Fancy Light Green Diamond ring 18KT white gold Rare engagement ring
Located in Boca Raton, FL
One of a kind engagement ring made with one single fancy light green diamond and a halo of white diamonds VS clarity and F color, this ring is made with extreme character and craftsm...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co Very rare large Rubellite and diamond ring
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Addlestone, GB
Tiffany & Co Rubellite and Diamond ring. Set in platinum, with a large pear cut rubellite tourmaline of approximately 6.15 carats With a Halo border of 53 round brilliant cut Dia...
Diamond, Rubelite, Platinum
$40,000Sale Price|20% Off
Fancy Yellow diamond ring sun art deco diamond ring 18KT ring Rare Find
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Showstopper!!!! Sun designer ring with boasting center pentagon diamond and baguette diamonds, center is also made with one single diamond under gallery for extra sparkle! This ring ...
$8,000Sale Price|60% Off
NWT $20, 000 Rare 18KT Gorgeous Glittering Yellow Diamond Black Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Rare Important Radiant 18KT Gold Fancy Yellow and Black Diamond Ring!
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Black Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cocktail ring with Rare Pink diamonds and white diamonds, made in platinum
By HYT
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Made with Rare Pink diamonds and white diamonds - Pink diamonds- 0.16 cts - White diamonds- 0.61 cts Made in 18K Gold & platinum HYT Jewelry is a Fine Diamond and Gemstone Je...
Diamond, White Diamond, Pink Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Rare Pink Tourmaline Diamond 18K White Gold Exclusive Ring
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring (Matching Earrings Available) 18K White Gold Weight 4,75 GMS Tourmaline -1/4.86 Cts Diamond-38/0.129 Cts Size-52 Step back in time with this exquisite Art Deco-inspir...
Diamond, Tourmaline, White Gold
$195,000Sale Price|69% Off
18KT Rare Exquisite Massive Fancy Glittering Paraiba Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
The Following Items we are offering is a Rare Important Spectacular and Brilliant 18KT Gold Large Massive Gorgeous Paraiba and Diamond Ring.
Diamond, Paraiba, Gold, 18k Gold
6.20 Total Carat Rare Yellow Sapphire Ladies Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
5.60Carat Rare Yellow Sapphire Ladies Diamond Ring 6.20 Total Carat Rare Yellow Sapphire Ladies Diamond Ring -Metal Type: 14K White Gold -5.60Carat Oval Natural Yellow Sapphire -0.6...
Diamond, Yellow Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
$3,009Sale Price / item|20% Off
Rare Customize Tsavorite Diamond White Gold Ring
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Necklace and Earrings Available) Diamond 1-RND-0,04-G/VS2A Diamond 20-RND-0,19-G/VS2A Diamond 11-RND-0,03-G/VS2A Tsavorite 28-0,28ct Weight 2.78 gra...
14k Gold
$4,336Sale Price / item|20% Off
Rare Customize Cognac Diamond Yellow Gold Ring
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring Yellow Gold 14 K (Matching Earrings and Necklace Available) Diamond 3-RND-0,13-G/VS2A Diamond 8-RND-0,08-I/VS2A Diamond 24-RND-0,18-G/VS2A Diamond 52-RND-0,31-I/VS2A Weigh...
14k Gold
20.04-Carat Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring Rare Color VS2 Clarity
Located in Mumbai, IN
This extraordinary 20.04-carat Fancy Yellow diamond ring is a masterpiece of vibrant beauty and rare elegance.
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
Natural Burma Ruby Ring. AGL 12.90ct Cushion Cut Rare Ruby Diamond Platinum Ring
Located in New York, NY
Carat Weight: Approx 12.90 Carats Stone Cut: Cushion Cut Stone: Rare Natural Burma Ruby Jewelry Type: Engagement Ring Jewelry Style: Prong Set Ring Metal: Platinum Ring Size: 6.75 US...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
$3,950Sale Price|56% Off
NWT $9, 000 Rare Important Fancy 18KT Gold Yellow Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is this Beautiful Rare Important 18KT Gold Large Glittering Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring.
