Ruby Diamond Platinum Flower Ring, GIA Certified
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A superb oval shaped ruby weighing 2.05 carats takes center stage of this flower themed ring.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
18 Karat Gold 8.95 Carat Ruby and Diamond Cocktail Modulation Ring
By Gems Paradise
Located in Jaipur, IN
The ruby is surrounded by a cluster of diamonds in halo form and a few pear-shaped diamonds forming the petals of the flower.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
Natural Red Ruby and Diamond 18 Karat White Gold Cocktail Ring Gift for Her
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
The design is centered with 0.94 carats of vivid pear-shaped rubies, positioned at each end of the open band for a balanced and dynamic look.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 1940s Ruby Sapphire Diamond Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This fine and impressive ruby, sapphire and diamond ring has been crafted in 18k yellow gold.
Diamond, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Platinum & 18K Yellow Gold Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring – 1.63ct GRS-Certified
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Surrounding the ruby are four pear-shaped diamonds totaling 0.62 carats, arranged like petals, while 22 round brilliant diamonds (0.86 carats total) form an additional halo and casca...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold, Platinum
18K Yellow Gold & Platinum Ruby and Diamond Starburst Ring – 2.02ct GRS-Certifie
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Crafted in a harmonious blend of 18 karat yellow gold and platinum, the ring’s design radiates like a starburst, with twelve pear-shaped diamonds (1.98 carats total) forming luminous...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Platinum
$18,400Sale Price|20% Off
IGI certified 6.72 Carat Ruby & Diamond Cluster Ring Pendent 2 way
Located in KOWLOON, HK
The emerald is elegantly nestled within a cluster design, surrounded by a mesmerizing array of fancy-shaped rose cut diamonds. The pear-shaped ruby in this ring pendant captivates t...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
2.06ct Unheated Mozambique Ruby and Diamond Ring in 18k White Gold, GRS Certifie
Located in Roma, IT
It is set in an 18-karat white gold mounting, framed by a sparkling array of round brilliant-cut diamonds that extend along the shoulders. Two pear-shaped diamonds placed at either s...
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
GRS Certified 0.88 Carat Pigeon Blood Burma No Heat Ruby and Diamond Ring
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
The center stone is a cushion shaped 0.88 carat GRS certified ‘Pigeon Blood’ red ruby The GRS certificate indicates that the stone is from Burma and is natural without any treat...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
GIA Natural Turquoise, Ruby and Diamond Estate Ring in 18k White Gold
Located in La Jolla, CA
GIA Natural Turquoise, Ruby and Diamond Estate Ring in 18k White Gold Estate Turquoise, Diamond and Ruby Ring features a GIA certified Natural Oval Cabochon Turquoise set horizonta...
Diamond, Ruby, Turquoise, 18k Gold, White Gold
18K White Gold Ruby, Sapphire and Diamond Four-Leaf Clover Ring, 0.83ct
Located in Macau, MO
This extraordinary natural ruby and diamond ring is set with four magnificent 0.83-carat pear-cut Burmese ruby, and set with a magnificent 0.19-carat pear-cut Burmese sappsrie, elega...
Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
19th-Century Yellow Gold Duchess Ring Burma Ruby, Ceylon Sapphire, diamonds
Located in MONTMORENCY, FR
Central to its elegant oval design is an antique Old-cut pear shaped diamond (≈ 0.50 ct), flanked by an unheated Burmese ruby (≈ 0.20 ct) and an unheated Ceylon sapphire (≈ 0.30 ct).
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Ruby and Diamond Ring GIA Certified 2.19 Carat Burma No Heat in 18K
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Introducing a brand new ruby and diamond ring by Rewa Jewels. This ring has been inspired by traditional Art Deco themes through it's colorful stones and traditional shaped such as r...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$5,396Sale Price / item|20% Off
Full Pear Diamond Eternity Ring Gift Continuous Diamond 14k White Gold Band
By Spectrum Jewels
Located in Diera, Dubai
Full Pear Diamond Eternity Ring Gift Continuous Diamond 14k White Gold Band This ring features pear-shaped diamonds which are set side-by-side, specifically slanted.
