$1,009Sale Price / item|60% Off
Oval cabochon ruby 14k gold ring
By Daizy Jewellery
Located in Istanbul, TR
Diamond cut ruby ring. Ruby engagement ring. Wave band ring.
Ruby, Topaz, 14k 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
$30,400Sale Price|20% Off
GIA 3.36 Carat Emerald Natural Ruby 18K Two-Tone Women's Trilogy Diamond Ring
Located in San Francisco, CA
This 18K Two-Tone handcrafted Women's trilogy ring showcases a one-of-a-kind GIA Certified Emerald Cut Ruby accompanied by two (2) Trapezoid Cut diamonds on each side.
Ruby, 18k Gold
Unheated Red Ruby Stone 2.01 cts in 18K White Gold Ring w Diamonds / GIA Report
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The best things in life are everlasting. And our gemstones will never fade, just like your love for each other. Live, love and laugh with this stunning dainty ruby ring. With GIA and...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
14K 1.57ct Ruby Ring GIA Burmese Pigeon Blood
Located in Big Bend, WI
Top color GIA natural Burmese vivid red pigeon’s blood ruby weighing 1.57 carats set in 14K white gold with 1.5 carats of round diamonds.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$963Sale Price / item|44% Off
Ruby and Tanzanite 14k Gold Ring
By Daizy Jewellery
Located in Istanbul, TR
Tanzanite gold ring. Rubies, tanzanites and diamonds ring. Flower gold ring.
Ruby, Tanzanite, 14k Gold
14K Yellow Gold Ruby, Opal and Diamond Ring
Located in Hicksville, NY
Year: 1940s Item Details: Ring Size: 8 (Sizable) Metal Type: 14K Yellow Gold [Hallmarked, and Tested] Weight: 3.1 grams Diamond Details: .10ct, Transitional Round, J color, I1 Clarit...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIL Certified 0.77 Carat Ruby Ring
Located in บางรัก, TH
18kt white gold ruby ring with diamonds Gold colour & karat: White gold 18kt Weight: 3.953 grams Set with- Stone type: Ruby Shape: Octogon Carat: 0.77 (3 Pcs) Col...
Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
$280,000Sale Price|20% Off
SSEF Certified 7.03 Carat Mozambique No-Heat Ruby Platinum Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
SSEF Certified 7.03 Carat Mozambique No-Heat Ruby Platinum Ring with Diamond Half Moons Description: A rare and exquisite ruby and diamond ring, crafted in platinum and centered wit...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Platinum
GIA Certified 4.63ct Burma Cabochon Ruby Platinum Engagement Ring
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Flanking the magnificent ruby are sparkling baguette diamonds, totaling 0.80 carats, meticulously set to enhance the overall brilliance of the ring.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Late Deco Old Cut Diamond and Ruby Cluster Ring, circa 1930s
Located in London, GB
This sensational 1930s era diamond and ruby cluster ring will always be in vogue!
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Circa 1900s 14K Yellow Gold Opal, Ruby, and Old Mine Diamond Ring
Located in Hicksville, NY
Circa 1900s 14K Yellow Gold Opal, Ruby, and Old Mine Diamond Ring Item Details: Year: 1900s Ring Size: 7 Metal Type: 14K Yellow Gold [Hallmarked, and Tested] Weight: 3.5 grams Opal...
Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$200,000Sale Price|20% Off
GRS Certified 5 Carat Oval BURMA Ruby no heat Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
Adding to the grandeur, the ruby is flanked by two exquisite Cadillac-cut diamonds, totaling 0.60 carats.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
$80,000Sale Price|20% Off
Dunaigre Certified 4 Carat Vivid Red Ruby Platinum Three-Stone Ring
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
Set in handcrafted platinum, the ruby is flanked by two brilliant white shield-cut diamonds, expertly selected to enhance the center stone’s intensity and regal presence.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Dalben 1.55 Carat Hart Shape Slice Cut Ruby Gold Ring
By Laura Dalben
Located in Como, IT
Dalben design 1,55 carat hart shape slice cut ruby ring mounted in 18 kt white gold , 4 flower shape milligrana bezel set with round shape rose cut diamonds on the two sides total ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$12,846Sale Price|50% Off
Ring Burmese Unheated Ruby natural Gold Promise Engagement ring
Located in Berlin, DE
An engagement 18K white gold ring with natural Ruby and Diamonds with Jewelry ruby origin - Burma ruby measurements - 0.12 х 0.2 х 0.28 in / 3 х 5 х 7 mm ruby weight - 1.05 carats 1...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Natural Diamond Ring 18 Karat White Gold Synthetic Ruby Colour Engagement Ring
Located in Antwerpen, BE
The addition of Synthetic Red Color Rubies and Diamonds 18kt White Gold Ring enhances its allure and symbolism, making it an even more enchanting choice for both engagement and anniv...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$240,000Sale Price|20% Off
Exceptional Rarity 5.00 Carat PEAGON'S BLOOD AWARD Mozambique Ruby GIA Certified
Located in Chicago, IL
🔹 Center Stone: 5.00 ct Unheated Mozambique Ruby 🔹 Color: Vivid Red – Pigeon’s Blood Award 🔹 Certification: GIA 🔹 Side Stones: Trillion-Cut Diamonds 🔹 Metal: Platinum This je...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Victorian Burmese ruby and diamond three stone ring, circa 1890.
