Welsh Gold Ring
1990s British Retro Band Rings
9k Gold, Rose Gold
Recent Sales
20th Century Welsh Contemporary Solitaire Rings
Emerald, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary British Victorian Band Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold
20th Century British Art Nouveau Band Rings
Rose Gold
People Also Browsed
Early 20th Century French Belle Époque More Jewelry
Diamond, Platinum
2010s Turkish Modern Bridal Rings
Garnet, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Signet Rings
Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1960s French Retro Drop Necklaces
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Antique Late 19th Century British Enamel Frames and Objects
White Diamond, 18k Gold, Silver
Antique 1890s European Victorian Drop Necklaces
Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Silver
Antique 1860s British Victorian More Necklaces
Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Vintage 1910s Swedish Edwardian Vanity Items
Diamond, Gold, Silver
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.
- Can wedding rings be gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023Yes, wedding rings can be gold. Your options also aren't limited to the traditional warm-glowing yellow, as many makers offer wedding rings in white gold and rose gold as well. Most wedding rings feature 14-karat or 18-karat gold rather than pure 24-karat gold because alloys are stronger and more resistant to breakage and scratching. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of gold wedding rings.
- Can engagement rings be gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Engagement rings can be gold. However, because gold is a softer metal than other metals, such as platinum, making it less popular.
- Are all Cartier rings gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023No, not all Cartier rings are gold. Although the luxury jewelry maker produces many white, rose and yellow gold pieces, some rings are platinum. The French jewelry house, founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, pioneered the use of platinum in fine jewelry in the late 1800s, identifying the strong, lustrous metal as ideal for bringing out the true qualities of diamonds. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Cartier rings.
- What is a gold signet ring?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021The gold signet ring is traditionally a symbol of heritage. It is often handed down through the generations of a family. It is also known as the “gentleman's ring” or “seal rings.” The name comes from the Latin 'Signum' which means “sign.” On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage gold signet rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023No, most gold wedding rings aren't pure gold. Pure or 24-karat gold is a malleable material and generally isn't a good choice for making jewelry intended to be worn every day. As a result, most wedding rings are made of a gold alloy, such as 18-karat or 14-karat gold. Find a large selection of gold wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023Whether or not gold engagement rings are outdated is a matter of opinion. Yellow gold has been used to produce rings for centuries. However, white gold and rose gold can be appealing for those who want something different for an engagement ring. Because you'll likely wear your engagement ring for years to come, it's a good idea to choose pieces that appeal to you rather than following trends that change from season to season. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of engagement rings.
- Are Swarovski rings real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Swarovski rings are made from palladium and gold-plated metals, rather than 18 carat gold. As a result they are more suited to handling wear and tear.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023No, gold wedding rings are not out of style. While the circle shape has always symbolized an unending pledge of love to one's partner, preferred materials in the production of wedding bands have changed over time. Metals such as iron in early Rome replaced the wedding rings of bone and ivory that came before them. These days, white gold and yellow gold are still among the most popular metals for engagement rings and wedding rings. Find antique and vintage wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021The best gold ring to buy is really a matter of preference. Shop from a selection of antique, vintage and contemporary gold rings of 1stDibs.
- What does a gold lion ring mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A gold lion ring can be a symbol of strength and leadership as well as a piece meant to bring protection to the wearer. Wearing it on the right hand can accentuate the meaning of the leadership qualities, while wearing it on the left hand emphasizes its protection qualities. Shop a range of authentic gold lion rings on 1stDibs.
- Is a Cartier ring real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 12, 2023Whether a Cartier ring is real gold depends on the piece. Cartier only uses genuine 18-karat white gold, yellow gold and rose gold for rings labeled as "gold rings." However, Cartier also offers rings crafted out of materials like platinum, so not all pieces produced by the French luxury jewelry maker are gold. Shop a large selection of Cartier rings on 1stDibs.
