Art Nouveau Ruby and Diamond Dress Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a truly outstanding ruby and diamond dress ring crafted during the Art Nouveau period.
Early 20th Century Art Nouveau Fashion Rings
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Nouveau Ruby and Diamond Dress Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a truly outstanding ruby and diamond dress ring crafted during the Art Nouveau period.
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990 Silver 925 Synthetic Ruby Cocktail Ring
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Super fun and unique vintage cocktail ring featuring an array of synthetic rubys offset by silver rhinestones and gold engravings.
Silver
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
Diamond & Ruby Eye Pave Set Double Headed Snake 18K Rose Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Finely detailed vintage style double headed snake curving design with curled over tail ring crafted in 18k rose gold.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Vintage Ruby and Diamond 18 Carat Gold 1/2 Eternity Band
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
This half eternity band holds five rich red square rubies totalling 10pts and in between these stones are diamonds measuring a total of approx 15pts. The band is modelled in 18ct go...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold
Vintage Retro Platinum Diamond and Ruby Eternity Wedding Band - Size 6 1/2
Located in Great Neck, NY
Beautiful Vintage Retro Platinum Diamond and Ruby Eternity Wedding Band - Size 6 1/2.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Vintage 1.54 Carat Cushion Cut Ruby in 14K Yellow Gold Wide Band
Located in Miami, FL
Wide frame natural ruby and diamond ring. Vintage, late 20th century origin.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,400 / item
Ruby Filigree Three Stone Ring in 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
The refined silhouette brings together rich color and delicate craftsmanship, creating a distinctive Ruby Filigree Ring inspired by enduring vintage romance.
Ruby, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
Antique 0.65 Carat Diamond and Ruby Three-Stone Ring
Located in London, GB
Colour: H, Clarity: VS Total Ruby Weight: Approx. 1.20ct (0.60ct each) Tested As: 18ct Gold & Platinum Box: The Vintage Jeweller Ring Box
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Diamond & Red Pink Ruby Art Deco Style Floral Halo White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Ring Information Style: Vintage Total weight: 4.00 g.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamond & Red Pink Ruby Floral Cluster Engagement 14K White Rose Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Look at this stunning ruby and diamond floral cluster ring! Set in rose gold, this vintage inspired ruby and diamond ring features a unique floral design.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold
Green Tourmaline Ruby & Diamond Art Deco Style Halo 14K Yellow Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
This amazing vintage inspired Tourmaline Ruby and Diamond Ring features a 1.43 Carat oval shaped green tourmaline wrapped in a halo of glittering diamonds and rubies.
Diamond, Ruby, Tourmaline, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
IGI Certified French Cocktail Ring 18kt Yellow/White Gold with Ruby and Diamonds
Located in Esch sur Alzette, Esch-sur-Alzette
Top Width: 0,8cm Top Length: 1cm Top Height: 0,5cm Band Width: 0,2cm This IGI Certified French Cocktail Ring is an elegant creation crafted in 18kt yellow and white gold, combining ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$4,350Sale Price|25% Off
Vintage Platinum 1.5 Carat Cushion Cut Ruby and 0.5 Carat Old Mine Cut Diamond R
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite platinum ring, dating back to the elegant Art Deco era of the 1920s, showcases a captivating design. At its heart lies a natural cushion-cut ruby, weighing approximate...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
10k Victorian Claw Set Ruby Ring. Twin gem bypass bow ring
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage from the 1960s Materials: Gold Gemstone: Ruby Gem Color: Red Band Color: Gold Style: Victorian Vintage ruby ring.
Round Ruby Diamond Art Deco Style Halo Set 14K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
This exquisite ring features a central iridescent opal embellished with pretty ruby stone and glittering diamonds.
Diamond, Opal, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
18k Two-Tone Burma Rose-Cut Ruby and Diamond Floral Halo Ring
Located in New York, NY
18k Two-Tone Burma Rose-Cut Ruby and Diamond Floral Halo Ring Description: This vintage-style cluster ring is crafted in solid 18k yellow and white gold.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified Thai No Heat Cushion-Cut Ruby and Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
GIA certified Thai no heat cushion brilliant cut ruby and diamond vintage cocktail ring, crafted in 14 karat yellow gold.
