GIA Certified Ruby and Diamond Cocktail Ring Yellow and White Gold, 4.61 Carats
By Sarosi By Timeless Gems
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The diamonds are set in bright white gold which highlights the ruby and rich yellow gold beautifully.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Diamond & Ruby Art Deco Style 14K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Antique inspired diamond and ruby ring in solid white gold displays a rare, handcrafted design.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
$6,150Sale Price / item|25% Off
Ralph Masri Andromeda 18kt White Gold Diamond Ruby Ring
By Ralph Masri
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Statement 18kt white gold ring with diamonds and rubies from Ralph Masri's Andromeda collection, inspired by the stars, galaxies and constellations.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$4,237Sale Price / item|25% Off
Ralph Masri Andromeda 18kt White Gold Diamond Ruby Ring
By Ralph Masri
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Captivating 18kt white gold ring with diamonds and rubies from Ralph Masri's Andromeda collection, inspired by the stars, galaxies and constellations.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ruby Ring Ruby 6.8 Carat in 18 Carat White Gold Triangle Diamonds
Located in Paris, FR
18K White Gold Ruby Ring and Diamonds 18K white gold ring set with a large composite ruby of 6.80 Carats set with 4 double claws supported on either side by a Triangle-shaped diamo...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
10K White Gold 5X3MM Oval Red Ruby and Diamond Accent Halo Ring
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and radiant, this exquisite ring is a symphony of color and light, masterfully crafted from rhodium-plated 10K white gold to ensure an enduring gleam.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 10k Gold, Gold
10K White Gold 5X3MM Oval Red Ruby and Diamond Accent Halo Ring
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and radiant, this exquisite ring is a symphony of color and light, masterfully crafted from rhodium-plated 10K white gold to ensure an enduring gleam.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 10k Gold, Gold
10K White Gold 5X3MM Oval Red Ruby and Diamond Accent Halo Ring
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and radiant, this exquisite ring is a symphony of color and light, masterfully crafted from rhodium-plated 10K white gold to ensure an enduring gleam.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 10k Gold, Gold
10K White Gold 5X3MM Oval Red Ruby and Diamond Accent Halo Ring
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and radiant, this exquisite ring is a symphony of color and light, masterfully crafted from rhodium-plated 10K white gold to ensure an enduring gleam.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 10k Gold, Gold
10K White Gold 5X3MM Oval Red Ruby and Diamond Accent Halo Ring
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and radiant, this exquisite ring is a symphony of color and light, masterfully crafted from rhodium-plated 10K white gold to ensure an enduring gleam.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 10k Gold, Gold
10K White Gold 5X3MM Oval Red Ruby and Diamond Accent Halo Ring
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and radiant, this exquisite ring is a symphony of color and light, masterfully crafted from rhodium-plated 10K white gold to ensure an enduring gleam.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 10k Gold, Gold
Orianne 18K White Gold Pear Cut Ruby and Round Diamond Double Halo Ring
By Orianne Collins
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Designer: Orianne Material: 18K white gold Ruby: 1 pear cut= 1.01ct Diamonds: 88 round cut= 0.31cttw Color: G Clarity: SI1 Size: 6.0 (complimentary sizing available) Dimensions: the...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
10K White Gold 5X3MM Oval Red Ruby and Diamond Accent Halo Ring
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and radiant, this exquisite ring is a symphony of color and light, masterfully crafted from rhodium-plated 10K white gold to ensure an enduring gleam.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 10k Gold, Gold
18 Karat White Gold 6.85 Carat Ruby and Diamond Eternity Band Ring
By Gems Paradise
Located in Jaipur, IN
18 Karat White Gold 6.85 Carat Ruby and Diamond Eternity Band Ring This sensational ruby and diamond band is exquisite.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Customisable Modern Ruby White Diamond White Gold Star Spiritual Ring
