pear-shaped pink sapphire secured in a prong setting.
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
Spectra Fine Jewelry 5.02 and 3.02 Carat Pear-Shaped Diamond Bypass Ring
By Spectra Fine Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
This captivating bypass ring features two stunning pear-shaped diamonds, a 5.02 carat E SI2 and a 3.02 carat F SI2, both certified by GIA for their exceptional quality.
Diamond, Platinum
GIA-Certified Pear-Shaped Natural Yellow Diamond Floral Cocktail Ring in 18KGold
By HYT
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This stunning GIA-certified ring showcases a natural pear-shaped yellow diamond at its center, surrounded by natural white diamonds that form a graceful petal-like design.
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
2.30ct Pear Shaped Diamond Eternity Band in Platinum
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This elegant handmade eternity band is crafted from platinum. The band features pear-shaped diamonds, each meticulously matched in size, cut, color, and clarity.
Diamond, Platinum
Marquise Diamond and Pear-Shaped Ruby Three-Stone Cluster Ring
Located in New York, NY
Marquise Diamond and Pear-Shaped Ruby Three-Stone Cluster Ring Description: This multi-stone ring is crafted in platinum and white gold, featuring a central 0.57-carat marquise-cut ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
14k Yellow Gold Pear Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring w/ Baguettes, Size 7.0g
Located in Providence, RI
This stunning 14k yellow gold engagement ring showcases a brilliant pear-shaped diamond center stone set in a six-prong setting.
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$12,000Sale Price|52% Off
Gabriel & Co. 1.55 Carat Pear-Shaped Diamond Crossover Engagement Ring in 14K
By Gabriel & Co.
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite Gabriel & Co. engagement ring showcases a beautifully proportioned pear-shaped natural diamond as its centerpiece, elegantly elevated by the brand’s signature cros...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Pear-Shaped Peridot Bezel with Diamonds Ring in 14K Yellow Gold
By Five Star Jewelry
Located in Austin, TX
Vintage inspired with lots of personality, this is the peridot ring for you. Construction is 14 karat yellow gold, genuine diamonds, and natural, genuine peridot gemstone. The beaded...
Diamond, Peridot, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$7,605Sale Price|35% Off
GIA Certified. 0.75ct Pear Shaped Natural Fancy Vivid Orangy Yellow Diamond Ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Surrounding the center stone are natural white brilliant-cut diamonds and pear-shaped diamonds. These sparkling gems further enhance the beauty of the orange-yellow diamond, adding a...
Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
Contemporary Double Pear-Shaped Emerald & Diamond Halo Bypass Ring in 14K Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This contemporary bypass ring in featuring 0.72 carats two elegant pear-shaped emeralds, set in 14K white gold.
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$136,114Sale Price|60% Off
GIA 5 Carat Pear Three-Stone Tapered Baguette 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring❤️ to receive price updates** Elegantly designed, this stunning diamond ring captivates with its remarkable features.
Diamond, White Gold
GIA 1.52ct Round Solitaire & Pear Three-Stone 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Handcrafted in New York, this exquisite diamond ring features a breathtaking arrangement of a central round diamond, weighing 1.52 , accompanied by two elegantly positioned pear-shap...
Diamond, White Gold
GIA 0.9ct Round Solitaire & Pear Three-Stone 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Handcrafted in New York, this exquisite diamond ring features a breathtaking arrangement of a central round diamond, weighing 0.9 , accompanied by two elegantly positioned pear-shape...
Diamond, White Gold
Nazarelle 14 Karat White GIA Certified Double Pear Shaped Diamond Cocktail Ring
By Nazarelle
Located in Houston, TX
This ring features a pear shaped diamond, prong set, GIA Certified weighing 1.00cts with a color grade (G) and clarity (VS2).
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Vera Belleza's pear shaped dangling Rose cut diamond ring in 18K gold
By Vera Belleza
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Delicate yet striking, this pear-shaped dangling rose-cut diamond ring by Vera Belleza is a masterpiece of modern elegance.