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1.50 Ct Red Ruby 1.60 Ct F VVS Diamond 18 Kt
Located in Napoli, IT
This very charming vintage ring is 1970 circa Skilfully hand crafted as unique of solid 18 Kt gold Marvelous chic design with octagonal head set with Ruby and Diamonds An exceptional...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
$39,200Sale Price|20% Off
Burma Ruby No-Heat 4.75 Carats Set in Vintage Platinum Mounting, Certified
Located in Northampton, MA
An enormous, spectacular four-carat cabochon-cut vivid pinkish-red no-heat Burma ruby commands attention in this extraordinary platinum Mid-century ring.
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
0.51 Carat Ruby and 0.39 Carat Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Eternity Ring Circa 1980
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A fine and impressive vintage 0.51 carat ruby and 0.39 carat diamond, 18 karat yellow gold full eternity ring; part of our diverse collection of vintage ruby rings.
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold
Vintage 9 Carat Gold Dearest Ring
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
Ring Size: L or 5 3/4 Width: 3mm Weight: 2g
Amethyst, Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Tourmaline, Gold, 9k Go...
Diamond Ruby & Black Onyx Art Deco Style Marquise Shape White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Unleash bold elegance with this exquisite Art Deco-inspired marquise shape ring. A striking combination of radiant diamonds, vivid rubies, and sleek black onyx creates a mesmerizing ...
Diamond, Onyx, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Victorian Natural Burmese Ruby and Diamond Three-Stone Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a gorgeous three-stone ring taken from the Victorian period. At the centre of the face we find an oval faceted ruby of Burmese origin.
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA 2.30 Carat Natural Red No Heat Ruby Diamonds Ring 18 Karat Unheated Cluster*
Located in New York, NY
Natural GIA "No Heat" Ruby Diamonds ring. Ruby No Heat Classic Vintage Cluster Deco Class.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,924Sale Price / item|20% Off
0.97 Ct Natural Ruby & 0.25 Ct Diamond Anniversary Ring in 14K Yellow Gold
By Spectrum Jewels
Located in Deira, Dubai
The split shank diamond design adds exceptional brilliance and contemporary luxury appeal while beautifully complementing the vivid ruby centerpiece. Inspired by the growing 2026 US...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
12.28 ctw Mid-Century Style No-Heat Burmese Ruby & Diamond Ring 18K Yellow Gold
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
A refined expression of vintage-inspired elegance, this mid-century style ring features a captivating cabochon-cut Burmese ruby, admired for its rich red hue and natural, untreated b...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 18KT Gold 4.68ct Pink Tourmaline Ring
Located in Braintree, GB
A vintage 18KT gold ring designed with a round pink tourmaline centre stone of approximately 4.68 carats, surrounded by rose cut diamonds in an openwork mount. The ring has an elegan...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 9 Carat Gold Dearest Ring
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
Made in London 1990. Ring Size: S or 9 Width: 4.5mm Weight: 1.8g
Amethyst, Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Tourmaline, Gold, 9k Go...
Art Deco Style Pink Red Ruby & Diamond 18K White Gold Dome Bombe Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
A bold ruby and diamond vintage inspired ring as it could be worn as a right hand ring or as engagement ring.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Red Pink Ruby & Diamond Pave Set Art Deco Style Cocktail White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
The overall marquise shape gives the ring a graceful vintage appeal, making it the perfect choice for those who appreciate bold color contrasts and classic luxury.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Gold Filigre indian Princess Ring
Located in West Hollywood, CA
indian antique Filigre work gold Princess Dome Ring with natural pearl, emerald and rubies. US size 7
Emerald, Freshwater Pearl, Ruby, 15k Gold
Vintage Multi Stone 9 Carat Gold Ring
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
This stylish ring holds Turquoise, Sapphires and Rubies. The gold has a rope twist effect and the stones are set in collections of 3. Ring Size: N or 6 3/4 Band Width: 14mm Weight:...
Ruby, Sapphire, Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold
Art Deco Style Round Diamond & Pink Red Ruby 18K White Gold Shield Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Rubies and diamonds are beautifully composed in this Art Deco style vintage ring.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamond Illusion Set & Red Ruby Art Deco Style Statement 14K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Step into a world of vintage sophistication with our breathtaking illusion set diamond and ruby Art Deco style engagement ring.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Oval Opal & Ruby and Diamond Art Deco Style Halo Set Yellow Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Step into a world of vintage elegance with our exquisite opal with ruby and diamond art deco style ring in yellow gold.