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Necklace Available) Size 16.2 Diamond 1-Round 57-0,05-4/6A Diamond 20-Round 57-0,18-4/6A Diamond 11-Round 57-0,03-4/6A Ruby 28-Round-0,29 Т(5)/3C Weigh...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold
$4,240Sale Price|20% Off
Suzy Levian 14 Karat White Gold Pear-Cut Ruby and White Diamond Engagement Ring
By Suzy Levian
Located in Great Neck, NY
Dazzle yourself or your loved one with this fabulous ruby and 14K white gold engagement or promise ring.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$4,240Sale Price|20% Off
Suzy Levian 14 Karat White Gold Pear-Cut Ruby and White Diamond Engagement Ring
By Suzy Levian
Located in Great Neck, NY
Dazzle yourself or your loved one with this fabulous ruby and 14K white gold engagement or promise ring.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Ruby Ring 2.36 K in 18K White Gold, Diamonds
Located in Paris, FR
2.36 carat ruby and diamond ring in 18 carat white gold in skirted shape. 18-carat white gold, ruby and diamond ring holding a 2.36-carat ruby in its center surrounded by Bague...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, White Gold
Baguette Cut Rubies & Diamond Statement Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Houston, TX
Baguette Cut Rubies & Diamond Statement Ring in 18K White Gold Bold and elegant 18K white gold band featuring five natural baguette-cut rubies accented by round brilliant-cut natura...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$3,200Sale Price|20% Off
Ring 18kt White Gold gem quality Ruby Cabochon & Diamonds
Located in Miami, FL
A ring made of 18kt gold with a center ruby cabochon of extra quality, surrounded by round diamonds, sounds like a stunning and luxurious piece of jewelry.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
Vintage Ruby and Diamond Cluster Ring in Yellow and White Gold
Located in MONTMORENCY, FR
Step into the elegance of yesteryear with this captivating vintage ring. Expertly crafted from yellow and white 18K gold (750‰), this piece features a striking synthetic ruby of appr...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Solid 18K White Gold Natural Ruby and Diamond Floral Cluster Ring
Located in Zurich, CH
A beautifully crafted vintage ruby and diamond ring in 18K white gold, showcasing an elegant floral-inspired design rich in colour and character.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold
Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds, Diamonds, 14 Karat Rose and White Gold Ring
Located in Marcianise, CE
Gorgeous retrò ring in 14 karat rose gold structure mounted qith a gold flower in the central part studded with an emerald surrounded by diamonds. Around, leaves of sapphires and tw...
Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold
Large Ruby Diamond 18k White Gold Floral Cocktail Ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A large and impressive 18k white gold flower set with gem rubies and diamonds!
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
2.40Cts Ruby & 2.15Cts Diamond Cocktail Ring 18K White Gold
Located in New York, NY
Mounted in fine 18k white gold. Diamond quality: E-F with VS clarity.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
18K White Gold 0.48ct Diamond and Ruby Square Halo Cocktail Ring MF04-062926
By LB Exclusive
Located in Southampton, PA
A commanding cocktail ring in 18K white gold, centering a vivid oval ruby of approximately 1.97 carats within a geometric square halo of round brilliant diamonds totaling 0.48 carats...
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, 18k Gold
18 Carat White Gold Ruby with Diamond Cocktail Ring
By La Fleur Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ruby use 6.10 ct, Diamond 0.66 ct F VS quality, the setting made in 18karat White gold.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Oval Ruby and Diamond Classic Engagement Ring in 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Jaipur, IN
A simple and chic engagement ring with a Ruby Oval centre and a Diamond Halo around, beautifully set in 18K White Gold.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$3,375Sale Price|25% Off
Ruby and Diamond Art Deco Style Dinner Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ring Information Style: Art-deco Metal: 18K White Gold Weight: 6.11 g.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
From $3,640 / item
Spectrum 18K White Gold Oval-Cut Natural Ruby and Diamond Statement Ring
By Spectrum Jewels
Located in Deira, Dubai
Design Style: Oval-Cut Ruby and Marquise-Cut Diamond Statement Ring Item Code :- SER-24073 Gross Wt. :- 3.37 gm 18k White Gold Wt. :- 2.67 gm Natural Diamond Wt. :- 0.43 Ct. ( AVERAG...