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$6,746Sale Price / item|20% Off
Full Pear Diamond Eternity Ring Gift Continuous Diamond 18k White Gold Band
By Spectrum Jewels
Located in Diera, Dubai
Full Pear Diamond Eternity Ring Gift Continuous Diamond 18k White Gold Band This ring features pear-shaped diamonds which are set side-by-side, specifically slanted.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Victorian 0.30ct Diamond and Ruby Three Stone Ring, C.1880s
Located in London, GB
Two old pear shaped rubies sit to either side of an old cut oval diamond.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Majestic 9.61ct Ruby and Natural Diamonds Ring in 18K Two-Toned Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
At its heart is an impressive 8.35ct pear-shaped ruby in a captivating red hue, exuding passion and elegance.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$200,000Sale Price|20% Off
SSEF Certified 4.05 Carat Unheated Mozambique Ruby Diamond Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
The ruby is elegantly mounted in a refined setting and flanked by two pear-shaped diamond side stones, which add brilliance while emphasizing the vivid red center stone.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Natural 2.00cts Ruby & 0.15cts Diamond Ring in 14k Gold
Located in jaipur, IN
We pay tax and shipping expenses. These are rings made of ruby, diamond, and 14-carat gold. Designed in a delicate floral motif, it features two blossoms, each petal formed by vivid...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold
Natural 2.25cts Ruby & 0.22cts Diamond Ring in 18K Gold
Located in jaipur, IN
This captivating floral-inspired ring is crafted in 18-carat yellow gold, featuring a dazzling arrangement of pear-shaped rubies forming delicate petals.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k 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.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Natural 2.25cts Ruby & 0.66cts Diamond Ring in 18K Gold
Located in jaipur, IN
This stunning floral-inspired ring showcases vivid pear-shaped rubies, artfully arranged as delicate petals.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Untreated Burma Ruby Bypass Ring, 5.70 Carats
Located in New Orleans, LA
The exquisite 5.70-carat ruby and 4.54-carat diamond showcased in this bypass ring create a tantalizing interplay.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
IGI Certified 5.13 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K Rose Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Above the ruby, three pear-shaped diamonds are set in a triangular formation, resembling a crown.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$216,000Sale Price|20% Off
GRS Certified 5 Carat Pigeon Blood Ruby and Diamond Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Center Stone: 5 carat natural ruby Certification: GRS, no indication of heat treatment Color: Vivid Red — “Pigeon Blood Red” Origin: Mozambique Cut: Rectangular Cushion Side Sto...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold, Platinum
$12,000Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 6.45 Carat Burma Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This remarkable ring boasts a rare and exceptional long pear-shaped Burmese ruby, adorned with dazzling diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Nari Fine Jewels Ruby, Sapphire & Diamond Swirl Bypass Ring 14K Yellow Gold
Located in beverly hills, CA
Sparkle with confidence with this 14k yellow gold ring showcasing east-west pear shaped ruby and Sapphire, all totaling 0.50 carat. and with two diamonds nestled in the middle totali...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Toi et Moi Ring 1.02ct Mozambique Ruby & 1.31ct Diamonds Baguettes in 18K Gold
Located in Great Neck, NY
A striking and romantic high-jewelry Toi et Moi ring, masterfully crafted in 18K white gold and showcasing a rare no-heat Mozambique ruby paired with an exceptionally bright pear-sha...
Ruby, White Diamond, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Bespoke 2.90 Carat Pear D Color Double Halo Diamond Engagement Ring Platinum
Located in London, GB
Create your own bespoke piece of timeless jewellery, This Stunning GIA Certified 2.00 Carat diamond Color D - Clarity VS2 Pear Shaped Diamond which is set in the centre of the Ring f...
White Diamond, Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, Platinum, 18k Gold, Whi...
$76,000Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 4.03 Carat Burma Ruby and Diamond Three-Stone Platinum Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
Flanked by two perfectly matched pear-shaped white diamonds, the setting is crafted in luxurious platinum to emphasize the timeless elegance of the piece.
Ruby, Platinum
GRS Certified 1.94 Carat Ruby and 1.74 Carat Diamond Ring in 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Warszawa, PL
This exquisite ring is crafted from 14-karat yellow gold and showcases a natural pear-shaped cabochon ruby weighing approximately 1.94 carats and measuring 10.82 × 6.98 × 2.69 mm.