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
$3,009Sale Price / item|20% Off
Rare Customize Tsavorite Diamond White Gold Ring
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Earrings Available) Size 16 Diamond 1-Round 57-0,03-4/6A Diamond 8-Round 57-0,07-4/6A Tsavorite 19-Round-0,25 2/2C Tsavorite 8-Round-0,07 1/2C Weight...
14k Gold
$70,000Sale Price|65% Off
NWT $205, 000 Rare Important Fancy 18KT Gold Yellow Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
Ring is comprised of a Magnificent Rare Gorgeous Fancy Yellow Glittering Diamond surrounded with Fancy Glittering Diamonds!!!
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
$45,500Sale Price|65% Off
NWT $130, 000 Rare Important Fancy 18KT Gold Yellow Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
Ring is comprised of a Magnificent Rare Gorgeous Fancy Yellow Glittering Diamond surrounded with Fancy Glittering Diamonds!!!
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
$29,750Sale Price|65% Off
NWT $85, 000 Rare Important Fancy 18KT Gold Yellow Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is this Beautiful Rare Important 18KT Gold Large Glittering GIA Certified Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring.
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
$3,677Sale Price / item|20% Off
Rare Amethyst White Diamond Yellow Gold Ring
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Yellow Gold 14K Ring Size 17 Weight 9.77 gram Diamond 48-Round 57-0,5-3/6A Amethyst 1-17,84 2/1A With a heritage of ancient fine Swiss jewelry traditions, NATKINA is a Geneva based...
14k Gold
$1,916Sale Price|20% Off
Rare Alexandrite & Diamond Ring in 14k White Gold- GIA 2235260875
Located in Bloomington, MN
Rare Alexandrite & Diamond Ring in 14k White Gold- GIA 2235260875 Crafted in 14k white gold, this ring centers on a 0.65 carat natural alexandrite accented by graduated round di...
Alexandrite, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Rare Art Deco Period Sapphire & Diamond Ring With IGI Report
Located in Media, PA
Title: Rare Platinum Ring with 13.00x10.35mm Lab-Grown Sapphire and Diamond Accents Ring Size 7.5 Description: This bold and modern platinum ring showcases a striking laboratory-g...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Rare Kashmir GIA 3.97cts Blue Sapphire Diamond Platinum Ring
Located in Miami, FL
This GIA certified Extremely Rare Natural Kashmir Blue Sapphire from the Himalaya without any treatments with Diamond Halo, is a special piece, Hand Crafted in solid Platinum with 1...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
Rare 1.90 Carat Russian Demantoid Diamond Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Russian demantoids over 1 carat are rare. Total demantoid weight – 1.90 ct. Total diamond weight – 1.02 ct.
Diamond, 14k Gold
Rare Bi-Color Tourmaline with Diamonds Paradizia Ring
By Paradizia
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
Description Bi-color Tourmaline Featuring a 10.6-carat bi-color tourmaline accented with .73 carats of diamonds, this ring blends luxury with modern ease. Crafted in 14k yellow gold ...
14k Gold, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
Radiant Statement Fancy blue Rare Fancy-Color Splendour Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Radiant, statement ring, diamond ring. Created for those who prefer quiet power—brilliance without chaos.
Yellow Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Rare Green Tourmaline 31.60 Carats with Diamonds Paradizia Ring
By Paradizia
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
Description Impressive, large, brilliant flawless rare-color Green Tourmaline with diamonds ring. Item # R165 Materials and Weight Green Tourmaline, 20.4 x 15.3 x 12mm, modified eme...
Diamond, Tourmaline, 14k Gold, White Gold
$14,000Sale Price|50% Off
NWT $28, 000 Rare 18KT Gold Rare Fancy Lightening Ridge Black Opal Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
Ring consists of a Rare Fine Magnificent Rare Lightening Ridge Black Opal surrounded with Gorgeous Glittering Diamonds.
Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, Gold, 18k Gold
$16,800Sale Price|60% Off
NWT $42, 000 Rare Important Fancy 18KT Gold Yellow Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Rare 18KT Gold Rare Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring. Beautifully comprised of a Finely Set Yellow Diamond surrounded by Glittering Diamonds!!
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$6,250Sale Price|50% Off
NWT $12, 500 Rare Important 18KT Gold Black Diamond Heart Diamond Ring Band
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Rare 18KT Gold Rare Fancy HEART Diamond and Black Diamond Ring.