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
1.12 Carat Ruby and 1.33 Carat Diamond 18k White Gold Cocktail Engagement Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning, fine and impressive vintage 1.12 carat ruby and 1.33 carat diamond, 18 karat white gold cocktail engagement ring; part of our varied range of vintage ruby rings.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
18K White Gold Diamond and Ruby Orchid Cocktail Ring The Empress Orchid
By Konforti Jewelry
Located in ראשון לציון, IL
Each piece is entirely handcrafted and can be customized in diamond specifications, gold finish, and ring size upon request.
Diamond, Ruby, Rose Gold, White Gold, Rhodium
$2,400Sale Price|25% Off
Ruby and Diamond Art Deco Style Engagement Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ring Information Style: Art-deco Metal: 14K White Gold Total weight: 4.35 g.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, 14k Gold
Diamond Baguette Ruby Openwork Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Beautifully balanced with intricate Open Work Ring detailing, this Diamond Ruby Ring showcases brilliant diamonds accented by vivid Baguette Ruby gemstones in 18K white gold.
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
1.65 Carat Natural Ruby Diamond White Gold Bridal Ring
By DGI
Located in Los Angeles, CA
1.65 Carat Natural Ruby Diamond White Gold Engagement Ring This ring has a 1.07 Carat Oval Cut Burmese Ruby that is set in the center and is surrounded by Natural Round Cut Diamonds...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Artisan Bypass Emerald And Ruby Ring With Diamond In 18K White Gold
By Artisan NYC
Located in New York, NY
Description This vibrant bypass ring by Artisan features a 1.69ct emerald-cut emerald and a 1.01ct pear ruby, accented by 0.14ct of sparkling diamonds and set in 4.473g of 18K white ...
Emerald, Ruby, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Burma Ruby and Diamond Ring by Péclard in 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Lucerne, CH
Flanked by two oval-shaped equally lively rubies of approximately 1.00 carat each. The setting is artfully crafted in 18 karat white gold and set with 104 brilliant-cut diamonds of F...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$9,600Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage Ruby and Diamond Dome Cocktail Ring in 18K Yellow and White Gold
Located in Chicago, IL
Radiant and bold, this vintage ruby and diamond cocktail ring embodies timeless glamour and fine craftsmanship.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Ruby and Diamond Art Deco Style Floral Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ring Information Style: Art-deco Metal: 14K White Gold Total weight: 3.16 g.
Ruby, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Handcraft Ruby 18 Karat White Gold Diamonds Engagement Ring
By SCALA GIOIELLI
Located in Marcianise, IT
For any problems related to some materials contained in the items that do not allow shipping and require specific documents that require a particular period, please contact the selle...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Snake Animal Black & White Diamond Ruby White Shell 18K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Dimensions: 2.50x3.90x3.10cm Color: 18K White Gold Materials: "99 Black Diamonds 1.46 CT 63 White Diamonds 0.89 CT 2 Ruby 0.07 CT 4 White Shell 0.61 CT 18KW 7.00 GM (WETT)" 18K Gold...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$4,960Sale Price|20% Off
Ruby Diamond Ring 18 Karat White Gold Cocktail Ring Natural Untreated Ruby Ring
Located in Jupiter, FL
Stunning ruby & diamond cocktail ring made with 100% natural ruby and diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Natural Ruby and Diamond Halo Ring 2.51 cttw in 18K White Gold
Located in La Jolla, CA
Natural Ruby & Diamond Halo Ring in 18K White Gold Beautiful Ruby and Diamond Halo Ring features a Vibrant red 1.94 carat Oval shaped Ruby in the center surrounded by a halo of pave...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
IGI Certified 2.98 Carat Ruby and Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
Set in premium 18K White Gold (stamped "G750"), the cool white metal provides a magnificent contrast that amplifies the intense red hue of the Ruby.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamonds Ruby Sapphires 18 Karat White Gold Cocktail Ring
By SCALA GIOIELLI
Located in Marcianise, IT
This exquisite ring is a timeless piece of fine jewelry, crafted in 18kt white gold and designed for those who appreciate elegance, character, and refined craftsmanship.