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold
1.38 Carat Burma No Heat Ruby And Diamond Ring in 18 Karat White Gold
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
This exquisite ruby and diamond ring made by Rewa jewels in 18 karat white gold.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ring with ruby and brilliant cut diamonds up to 0.05ct 14k gold 5.0 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k bicolor gold ring set with ruby and brilliant-cut diamond up to 0.05 ct - F/G - VS - ring size US 6.5 - EU 17.25 (54) Detailed description: The top of the ring is 6.2 mm wide.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold
Opal Ruby Pearl Diamond 18k Gold Asymmetrical Cocktail Ring
Located in Monte Carlo, MC
Crafted in 18k gold, the ring is set with a pear-shaped opal, a cabochon ruby, a round pearl and 21 square-cut diamonds.
Ruby, Pearl, Opal, White Diamond, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$70,400Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 2.03 Carat Unheated Cushion Ruby Diamond Halo Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Surrounding the center stone is a luminous halo of sixteen pear-shaped diamonds, carefully arranged to frame the ruby and emphasize its vibrant color.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
VR Jewels Blooming Ruby Diamond Floral Cocktail Ring 1.18ct in 14K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
The pear-shaped ruby petals create a blooming flower design that adds a feminine and contemporary touch.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$140,000Sale Price|20% Off
5.88 Carat Unheated Mozambique Ruby and Diamond Ring – C. Dunaigre Certified
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
The ruby measures 11.63 x 10.28 x 5.22 mm and is set in an elegant ring mounting, accented by pear-shaped white diamonds on each side.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 1.86 Carat Burma Ruby Diamond Ring in Platinum
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Surrounding the ruby are pear-shaped diamonds totaling 1.36 carats, arranged in a striking pattern that enhances the brilliance of the central stone.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
GIA Cabochon Ruby & Diamond Three-Stone Platinum Ring
Located in Miami, FL
Ruby: 5.39 carats, heated, oval cabochon (GIA Certified) Ruby Dimensions: 11.12 x 8.85 x 5.07 mm Diamonds: Approx. 0.55 ctw, pear-shaped, H–I color, VS clarity Metal: Platinum band w...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Mark Broumand 4.30 Carat Diamond and Ruby Vintage Ring
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This ravishing vintage diamond and ruby ring features a stunning double leaf design studded with 2.30ct of round and Asscher cut diamonds.
Pavé Diamond Coil Ring with Ruby and Gold Flowers in 22 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Designed with a coiled, modern silhouette in rich 22 karat yellow gold, the ring showcases a vibrant pear-shaped ruby blossom accented by a sparkling coil arrangement of round brilli...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
Certified Pear Cut 3.62Ct Turquoise & Diamond Floral Cocktail Ring 14k Gold
By Spectrum Jewels
Located in Diera, Dubai
Certified Pear Cut 3.62Ct Turquoise & Diamond Floral Cocktail Ring 14k Gold Designed to turn heads, this handcrafted ring features a bold combination of vivid blue turquoise and spa...
Diamond, Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$5,638Sale Price / item|20% Off
Certified Pear Cut 3.62Ct Turquoise & Diamond Floral Cocktail Ring 18k Gold
By Spectrum Jewels
Located in Diera, Dubai
Certified Pear Cut 3.62Ct Turquoise & Diamond Floral Cocktail Ring 18k Gold Designed to turn heads, this handcrafted ring features a bold combination of vivid blue turquoise and spa...