Diamond, Black Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
3.08ct GIA unheated sapphire PADPARADSCHA diamond engagement ring RARE sapphire
Located in Jupiter, FL
A cocktail ring with a large sapphire at 3.08 carats and 1.33 carats of diamonds in platinum.
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Rare Customize Ruby Pink Sapphire Diamond White Gold Ring
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Necklace and Earrings Available) Diamond 1-RND-0,03-G/VS2A Diamond 8-RND-0,7-G/VS2A Ruby 8-0,09ct Pink Sapphire 19-0,23ct Weight 2.41 grams Size 16...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, 14k Gold
Rare Orange Sapphire and Diamond Ring, 3.23ct, 18k Gold, Asia
Located in Buckingham , Buckinghamshire
A SIGNIFICANT DEEP ORANGE SAPPHIRE & DIAMOND HALO RING — 3.23ct CENTRE A commanding and exceptionally rare example of an imperial-orange padparadscha-tone sapphire, securely set in ...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Georgian Diamond Rare Navette Cluster Ring 18 KT/Silver
Located in Napoli, IT
This unique Diamond navette ring is 1800/30 ca Gorgeously hand made during the time of solid 18 Kt gold/silveru Charming flat navette shaped head composed by rose cut Diamonds givin...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Silver
$3,450Sale Price|40% Off
NWT $5, 750 Rare Important 18KT Black Diamond Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring Band
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Rare 18KT Gold Rare Fancy Yellow Diamond Black Diamond Ring.
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Black Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,795Sale Price|20% Off
Rare Black White Diamond White 14k Gold Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
White Gold 14K Ring (Matching Earrings Available) Diamond 20-RND-0,31-G/VS1A Diamond 15-RND-0,18-G/VS1A Diamond 122-RND-0,36-G/VS1A Size 6 Weight 7,24 grams It is our honor to ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Rare Post-Medieval Diamond and Enamel Ring, circa 1550-1650
Located in London, GB
Rare Post-Medieval Diamond and Enamel Ring. Set with a square table cut diamond in a closed back bezel setting, to an exceptional solitaire design featuring intricate enamel detailin...
Diamond, Enamel
Rare GIA Certified Burma Cabochon Sapphire Diamond Platinum Ring Size 6.5 Ring
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
In conclusion, a GIA-certified Burma cabochon sapphire ring is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a rare treasure that embodies luxury, rarity, and timeless elegance.
Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, Diamond, Platinum
Rare Tiffany & Co. Fine Green Emerald & Diamond Platinum & Gold Cluster Ring
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Tiffany & Co. Vivid Green Emerald & Diamond 950 Platinum & 18k Yellow Gold Ring.
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Peachy Sapphire Diamond ring 18KT white gold RARE royal luxury engagement ring
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This ring is beyond stunning! Its gentle and elegant on one side and royal and luxurious on the other. This ring is sparkling with 1.50 carats of diamonds and a gentle sparkle from t...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Light Pink Sapphire Diamond ring 18KT gold Rare Pastel engagement ring Baguette
Located in Boca Raton, FL
What an incredible piece! Made with 2 carats light pink natural sapphire and 18KT rose gold and stunning fine quality diamonds, its so different and so incredibly gentle! The ring is...
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold
$10,000Sale Price|60% Off
NWT $25, 000 Rare Important Fancy 18KT Gold Yellow Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Rare 18KT Gold Rare Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring. Beautifully comprised of a Finely Set Yellow Diamond surrounded by Glittering Diamonds!!
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$9,000Sale Price|60% Off
NWT $22, 500 Rare Important Fancy 18KT Gold Yellow Diamond Ring
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Rare 18KT Gold Rare Fancy Diamond Ring Band. Beautifully comprised of Finely Set Glittering Diamonds!!
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Blue Sapphire & Diamond Fleurette Flower Ring
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
A rare and top grade Van Cleef & Arpels Fleurette ring.
Diamond, White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,200,000 / item
13-Carat D Flawless Diamond Ring GIA Certified Ultra-Rare Investment
Located in Mumbai, IN
This extraordinary 13-carat D Flawless diamond ring represents the highest echelon of natural diamond beauty.