Located in London, GB
Victorian Burmese ruby and diamond three stone ring. Set to centre with a cushion shape old cut natural unenhanced Burmese ruby in an open back claw setting with an approximate weigh...
Vivid Pigeon Blood Red Perfectly Clean 1.21 ct Unheated Burma Mogok Ruby Ring
Located in Warren, NJ
This exquisite ring features a 1.21 CT unheated Burma Mogok Pigeon Blood Vivid Pure Red Ruby as its stunning centerpiece, accented with sparkling diamonds set in platinum.
Diamond, Ruby
$240,000Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 5 Carat Unheated/Untreated Ruby from Mozambique
By Antinori Fine Jewels
Located in Chicago, IL
A truly magnificent classic ring. This spectacular investment grade three stone engagement ring features a incredible cushion cut 5 carat pure red ruby. Exquisite 5.02-Carat Unhe...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum
1940s 14K Yellow Gold Ruby, Sapphire and Diamond Flip Ring
Located in Hicksville, NY
Year: 1940s Item Details: Ring Size: 7.25 Metal Type: 14k Yellow Gold [Hallmarked, and Tested] Weight: grams Diamond Details: Side Stone Details: Ruby, Sapphire and Diamonds.
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$28,800Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Certified 2 Carat No Heat Burma Ruby Art Deco Ring
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
Condition: Very Good Era: Art Deco Year: 1915-1935 Metal: Platinum Gemstone: Natural No Heat Burma Ruby Carat Weight: 1.96 Cut: Oval Color: Purple-Red Clarity: Transparent Diamonds...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Baguette Diamond Halo GIA Certified 5.08 Carat Oval Burma Ruby Engagement Ring
By DeKaraDesign
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Stones- GIA Certified Oval Ruby 5.08 Carats 48 Baguette Diamonds, 28 Round Diamonds F-G Color VS1-SI1 Clarity 2.67 Carats.
Estate 18K Yellow Gold Levian Ruby, Sapphire and Diamond Ring - VHK#449B
Located in Hicksville, NY
Estate 18K Yellow Gold Levian Ruby, Sapphire and Diamond Ring - VHK#449B Item Details: Year: 1990s Ring Size: 7 (Sizable) Metal Type: 18k [Hallmarked, and Tested] Weight: 8.9 grams ...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$160,000Sale Price|20% Off
SSEF, GIA, and GRS Certified 2.57 Carat Burmese Ruby Cocktail Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
The diamonds enhance the ruby’s rich hue and create a dazzling effect, while the platinum setting provides both elegance and durability.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
GIA Certified 2.01 Carat Ruby No Heat Scintillating Red Classical Solitaire Ring
By Malpani Jewels
Located in Hung Hom, HK
Experience timeless elegance with this GIA-certified 2.01-carat Mozambique ruby solitaire ring. This rare and radiant gemstone, celebrated for its natural beauty, captivates with its...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
$3,840Sale Price|20% Off
GIA 18K 0.99 Ct Burma Pigeon Blood Red Ruby Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA 18K 0.99 Ct Burma Pigeon Blood Red Ruby Engagement Ring* GIA-certified Burma Pigeon Blood Red Ruby weighing 0.99 ct set on the 18K yellow gold band with natural round brilliant...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$4,000Sale Price|20% Off
GIA 18K 1.00 Ct Burma Pigeon Blood Red Ruby Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA 18K 1.00 Ct Burma Pigeon Blood Red Ruby Engagement Ring* GIA-certified Burma Pigeon Blood Red Ruby weighing 1.00 ct set on the 18K white gold band with natural round brilliant ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA Certified No Heat Star Ruby in Vintage Platinum Ring Signed Dreicer & Co.
By Dreicer & Co.
Located in Miami, FL
GIA certified no heat star ruby or Sri Lanka origin. Ring set in platinum with 54 single cut diamonds.
