$2,060Sale Price|20% Off
Timeless Blue Sapphire Diamonds White Gold Band Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Earrings Available) Diamond 4-RND57-0,08-4/4A Diamond 2-RND57-0,01-4/4A Blue Sapphire 7-0,71 Т(4)/2A Blue Sapphire 38-0,32 Т(3)/3C Size 6 US Weight 2,...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, White Gold
Antique 2.80Ct Diamond and 18k White Gold Full Eternity Ring Circa 1935
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This fine and impressive antique diamond eternity ring has been crafted in 18k white gold.
Diamond, White Gold
GIA 1.51 Carat Round Antique Openwork Engraved 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Handcrafted in New York, this stunning diamond ring features a captivating centerpiece with a GIA-certified 1.51 round diamond, masterfully set in a luxurious white gold four-prong s...
Diamond, White Gold
Antique 1.59 Carat Diamond and Pearl Cocktail Ring in 18k White Gold
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This stunning, fine and impressive large antique pearl and diamond ring has been crafted in 18k white gold.
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
$958Sale Price|20% Off
Antique Art Deco White Gold 3.82ct Oval Amethyst Solitaire Hand Engraved Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
–Stone(s)– (1) Natural Genuine Amethyst - Oval Cut -Prong Set - Dark Rich Royal Purple Color - 3.82ct (approx.) Material: Solid 18k White Gold Weight: 3.3 Grams Ring Size: 7.0 ( fit...
Amethyst, Gold, White Gold
Galilee Ring 14k White Gold Diamond Ring 0.20ct Sparkling Jewelry Size 8.5
Located in Greeneville, TN
✨ Timeless Elegance with a Touch of Sparkle ✨ The Galilee Ring, crafted in radiant 14k white gold, features 0.20ct shimmering diamonds for a design that exudes sophistication and cha...
Diamond, White Gold
Antique Edwardian 14K White Gold Platinum Old Euro Diamond Engagement Ring - GIA
Located in Great Neck, NY
Beautiful Antique Edwardian 14K White Gold Platinum Old Euro Diamond Engagement Ring - GIA.
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Platinum
Art Deco Baby Ring Engraved Eternity Flowers White Gold Antique Original 1910's
Located in Dearborn, MI
Genuine Original Antique from the 1910's Art Deco Baby Ring Engraved Eternity Flowers White Gold Hand Engraved Eternity Band with Flowers All Over 10K White Gold Circa 1910's ...
10k Gold, White Gold
Antique Pearl and Diamond White Gold Cocktail Ring Circa 1920
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This stunning antique pearl and diamond ring has been crafted in 14k white gold.
Diamond, Natural Pearl, Pearl, 14k Gold, White Gold
Victorian Coral Cameo Goddess Woman Ring 18 Karat White Gold Antique Neoclassic
Located in New York, NY
This is an absolutely stunning and rare antique Art Deco - Victorian - Belle Epoque Coral Cameo Ring with a magnificent hand carved image of a classical goddess woman set in a gorgeo...
Coral, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique Deco Music Sheet Ring Vintage 14 Karat White Gold Onyx
Located in Torrance, CA
Finely detailed vintage Art Deco era ring (circa 1920s), crafted in 14 karat white gold. Onyx is inscribed 'PCM' along with a music sheet and the year '29' Lacy filigree mount ...
Onyx, 14k Gold, White Gold
Antique 2.11 Carat Diamond and White Gold Toi Et Moi Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning, fine and impressive 2.11 carat diamond, 18 karat white gold and platinum toi et moi ring; part of our diverse diamond jewellery and estate jewelry collections. This stun...
Diamond, White Gold
Antique 14ct White Gold, 1920s Art Deco Emerald Cut Aquamarine & Diamond Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Aquamarine Ring 14ct White Gold Tested Circa 1920s This fabulous antique piece from the 1920s features a stunning emerald-cut aquamarine elegantly placed between milgrai...
Aquamarine, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
$798Sale Price|20% Off
Antique Art Deco White Gold Black Onyx & Diamond Hand Engraved Platter Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
Material: Solid 14k White Gold Weight: 3.2 Grams Ring Size: 6.0 ( fitted on finger, please contact us prior to purchase with sizing inquiries) Ring Width: 19mm (0.74") (top of the r...
Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
GIA 1.52ct Round Bezel Ornate Filigree Antique 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Crafted from luxurious white gold , the band showcases a unique ornate filigree design embellished with intricate clovers and leaves, enhancing its antique charm.
Diamond, White Gold
Antique white gold ring with Old-European Brilliant Cut Diamonds 1.70 ct
Located in Chorzów, PL
Antique gold ring made of white gold (0.500-0.560 fineness).