Diamond, Opal, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sculptural Vintage Inspired Ring with Precious Natural Gems
Located in Singapore, SG
This sculptural vintage-style ring is handcrafted in solid 18K gold and set with carefully curated natural precious gemstones, including a Burmese unheated ruby, Colombian emeralds, ...
Diamond, Ruby, Emerald, 18k Gold
18K Yellow Gold & Platinum GIA Oval Cabochon Ruby w/ Diamond Halo Cocktail Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
This is a truly breathtaking, GIA certified, genuine ruby vintage ring crafted in solid 18k yellow gold & platinum featuring an oval double cabochon cut ruby solitaire with an outsta...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
1990s 925 Silver Synthetic Ruby and Emerald Ring
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Do not miss out on this simply exquisite 1990s cocktail ring made from silver 925 and the most beautiful synthetic rubys and emeralds.
Silver
14.06 ctw No-Heat East African Cabochon Ruby and Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in Tysons, VA
A remarkable statement of rarity and refinement, this vintage style ring showcases a captivating 12.66 carat East African ruby in a smooth cabochon cut, celebrated for its rich red h...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Art Deco Style Ruby and Diamond Filigree Three Stone Ring in 9K Yellow Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Beautifully blending historical elegance with modern wearability, this vibrant vintage ruby ring is the ultimate romantic gesture.
Diamond, Ruby, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Pair of 18K Yellow Gold Tiffany Bands with Cabochon Rubies and Sapphires
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This tailored pair of vintage Tiffany & Company matching 18K yellow gold bands, set with fine quality natural rubies and blue sapphires, are an unusual offering from the maker. The ...
Ruby, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1970 Silver Plated Synthetic Ruby Ring
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Embrace the enchanting spirit of the 1970s with our exquisite Silver-Gold Plated Ring, adorned with three vibrant synthetic rubies and sparkling synthetic diamonds.
Silver Plate
Ruby Diamond Three Stone Ring in Solid 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Accented with delicate openwork and milgrain edging, this ruby diamond gold ring showcases pure vintage romance and regal brilliance.
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Ruby Diamonds Emerald Cut Band 2.85 CTTW 18 Karat Yellow Gold 9.5 Grams
By Harbor Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
18 Karat yellow gold 5 section band featuring alternating Rubies weighing 1.50 carats and Diamonds weighing 1.35 carats. More Vintage Bands in Stock Message for Pictures & Details.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
25 Carat Natural Lemon Quartz Vintage Ring 19 Karat Vintage Middle East 52 Gram*
Located in New York, NY
Egyptian Vintage Ring Lemon Quartz Cluster Ring 25ct. Brilliant Natural Lemon Quartz Oval Cut Clean Clarity Beautiful purple sparkles throughout Transparency A+ 21 x 12mm S...
Quartz, Ruby, Gold, Yellow Gold
Zolotas vintage diamond 18k yellow gold rams head ring
By Zolotas
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A ram's head, finely engraved with fur-like lines across the brow and muzzle, turns toward the viewer from the top of this ring, its horns rolling into a deep, ridged spiral while th...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Vintage Dome Ring Gold Gemstones Enamel Size 5.75
By Cartier
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A vintage Cartier dome band ring, crafted in 18k yellow gold and accented with rubies, sapphires, and diamonds.
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Enamel
Art Deco Style Diamond & Red Pink Ruby Cushion Shape Halo 18K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
This elegant vintage inspired engagement ring is beautifully designed to capture the chick style of the Art Deco era!
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Oval Shape White Opal & Ruby Halo and Diamond Art Deco Style Halo Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
This exquisite ring features a central iridescent oval cabochon opal embellished with pretty ruby stone and glittering diamonds.
Diamond, Opal, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Amethyst With Diamonds & Ruby 14k Gold Cocktail Ring circa 1960s
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This stunning Amethyst, Diamond, and Ruby 14k gold cocktail ring from the circa 1960s exudes vintage elegance and timeless sophistication.
Oval Shape Blue Topaz & Ruby Diamond Halo Art Deco Style 14K White Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Stunning vintage inspired white gold blue topaz with ruby and diamond set ring.