Diamond, Star Ruby, Ruby, Platinum
18K Rose Gold Conch Pearl, Ruby & Pink Sapphire Floral Ring
Located in New York, NY
Elegant 18K rose gold floral ring featuring a luminous conch pearl weighing 1.74 carats, accented by pink sapphires totaling 1.30 Carat Total Weight and rubies totaling 0.20 Carat T...
Diamond, Pearl, Pink Sapphire, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
GIA 18K Yellow Gold 1.08 Ct Burma Pigeon's Blood Ruby Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA 18K 1.08 Ct Burma Vivid Red Pigeon's Blood Ruby&Diamonds Engagement Ring* GIA-certified Burma Vivid Red ( Pigeon's Blood ) Ruby weighing 1.08 ct set on the 18K yellow gold ...
Ruby, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
2.01 Carat Natural Burmese Ruby Ring Set in Platinum Certified by GIA
Located in Tokyo, JP
A beautiful Engagement Ring featuring a 2.01 Carat, GIA Certified, Natural, Burmese Heated Ruby and 0.29 Carats of Round Brilliant Diamond Accents set in Platinum.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Platinum 1.02ct Unheated Ruby & 1.20cttw Old Cushion Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in Hicksville, NY
Circa 1920 - Platinum Art Deco 1.02ct Unheated Ruby & 1.20cttw Old Cushion Cut Diamond Engagement Ring - VEG#558 Ring Details: Size: 5.25 Metal Type: Platinum Weight: 3.3 g Gem S...
Trabert & Hoeffer with Mauboussin Burmese Ruby Cocktail Ring, circa 1940.
By Trabert & Hoeffer Mauboussin
Located in London, GB
Trabert & Hoeffer with Mauboussin Burmese ruby cocktail ring. Set with a cluster of ten oval cabochon cut natural unenhanced Burmese rubies in open back claw settings with a combined...
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Emerald and Ruby Engagement Bypass "Toi Et Moi" Ring Platinum
By Emeralds Maravellous
Located in Brunswick, ME
The gorgeous stones are further accented with round brilliant cut diamonds that are set at each side, adding an absolutely glamorous touch to the ring. 100% natural stones that origi...
Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, 18k Gold, Platinum
Platinum 1.02ct Unheated Ruby & 1.20cttw Old Cushion Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in Hicksville, NY
Size: 5.25 Metal Type: Platinum Weight: 3.3 g Gem Stone Details: Type: Ruby - Natural, Unheated Shape: Antique Cushion Color: Red Size: 1.14ct Diamond Details: Shape: Antique Cu...
Platinum
GRS Certified 1.50 Carat Burmese Ruby No Heat Pigeon Blood Ring in 18k Gold
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
The centre ruby has been set with four claw prongs. The ruby was unearthed from Burma - one of the oldest ruby mines in the world.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
$12,000Sale Price|20% Off
2.29 Carat Radiant Green Emerald and 1.02 Carat Blistering Red Ruby Ring
By Malpani Jewels
Located in Hung Hom, HK
2.29 carat of vivid green Emerald and 1.02 carat of vivid red ruby are accented by 1.86 carat of white brilliant round diamond.
Ruby, Emerald, White Diamond, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
GRS Certified 1.83 Carat Burmese Ruby No Heat Pigeon Blood Ring in 18k Gold
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
The centre ruby has been set with four claw prongs. The ruby was unearthed from Burma - one of the oldest ruby mines in the world.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
GRS Certified 1.38 Carat Burmese Ruby No Heat Pigeon Blood Ring in 18k Gold
By Rewa Jewellery
Located in Bangkok, TH
Surrounding the central ruby are supporting diamonds, totaling 0.65 carats.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
1.85 Carat Pear shape Ruby Ring in 14k White Gold
Located in NEW YORK, NY
A stunning well-crafted engagement ring showcasing a 1.85-carat pear shape Ruby. Set in a polished 14K White Gold mounting. Handcrafted in our New York City workshop. Style is avai...
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, 14k Gold
1.85 Carat Pear shape Ruby Ring in 14k Yellow Gold
Located in NEW YORK, NY
A stunning well-crafted engagement ring showcasing a 1.85-carat pear shape Ruby. Set in a polished 14K Yellow Gold mounting. Handcrafted in our New York City workshop. Style is ava...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Colombian Emerald and Ruby Bypass "Toi Et Moi" Ring
By Emeralds Maravellous
Located in Brunswick, ME
1 Pear shape 7.50x5.60mm Natural Unheated Ruby Pinkish -Red 1 Pear shape Natural AAA Colombian Emerald 8.42x5.80mm 18 Round brilliant cut diamonds Total gemstone weight 2.50 carats
Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Pla...