- How much does a gold ring weigh?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024How much a gold ring weighs varies. Generally, most gold rings weigh 3.5 to 5.3 grams. The diameter measurement and thickness of the ring will largely determine how much it weighs. Gemstones and other embellishments will increase the weight. Find a diverse assortment of gold rings from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2023Yes, engagement rings can be rose gold. In fact, many people love the warm pinkish glow of the precious metal and choose it for their engagement rings. In addition, rose gold doesn't tarnish and is highly resistant to scratches. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of rose gold engagement rings.
- Can wedding rings be white gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023Yes, white gold can be used in wedding rings. In fact, the precious metal offers distinctive benefits because it doesn't tarnish and resists corrosion. The metal is also relatively malleable, allowing it to be adorned with intricate details and engravings. Shop a range of white gold wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021Since 24k gold is too soft, jewelry made with this kind of gold tends to bend easily. It is preferable to use 10k, 14k or 18k gold for rings. Find a collection of vintage and antique gold rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023Gold nugget rings became popular during the time of the California gold rush during the mid 19th century. At the time, people associated the rings with wealth, power and good fortune. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of gold nugget rings.
- Is a Cartier ring solid gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022No, a Cartier ring is not usually solid gold. Typically, the French luxury jewelry maker uses 18-karat gold to craft jewelry. An 18-karat gold ring is 75 percent gold and 25 percent metal alloy. Shop a collection of Cartier rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024Your silver ring is likely turning gold due to a chemical process known as tarnishing. It occurs when sulfuric compounds and other substances in the air react with silver, causing it to change color. You can reduce the risk of tarnishing by following the storage, cleaning and care instructions provided by the jewelry maker. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of silver rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024How much a small gold ring is worth will vary. One major factor in determining the price is the type of gold. Most gold rings are made of alloys, meaning they consist of gold and other metals. Generally, the more gold is present in the alloy, the more the ring may be worth when sold for scrap. For example, 18-karat gold, which is 75% pure gold, tends to be more valuable than 14-karat gold, which is only 58.3% pure gold. The thickness and diameter of the ring will also impact its potential value. Some rings may be worth more than the going rate for gold due to their age, maker, style and other factors. A jeweler or certified appraiser can tell you how much your ring may be worth. Explore a diverse assortment of gold rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023No, yellow gold engagement rings are not out of style. In fact, white gold and yellow gold are still among the most popular metals for engagement rings and wedding rings. It's important to note that while current trends with respect to engagement rings may seem to ebb and flow more quickly than those of days gone by, couples don't get engaged the moment a trend emerges. Whatever may be trending now with respect to engagement rings may be a style or cut that has been popular for years. Find antique and vintage wedding rings on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023Whether yellow gold engagement rings are out of style depends largely on who you ask. To many individuals, yellow gold is a timeless precious metal that remains appealing despite changing trends. That's part of the reason why brides in the British royal family, from Meghan Markle to Kate Middleton to Princess Diana, all received yellow gold engagement rings. Find a diverse assortment of yellow gold engagement rings on 1stDibs.
Read More
Our Guide to Engagement Ring Settings – And How to Choose One
There are many ways to showcase a diamond, from traditional prongs to a smooth, streamlined bezel. Here’s everything you need to consider.
Nothing Says Summer Heat Like This Ruby-Red Cartier Stunner
The vintage bombé ring is bursting with color and timeless style.
Zircon Rings: Our Guide to a Uniquely Colorful Natural Gemstone
Zircon is a magnificent and underrated natural gemstone that has been worn and adored for centuries.
[Survey] Two-Thirds of Jewelry Gift Recipients Don’t Want to Be Surprised
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.
Colorful Gemstones Are a Brilliant Choice for Engagement Rings
If diamonds don’t seem right, what about a magnificent sapphire, ruby or emerald?
Our Guide to Fancy-Colored Diamond Engagement Rings
Accounting for just 1 percent of all diamonds, these marvels of nature are exceedingly rare and gorgeously complex.
Our Guide to Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco Engagement Rings
Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.
Talking Diamonds with the Jeweler Behind J. Lo’s Engagement Ring
Alon Ruschin, of Vivid Diamonds & Jewelry, channels his passion for gems into helping clients find just the right ring.