Diamond, Ruby, Blue Topaz, 14k Gold, White Gold
Natural Diamond Rubellite Ring 14K Gold Vintage Estate
By Estate Jewelry
Located in East Brunswick, NJ
Diamond Rubellite Ring 14K Gold Vintage Estate This lovely estate ring is finely crafted in solid 14K Yellow Gold and set with natural Earth mined Rubellite and diamonds. The cente...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Russian Diamond Cocktail Ring in 14K Rose Gold
By Hand Made
Located in New York, NY
Custom Made Russian Ring Material: 14K Rose Gold Condition: Pre-Owned Rose Cut Ruby: 1.20ctw Diamonds: 0.14ctw Clarity: SI1 Color: G Ring Dimension: Size: 7 Width: 9.4mm Band Width:...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
Slim French Cut Red Ruby Art Deco Style Channel Set Eternity Band 14K White Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
The natural French cut rubies run around the entire ring in an enclosed type of setting.
Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Estate Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond Band
Located in Hicksville, NY
Estate Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond Band - VHK#862B Item Details: Year: 1950s Ring Size: 7.5 Metal Type: 14K Yellow Gold [Hallmarked, and Tested] Weig...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18k Gold Round Lab Ruby Engraved Signet Ring circa 1970s
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This stunning 18k Gold Round Lab Ruby Engraved Signet Ring from the circa 1970s exudes vintage charm and timeless elegance.
Natural Rubellite Diamond Band Ring 18K Gold Vintage
By Estate Jewelry
Located in East Brunswick, NJ
Natural Rubellite Diamond Band Ring 18K Gold Vintage This vintage ring is made in solid 18K Yellow Gold. It has inscription inside of the shank dated 2.14.82. The center natural Ear...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 10k Yellow Gold Crest Craft US Army Airborne Ring
Located in New York, NY
This vintage military ring is crafted in 10k yellow gold and was produced by Crest Craft, featuring the U.S.
Ruby, 10k Gold, Yellow Gold
10k Honora Vintage Red Stone Floral Design Ring - VHK#59
By Honora
Located in Hicksville, NY
10k Honora Vintage Red Stone Floral Design Ring - VHK#59 Item Details: Year: 1990s Ring Size: 5.75 Metal Type: 10k Yellow Gold [Hallmarked, and Tested] Weight: 3.6 grams Stone Deta...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 10k Gold, Yellow 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.
This deep red gem is the color of heat and passion — vintage and antique ruby jewelry is perfect for those born in the middle of summer.
Rubies are one of the few gemstones that can give diamonds a run for their money. Just consider the Van Cleef & Arpels “scarf” necklace the Duke of Windsor presented to the Duchess on her 40th birthday, in 1936 — set with diamonds and dripping with rubies, a testament to the deep-red gemstone’s power — or the slippers encrusted with 4,600 rubies that Harry Winston made to commemorate The Wizard of Oz’s golden anniversary. July babies have permission to adorn themselves with this beautiful red stone even when it’s not their birthday.
Rubies are considered precious stones — along with diamonds, sapphires and emeralds — and have a hardness of 9.0 on the Mohs Scale, surpassed only by Moissanite and diamonds. They are composed of corundum, a colorless mineral that is also the basic material of sapphires. In the July birthstone, the red of the gemstone — and the various hues seen in sapphires — are produced by the presence of trace elements. In the case of a ruby, this element is chromium. Rubies range in color from vermilion to a violet red. They are also pleochroic, which means that a stone’s hue can vary depending on the direction of viewing. The most sought-after color is pigeon’s blood: pure red with a hint of blue.
Rubies that are hosted in dolomite marble are the most prized: Because the marble is low in iron, so are the rubies, resulting in a more intense color. Rubies found in basalt, which has a higher iron content, are generally darker and less intense.
When shopping for antique and vintage ruby jewelry, remember that the 4Cs of selecting the perfect diamond — color, clarity, cut and carat — also apply to rubies.
According to the Gemological Institute of America, the color of the July birthstone should be a vibrant to slightly purplish red, and the stone should be clear and inclusion-free. Accordingly, the cut should show off its color and clarity. As for the last criterion, fine rubies more than a carat in weight are rare. Often, large rubies are more expensive than diamonds of comparable weights.
Find a collection of ruby necklaces, ruby rings and other accessories 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.