Diamond, Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA Certified 1.30 Carat Burma Ruby Diamond Ring in Platinum
Located in Hong Kong, HK
PT 950 platinum GIA-certified 1.30-carat Burma Ruby 0.66 carats of brilliant-cut diamonds 1.14 carats of pear-shaped diamonds
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Ruby and Diamond Ring GRS Certified 1.51 Carat Pigeon Blood Burma No Heat in 18K
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Introducing a brand new ruby and diamond ring by Rewa Jewels. This ring has been inspired by classic themes through it's symmetrical designs and traditional shaped such as rounds and...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
GRS Certified 3.28 Carat Burma Ruby Pigeon Blood And Diamond Ring In 18K W.Gold
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
An elegant Burmese ruby and diamond ring showcased by Rewa jewels is handcrafted in 18 karat white gold.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
2.36ct NATURAL RUBY DIAMONDS 4 TIER 3d COCKTAIL PETAL DIAMOND RING 18KT
Located in New York, NY
3D Petal Leaf 4 tier cocktail ring 1.06ct round diamonds G-color vs-2 clarity 1.30ct natural pear shaped rubies clean clarity, transparent and vivid red. 18kt. white gold 19...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Bvlgari Bulgari Band Ring 18k Gold Cabochon Ruby Diamond AGL Certificate
By Bulgari
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Flanking the ruby are two pear shaped diamonds, each set in a way that follows the natural curve of the band.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
1990s Baroda-Style 18kt Gold Tourmaline, Emerald, Ruby, Diamond Ring
Located in Malmö, Skåne län
This exceptional 1990s cocktail ring, set in 18 kt gold with a faceted green tourmaline flanked by pear emeralds, calibré cut rubies, and brilliant-cut diamonds, reflects not only b...
Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Tourmaline, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
GRS 1 Carat Pigeon Blood Burma No Heat Ruby and Diamond Ring in 18 Karat Gold
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
The center stone is a cushion shaped 1.00 carat GRS certified ‘Pigeon Blood’ red ruby The GRS (Gem Research Swisslab) certificate indicates that the stone is from Burma and is n...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$1,223Sale Price|20% Off
1.35 CTW Natural Ruby, Sapphire & Diamond Ring 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Ruby and Sapphire Engagement Ring in 18 Karat Yellow Gold with 1.00 Carat Pear Shape Gemstones and 0.35 Carat Natural Diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Yellow Gold
$2,144Sale Price / item|20% Off
Spectrum Jewels 1.4TCW Zambian Emerald Pear Shape Halo Diamond White Gold Ring
By Spectrum Jewels
Located in Diera, Dubai
Spectrum Jewels 1.4TCW Zambian Emerald Pear Shape Halo Diamond White Gold Ring. This pear-shaped emerald ring is surrounded by a radiant halo of brilliant-cut diamonds, creating a lu...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Certified Natural Burmese Ruby Statement Ring Set In 18K White Gold
By Royaal Stones Ltd
Located in Bangkok, Thailand
Features : 18K White Gold : 9.25 Grams Burmese Ruby Pear Shape : 3.91 Carats Diamonds ( Marquise ) 7 Pieces / 1.02 Carats Diamonds ( Oval ) 4 Pieces / 0.56 Carats Diamond ( Ro...
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
$3,600Sale Price|20% Off
IGI Certified 2.22 Carat Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Prepare to be enchanted by the extraordinary IGI certified 18K white gold ring featuring a stunning 1.38ct oval-shaped ruby, accompanied by two pear-shaped rubies totaling 0.84ct, an...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 1980s 0.80 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Flower Ring with Rubies
Located in New York, NY
Finely crafted in 18K yellow and white gold with a Round Brilliant cut center Diamond weighing approximately 0.80 carats, accented by 10 Pear-Shaped Ruby "petals" weighing approximat...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
$304,000Sale Price|20% Off
GRS Certified 4.66 Carat No Heat Mozambique Vivid Red Heart Ruby Diamond Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
A striking ruby and diamond ring centered with a 4.66 carat natural heart-shaped ruby certified by GRS GemResearch Swisslab.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
$35,400Sale Price|60% Off
NWT $88, 500 Fancy Large 18KT Gold Glittering Ruby Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Rare Important Radiant 18KT Yellow Gold Large Ruby Diamond Ring. Ring is comprised of A Gorgeous Fancy Fiery Oval Ruby surrounded with Exquis...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
Gold is the feel-good metal, the serotonin of jewelry. Wear vintage and antique gold necklaces, watches, gold bracelets or gold rings and you feel happy, you feel dressed, you feel, well, yourself.
Gold, especially yellow gold, with its rich patina and ancient pedigree going back thousands of years, is the steady standby, the well-mannered metal of choice. Any discussion of this lustrous metal comes down to a basic truth: Gold is elementary, my dear. Gold jewelry that couples the mystique of the metal with superb design and craftsmanship achieves the status of an enduring classic. Many luxury houses have given us some of our most treasured and lasting examples of gold jewelry over the years.
