Ruby Rings Inexpensive
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Antique Late 19th Century Unknown Victorian Engagement Rings
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
2010s Italian Modern Engagement Rings
Diamond, Spinel, 18k Gold, White Gold
Finding the Right rings for You
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.
- What do ruby rings symbolize?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023What ruby rings symbolize is largely a matter of individual interpretation. Some people associate rubies with passion, while others believe the gemstones signify wealth or protection from evil. On 1stDibs, shop a range of ruby gemstone rings.
- Are ruby rings expensive?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021While some rubies can be very expensive due to their deep color, shine and durability, they are less expensive than diamonds of the same size. As a result they can be a popular alternative to diamonds for an engagement ring. Find plenty of ruby rings on 1stDibs today.
- What does a ruby ring symbolize?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021A ruby ring symbolizes love, especially passionate love. A ruby ring also tends to carry connotations such as wealth and success. Find a range of antique and vintage ruby rings on1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What a ruby engagement ring means is largely a matter of personal interpretation. Some people believe rubies represent love, passion and desire, but historically, the gemstone meant nobility and courage. The gem is also the birthstone for July. Find a selection of ruby gemstone rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Yes, rubies are good for engagement rings. The stone's rarity, beauty, and durability make it a prized gem. These red gemstones represent romance, wealth, and success -- perfect for celebrating an engagement.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021How much a red ruby ring is worth will depend on certain quality factors. High-quality ruby rings can range in price from anywhere between $12 to $1,600. The value of a ruby will increase owing to color. Find a collection of red ruby rings on 1stDibs today.
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