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ruby with Diamond Ring set in 18K White Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ruby 14.57 carats with Diamond 0.55 carat Ring set in 18K White Gold Settings Width: 1.5 cm Length: 2.1 cm Ring Size: 52 Total Weight: 9.21 grams "We first opened doors in 1980 w...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
18K Gold Ruby and Diamond Marquise Ring
Located in MONTMORENCY, FR
🔹 Specifications Metal: 18K yellow gold Stones: Rubies and diamonds Total Weight: 4.5 g Ring Size: FR 56 (US approx. 7.5) Resizable: Yes
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
Larry Jewelry 1.45ct Ruby & Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
By Larry Jewelry
Located in רמת גן, IL
A bold fusion of color and sparkle—this designer ring by Larry Jewelry features 9 marquise-cut rubies totaling 1.15ct in a rich purple hue, accented by 30 round brilliant natural dia...
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, 18k Gold
GIA Unheated Burma Ruby Oval and White Diamond Ring in 18K Gold and Platinum
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Gorgeous GIA 0.90 ct. unheated Burma ruby oval with good quality white diamond rounds.
White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Platinum
$3,900Sale Price|25% Off
Diamond and Ruby Art Deco Style Dinner Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ring Information Style: Art-deco Metal: 18K White Gold Total weight: 4.34 g.
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, 18k Gold
Burma Ruby, Diamond and White Gold Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Set with an oval-cut ruby weighing approximately 1.65 carats, the frame and shoulders accented by round diamonds, in 18k white gold, size 5 3/4 With report 5211472392 dated 19 Februa...
$3,450Sale Price|25% Off
Diamond and Ruby Art Deco Style Engagement Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ring Information Style: Art-deco Metal: 14K White Gold Total weight: 5.32 g.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
MOISEIKIN 18K White Gold Ruby Diamond Floral Ring, Contemporary Design
By MOISEIKIN
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Made in 18K white gold, this ring features vivid Burmese rubies and high-quality diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Monkey Brown & White Diamond Ruby 18K Rose Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Dimensions: 2.05x1.18x2.95cm Color: 18K Rose Gold Materials: "62 Brown Diamonds 1.33 CT 13 White Diamonds 0.06 CT 2 Ruby 0.06 CT 18KR 7.93 GM" 18K Gold & Precious Diamond & Gemstone...
White Diamond, Brown Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Lizard Brown & White Diamond Ruby 18K Rose Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Dimensions: 2.08x2.09x2.65cm Color: 18K Rose Gold Materials: "71 Brown Diamonds 1.34 CT 5 White Diamonds 0.06 CT 2 Ruby 0.03 CT 18KR 7.16 GM (WBTT)" 18K Gold & Precious Diamond & Ge...
White Diamond, Brown Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
4.50 Carats Natural Red Ruby and Diamond 14K Solid White Gold Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
4.50 Carats Natural Red Ruby and Diamond 14K Solid White Gold Ring Total Natural Red Ruby Weight is: Approx. 3.30 Carat Ruby Measures: Approx. 8.00 x 8.00mm Ruby treatment: Fractu...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
14K White Gold Ruby and Diamond Pave Band Ring, 0.90ct, USA Made
Located in Jupiter, FL
Created in solid 14 karat gold, this ring showcases numerous precious stones alternating from ruby to diamond.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
9.40 Carats Natural Red Ruby and Diamond 14K Solid White Gold Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
9.40 Carats Natural Red Ruby and Diamond 14K Solid White Gold Ring Total Natural Red Ruby Weight is: Approx. 8.40 Carat Ruby Measures: Approx. 13.00 x 11.00mm Ruby treatment: Frac...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
8.70 Carats Impressive Natural Red Ruby and Diamond 14K White Gold Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
8.70 Carats Impressive Natural Red Ruby and Diamond 14K White Gold Ring Suggested Replacement Value $6,900.00 Total Natural Red Ruby Weight is: Approx. 7.50 Carats Ruby Treatment...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Stunning Diamond Multi Sapphire Ruby 14K White Gold Ring
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
14K White Gold Ring Matching different style Earrings Available Diamond 60-0.15 ct Blue Sapphire 10-0,45 ct Ruby 4-0,21 ct Pink Sapphire 6-0,19 ct Green Orange Sapphire 6-0,32 c...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, White 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.