Diamond, 18k Gold
$1,272Sale Price / item|20% Off
Contemporary Pear-Shaped Emerald & Diamond Halo Bypass Ring in 14K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This bypass ring features a 0.49 carat pear-shaped emerald set in 14K yellow gold.
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1.56 Carat Natural Diamond Ring Set in 18K White Gold Pear Shape Design
Located in Deira, AE
The design features a striking pear-shaped center diamond complemented by a beautifully contoured matching diamond band that nests seamlessly beneath the main ring.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
1.80 Carat Aquamarine Engagement Ring. Pear Shaped Diamond Halo 18K White Gold
Located in New York, NY
Other Details: Primary Stone: Aquamarine Center Aquamarine Weight: 1.80 carats Center Aquamarine Cut: Pear Shape Secondary Stones: Sapphires and Diamonds Sapphire Weight: 0.55 cara...
Aquamarine, Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold
Vintage GIA 3.58ct Pear Shaped Bezel-Set Diamond Ballerina 14KWY Gold Ring
Located in New York, NY
A BREATHTAKING Bezel-set Vintage "BALLERINA" 3.58ctw Pear-shaped DIAMOND 14k Gold Ring, CIRCA 1950s The masterful design of this ballerina ring CIRCA 1950s with total 3.58cts diamond...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$6,561Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 1.21 Carat Oval & Pear Three-Stone 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** Celebrate your most cherished moments with this stunning three-stone diamond ring, showcasing an awe-inspiring oval centerpiece of 1.21...
Diamond, White Gold
$5,585Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 0.93 Carat Oval & Pear Three-Stone 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** Celebrate your most cherished moments with this stunning three-stone diamond ring, showcasing an awe-inspiring oval centerpiece of 0.93...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
$12,008Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 1.5 Carat Oval & Pear Three-Stone 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** Celebrate your most cherished moments with this stunning three-stone diamond ring, showcasing an awe-inspiring oval centerpiece of 1.5 ...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
Natural Pear Cut Diamond Open Ring 0.67 Carat 18K White Gold Contemporary Design
Located in Deira, AE
Details:- Item Code: SER-29845B Category: Fine Jewelry Jewelry Type: Ring Metal: 18K White Gold Gross Weight: 1.65 Grams Natural Diamond Weight: 0.67 Carats Diamond Clarity: SI Diamo...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA 0.7 Carat Princess Square & Pear Triple Halo 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Surrounding the center stone, the square-shaped halo is further accentuated by open pear-shaped designs, enveloping the finger in a vintage charm that is both romantic and timeless.
Diamond, White Gold
GIA 1.01 Carat Princess Square & Pear Triple Halo 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Surrounding the center stone, the square-shaped halo is further accentuated by open pear-shaped designs, enveloping the finger in a vintage charm that is both romantic and timeless.
Diamond, Yellow Gold
GIA 1.2 Carat Princess Square & Pear Triple Halo 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Surrounding the center stone, the square-shaped halo is further accentuated by open pear-shaped designs, enveloping the finger in a vintage charm that is both romantic and timeless.
Diamond, White Gold
GIA 1.21 Carat Princess Square & Pear Triple Halo 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Surrounding the center stone, the square-shaped halo is further accentuated by open pear-shaped designs, enveloping the finger in a vintage charm that is both romantic and timeless.
Diamond, Yellow Gold
EGL Certified 2.01 Carat F SI2 Pear Shaped Diamond Three Stone Engagement Ring
Located in beverly hills, CA
A timeless and elegant piece, this classic ring features a stunning 2.01-carat pear-shaped diamond at its center.
Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
Mark Broumand 2.20 Carat Pear Shaped Diamond Eternity Band
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This feminine diamond eternity ring showcases 2.20ct of pear shaped and round brilliant cut diamonds bezel set in platinum.
Diamond, Platinum
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.