Since its founding, in 1837, Tiffany & Co. has built its reputation on its company jewelry as well as its coterie of boutique designers, which has included Jean Schlumberger, Donald Claflin, Angela Cummings and Elsa Peretti. There are numerous gold Tiffany classics worth citing. Some are accented with gemstones, but all stand out for their design and the workmanship displayed.
For the woman who prefers a minimalist look, the Tiffany & Co. twist bangle (thin, slightly ovoid) is stylishly simple. For Cummings devotees, signature pieces feature hard stone inlay, such as her pairs of gold ear clips inlaid with black jade (a play on the classic Chanel black and tan), or bangles whose design recalls ocean waves, with undulating lines of lapis lazuli and mother-of-pearl. And just about any design by the great Jean Schlumberger is by definition a classic.
Even had he eschewed stones and diamonds, Southern-born David Webb would be hailed for the vast arsenal of heavy gold jewelry he designed. Gold, usually hammered or textured in some manner, defines great David Webb jewelry. The self-taught jeweler made very au courant pieces while drawing inspiration from ancient and out-of-the-way sources — East meets West in the commanding gold necklaces made by Webb in the early 1970s. The same could be said for his endlessly varied gold cuffs.
In Europe, many houses have given us gold jewelry that sets the highest standard for excellence, pieces that were highly sought after when they were made and continue to be so.
Numerous designs from Cartier are homages to gold. There are the classic Trinity rings, necklaces and bracelets — trifectas of yellow, white and rose gold. As a testament to the power of love, consider the endurance of the Cartier Love bracelet.
Aldo Cipullo, Cartier’s top in-house designer from the late 1960s into the early ’70s, made history in 1969 with the Love bracelet. Cipullo frequently said that the Love bracelet was born of a sleepless night contemplating a love affair gone wrong and his realization that “the only remnants he possessed of the romance were memories.” He distilled the urge to keep a loved one close into a slim 18-karat gold bangle.
BVLGARI and its coin jewelry, gemme nummarie, hit the jackpot when the line launched in the 1960s. The line has been perennially popular. BVLGARI coin jewelry features ancient Greek and Roman coins embedded in striking gold mounts, usually hung on thick link necklaces of varying lengths. In the 1970s, BVLGARI introduced the Tubogas line, most often made in yellow gold. The Tubogas watches are classics, and then there is the Serpenti, the house's outstanding snake-themed watches and bracelets.
A collection called Monete that incorporated the gold coins is one of several iconic BVLGARI lines that debuted in the 1970s and ’80s, catering to a new generation of empowered women. Just as designers like Halston and Yves Saint Laurent were popularizing fuss-free ready-to-wear fashion for women on the go, BVLGARI offered jewels to be lived in.
Since Van Cleef & Arpels opened its Place Vendôme doors in 1906, collection after collection of jewelry classics have enchanted the public. As predominantly expressed in a honeycomb of gold, there is the Ludo watch and accessories, circa the 1920s, and the golden Zip necklace, 1951, whose ingenious transformation of the traditional zipper was originally proposed by the Duchess of Windsor. Van Cleef's Alhambra, with its Moroccan motif, was introduced in 1968 and from the start its popularity pivoted on royalty and celebrity status. It remains one of VCA’s most popular and collected styles.
Mention must be made of Buccellati, whose name is synonymous with gold so finely spun that it suggests tapestry. The house’s many gold bracelets, typically embellished with a few or many diamonds, signified taste and distinction and are always in favor on the secondary market. Other important mid-20th-century houses known for their gold-themed jewelry include Hermès and Ilias Lalaounis.
Find a stunning collection of vintage and antique gold jewelry on 1stDibs.
Antique diamond rings, diamond tiaras and dazzling vintage diamond earrings are on the wish lists of every lover of fine jewelry. And diamonds and diamond jewelry are primarily associated with storybook engagements and red-carpet grand entrances — indeed, this ultra-cherished gemstone has a dramatic history on its hands.