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold
$120,000Sale Price|20% Off
Muzo Emerald diamond ring 18KT RARE GRS certified Muzo green
Located in Boca Raton, FL
A very rare emerald Muzo green emerald certified by GRS weighing 10.18ct, made in 18KT white gold with natural emeralds and diamonds in stunning pave design.
Diamond, Emerald
Rare Vintage Bvlgari Astrea Pavé Diamond 18k White Gold Bypass Ring
By Bulgari
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Bvlgari Astrea Pavé Diamond 18k White Gold Bypass Ring.
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA Rare 4.24 Ct. Fine Colombian Emerald & Diamond Platinum Ring
Located in Honolulu, HI
Rare 4.24 ct. Fine Colombian Emerald & Diamond Platinum Ring With GIA Report.
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
2.54tcw 14K Sugarloaf Cabochon Emerald & Diamond Cluster Ring - Rare Design
Located in Jupiter, FL
Indulge in unparalleled glamour with our exquisite emerald and diamond cocktail ring, featuring a captivating Sugarloaf-cut emerald bezel-set at its center, commanding attention with...
Diamond
Extremely Rare, Georgian Turquoise and Diamond Fede Ring, circa 1750
Located in London, GB
Extremely Rare, Georgian turquoise and diamond fede ring. Composed of two joined hands set with sixty four round cabochon turquoises in closed back grain settings with an approximate...
Diamond, Turquoise
13.05 Carat Cushion Statement Fancy Yellow Rare Fancy-Color Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 13.05 carats, cushion, statement ring, diamond ring. A serious diamond ring with disciplined selection—meant to read clean at normal viewing distance.
Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
5.1 Carat Cushion Statement Fancy Yellow Rare Fancy- Splendour Diamond Ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 5.1 carats, cushion, statement ring, diamond ring. Created for those who prefer quiet power—brilliance without chaos.
Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
$4,265Sale Price|20% Off
Rare Black White Diamond White 14k Gold Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
White Gold 14K Ring (Same Rung with Cognac Diamonds Available) Diamond 143-RND-1,93-G/VS1A Size 7 Weight 4,88 grams It is our honor to create fine jewelry, and it’s for that rea...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$4,265Sale Price|20% Off
Rare Cognac White Diamond White 14k Gold Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
White Gold 14K Ring (Same Rung with Black Diamonds Available) Diamond 143-RND-1,94-G/VS1A Size 6.8 Weight 4,64 grams It is our honor to create fine jewelry, and it’s for that r...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
3.36 Carat Cushion Statement Fancy Yellow Rare Fancy-Color Diamond ring
Located in Mumbai, IN
Approximately 3.36 carats, cushion, statement ring, diamond ring. Built for clients who judge a ring in motion, not only in perfect studio light.
Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
Rare Vintage Cartier Pavé Diamond Mimi 950 Platinum Band Dome Ring 49
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Pavé Diamond 950 Platinum Mimi Band Ring.
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
Hancocks 2.01carat Rare Vintage Carre Cut Diamond Platinum Solitaire Ring
By Hancocks
Located in London, GB
Description An elegant step cut diamond ring by Hancocks, set to the centre with a beautiful vintage Carré cut diamond weighing 2.01cts and of D colour and VVS1 clarity in double cor...
Diamond, Platinum
12.50 Carat Burma Ruby Ring. Rare Natural Cushion Cut Ruby Diamond Platinum Ring
Located in New York, NY
Carat Weight: Approx 12.90 Carats Stone Cut: Cushion Cut Stone: Ruby Jewelry Type: Engagement Ring Jewelry Style: Prong Set Ring Metal: Platinum Ring Size: 6.75 US, Resizable A tru...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
$5,750Sale Price|50% Off
NWT $11, 500 Rare Important 18KT 5 Row Black Diamond White Diamond Ring Band
Located in New York, NY
The Following Item we are offering is a Rare 18KT Gold Rare Fancy FIVE ROW Black Diamond White Diamond Ring.
Diamond, White Diamond, Black Diamond, 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.”
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The vintage bombé ring is bursting with color and timeless style.
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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.