Pink Sapphire Ruby & Multi-Gemstone Lilly Flower Rose Gold Floral Design Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Dimensions: 2.20x2.80x2.80cm Color: 18K Rose Gold Materials: "9 Brown Diamonds 0.14 CT 9 White Diamonds 0.16 CT 14 Green Garnet 0.26 CT 105 Pink Sapphire 1.84 CT 47 Ruby 1.07 CT 1 To...
White Diamond, Brown Diamond, Ruby, Pink Sapphire, Tourmaline, 18k Gold,...
Fine Ruby and Emerald Bypass "Toi Et Moi" Engagement Ring
By Emeralds Maravellous
Located in Brunswick, ME
The gorgeous stones are further accented with round brilliant cut diamonds that are set at each side, adding an absolutely glamorous touch to the ring. 100% natural stones that origi...
Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum
Pink Sapphire Ruby & Multi-Gemstone Lilly Flower 18K Rose Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Dimensions: 2.00x2.30x2.40cm Color: 18K Rose Gold Materials: "2 Blue Sapphire 0.15 CT 31 Fancy Diamonds 0.25 CT 60 Green Garnet 0.47 CT 65 Pink Sapphire 0.60 CT 30 Ruby 0.21 CT 18KR ...
Diamond, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
GRS Cert. 2.18 Carat Natural Burmese, Pigeon's Blood Ruby Ring Set in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
A beautiful ring set in Platinum featuring a GRS Certified 2.18 Carat Natural, Burmese, Pigeon's Blood Ruby and 0.72 Carat Diamonds. Rubies are referred to as "Ratnaraj" in Sanskrit ...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Designer Roshe Jewels 14K White Gold 1.27ct Pear Cut Ruby Engagement Ring
By Roshe Jewels
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Designer Roshe Jewels 14K White Gold 1.27ct Pear Cut Ruby Engagement Ring This ring has a Pear Cut Ruby that measures at approximately 6 mm x 4 mm.
Diamond, Ruby, Pink Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
AIGS Certified 1.12 Carat Natural No Heat, Vivid Red Ruby Ring made in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
A beautiful Ring set in Platinum featuring a AIGS Certified 1.12 Carat Natural No Heat, Pigeon Blood Ruby and 0.48 Carat Diamonds. Rubies are referred to as "Ratnaraj" in Sanskrit me...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Ruby Blue Sapphire & Multi-Gemstone Lilly Flower Flower 18K Rose Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Dimensions: 2.30x2.00x2.70cm Color: 18K Rose Gold Materials: "1 Blue Sapphire 0.06 CT 7 Fancy Diamonds 0.14 CT 39 Green Garnet 0.36 CT 1 PE 0.27 CT (3.4MM) 170 Ruby 2.43 CT 18KR 9.20...
Diamond, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
GIA Certified 1.68 Carat Natural Round Brilliant Ruby Rose Gold Engagement Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Ladies 18K Rose Gold Natural Ruby and Diamond Ring (Size 5.75). The GIA certified Ruby weighs 1.68 carats and the color is "pigeon blood" variety.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Ruby and Sapphire Bypass "Toi Et Moi" Ring Engagement
By Emeralds Maravellous
Located in Brunswick, ME
1 round shape 5.2mm Natural Ruby 1 round shape Natural blue sapphire 5.2mm 28 Round brilliant cut diamonds **Made to order, custom options are available(Yellow, white 18K, 14K...
Diamond, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, ...
$39,200Sale Price|20% Off
Burma Ruby No-Heat 4.75 Carats Set in Vintage Platinum Mounting, Certified
Located in Northampton, MA
Three sleek tapered baguette diamonds and a pair of round brilliants compliment the ruby on either side.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Ruby faceted buff top 18 K white and yellow gold Engagement ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Ruby faceted buff top 18 K white and yellow gold Engagement ring with 78 white and 78 yellow diamonds.
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,400Sale Price|20% Off
GIA Afghanistan 0.59 Ct 18K Rose Gold Vivid Purplish Red Ruby Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA Afghanistan 0.59 Ct 18K Rose Gold Vivid Purplish Red Ruby Engagement Ring* GIA-certified natural Afghanistan vivid purplish red Ruby as the center stone weighing 0.59 ct set on...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$20,000Sale Price|20% Off
GIA 18K 2.57 Ct Kashmir Unheated Purple Red Ruby Art Deco Design Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA 18K 2.57 Ct Kashmir Unheated Purple Red Ruby Art Deco Design Engagement Ring* GIA-certified Kashmir unheated Purple Red Ruby weighing 2.57 ct set on the 18K white gold band wit...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
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.