From “A Diamond Is Forever” to “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” pop culture has ingrained in our minds that diamonds are the most desired, the most lasting and the most valuable gemstone. But what makes the diamond so special? Each stone — whether it’s rubies, sapphires or another stone — is unique and important in its own right. April babies might claim diamonds for themselves, but just about everyone wants this kind of sparkle in their lives!
There are several factors that set diamonds apart from other stones, and these points are important to our gem education.
Diamonds are minerals. They are made up of almost entirely of carbon (carbon comprises 99.95 percent; the remainder consists of various trace elements). Diamonds are the hardest gemstones, ranking number 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Even its name, diamond, is rooted in the Greek adamas, or unconquerable. The only object that can scratch a diamond is another diamond. Diamonds are formed deep within the earth at very high temperatures (1,652–2,372 degrees Fahrenheit at depths between 90 and 120 miles beneath the earth’s surface) and are carried up by volcanic activity. Diamonds are quite rare, according to the Gemological Institute of America, and only 30 percent of all the diamonds mined in the world are gem quality.
In the 1950s, the Gemological Institute of America developed the 4Cs grading system to classify diamonds: clarity, color, cut and carat weight. Not all diamonds are created equal (there are diamonds, and then there are diamonds). The value of the diamond depends on the clarity (flawless diamonds are very rare but a diamond's value decreases if there are many blemishes or inclusions), color (the less color the higher the grade), cut (how the diamond’s facets catch the light, certain cuts of diamonds show off the stone better than others) and carat weight (the bigger, the better).
When you start shopping for a diamond engagement ring, always prioritize the cut, which plays the largest role in the diamond's beauty (taking the time to clean your diamond ring at least every six months or so plays a role in maintaining said beauty). And on 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
Shop antique and vintage diamond rings, diamond necklaces and other extraordinary diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
Antique and vintage rings have long held a special place in the hearts of fine jewelry lovers all over the world.
No matter their origin or specific characteristics, rings are timeless, versatile accessories. They’ve carried deep meaning since at least the Middle Ages, when diamond rings symbolized strength and other kinds of rings were worn to signify romantic feelings or to denote an affiliation with a religious order. Rings have also forever been emblematic of eternity.
Over time, rings have frequently taken the form of serpents, which have long been associated with eternal life, health and renewal. Italian luxury jewelry house Bulgari has become famous for its widely loved Serpenti motif, for example, and its Serpenti ring, like the other accessories in the collection, began as an homage to jewelry of the Roman and Hellenistic eras. The serpent is now a popular motif in fine jewelry. Jewelry devotees have long pined for rings adorned with reptiles, thanks to antique Victorian rings — well, specifically, Queen Victoria’s illustrious engagement ring, which took the form of a gold snake set with rubies, diamonds and an emerald (her birthstone). Designs for Victorian-era engagement rings often featured repoussé work and chasing, in which patterns are hammered into the metal.
Engagement rings, which are reliably intimidating to shop for, are still widely recognized as symbols of love and commitment. On 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
The most collectible antique engagement rings and vintage engagement rings are those from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. Named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who in succession ruled England starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign), antique Georgian rings, be they engagement rings or otherwise, are also coveted by collectors. Pearls, along with colored gemstones like garnets, rubies and sapphires, were widely used in Georgian jewelry. The late-1700s paste jewelry was a predecessor to what we now call fashion or costume jewelry.
The Art Nouveau movement (1880–1910) brought with it rings inspired by the natural world. Antique Art Nouveau rings might feature depictions of winged insects and fauna as well as women, who were simultaneously eroticized and romanticized, frequently with long flowing hair. Art Deco jewelry, on the other hand, which originated during the 1920s and ’30s, is by and large “white jewelry.” White metals, primarily platinum, were favored over yellow gold in the design of antique Art Deco rings and other accessories as well as geometric motifs, with women drawn to the era’s dazzling cocktail rings in particular.
Whether you’re hunting down a chunky classic for a Prohibition-themed cocktail party or seeking a clean contemporary design to complement your casual ensemble, find an exquisite collection of antique, new and vintage rings on 1stDibs.
Ancient Egyptians referred to the vibrant stone as the “gem of the sun.”
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.