Diamond, White Gold
Antique 2.30Ct Diamond and 18k White Gold Full Eternity Ring Circa 1935
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This fine and impressive antique diamond ring has been crafted in 18k white gold.
Diamond, White Gold
$2,640Sale Price|20% Off
Sapphire Diamond Antique Style Halo Engagement Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
A striking square sapphire takes center stage, set in prongs that elevate its brilliance. Diamonds frame the gem in a delicate, floral-inspired pattern, adding sparkle and grace. The...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, White Gold, 14k Gold
GIA 1.50ct Round Antique Engraved Split Shank 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Handcrafted in New York, this striking diamond ring features a stunning center stone of round diamond weighing 1.50 , certified by GIA with a color grade of I and clarity of SI2. The...
Diamond, White Gold
Antique 18ct White Gold Art Deco Ruby & Diamond Scroll Target Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Target Ring 18ct White Gold Circa 1920’s Fabulous, Art Deco target ring.
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique Art Deco 14K White Gold Old European Diamond Cluster Saddle Ring
Located in Great Neck, NY
Beautiful Antique Art Deco 14K White Gold Old European Diamond Cluster Saddle Ring.
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Antique Art Deco 2.18 Carat Diamond and White Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning, fine and impressive antique 2.18 carat diamond and 18 karat white gold, palladium set Art Deco cocktail ring; part of our diverse diamond jewellery and estate jewelry col...
Diamond, White Gold, Palladium
Antique French 18ct White Gold, 0.34 Carat Single Stone Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Diamond Ring 18ct White Gold & Platinum- French Stamped Circa 1920s Step back into the 1920s with this stunning example of French jewellery design.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique 1.36Ct Diamond and 14k White Gold Solitaire Engagement Ring Circa 1930
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This stunning, fine and impressive antique engagement ring has been crafted in 14k white gold.
Diamond, White Gold
Antique 1950s Cabochon Blue Sapphire Diamonds White 18 Carat Gold Ring
Located in Milano, IT
A Beautiful 1950s Cabochon Sapphire Ring set in White Gold 18k with 28 Diamonds approximately 0,25 ctw, Cabochon Sapphire, approximately 7 ctw, mm 12x10 / 0.4724x0.3937 inches US si...
Blue Sapphire, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18K White Gold Sophie Antique Diamond Stack Ring '1 Ct. tw'
Located in San Francisco, CA
This Antique style stack band features a set of three rings.
Diamond, White Gold
Antique Art Deco White Gold 0.83tcw Old Mine Cut Diamond Dinner Ring
Located in New York, NY
A striking example of Art Deco elegance, this Antique White Gold Old Mine Cut Diamond Dinner Ring embodies the bold geometry and refined craftsmanship of the era.
Diamond, White Gold
GIA 1.51ct Cushion Antique Halo Multi-Stone Curved White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
**Save this ring ❤️ to receive price updates** Handcrafted in New York, this stunning diamond ring features a captivating cushion diamond at the center, weighing 1.51 and exhibiting ...
Diamond, White Gold
$788Sale Price|20% Off
Antique Art Deco White Gold 0.38ctw Diamond Geometric Filigree Dome Dinner Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
Material: Solid 12k White Gold Weight: 3.68 Grams Ring Size: 6.5 (Fitted on a finger.
Diamond, Gold, White Gold
GIA 1.51 Carat Princess Milgrain Openwork Antique 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Handcrafted in New York, a stunning diamond ring that truly stands apart, featuring a remarkable GIA-certified princess diamond of 1.51 with Handcrafted in New York, a stunning G and...
Diamond, White Gold
$1,826Sale Price|20% Off
Fashion Green Moldavite Every Day Diamonds White Gold Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Earrings Available) Diamond 24-RND57-0,2-4/4A Diamond 12-RND57-0,14-99/7A Diamond 2-RND57-0,02 Moldavite 1-2,62ct- Size USA 6. Weight 2.93 grams Wi...
Diamond, White Gold
Antique Art Deco 14K White Gold, Diamond, & Camphor Glass Filigree Cocktail Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine antique Art Deco white gold, diamond, and camphor glass ring.
Diamond, White Gold
GIA 1.20ct Emerald Bezel Antique Ribbon Prong Bridge White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Handcrafted in New York, this captivating diamond ring boasts a stunning centerpiece of a GIA-certified emerald diamond weighing 1.20. The luxurious stone exhibits a delightful I and...
Diamond, White Gold
Antique 1.62 Carat Diamond 18k White Gold Solitaire Engagement Ring circa 1935
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This stunning, fine and impressive antique diamond ring has been crafted in 18k white gold.
Diamond, White Gold
Modern Brown Diamond White Gold 18K Every Day Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 18K Diamond 117-RND57-1,01 ct G/SI1A Size USA 7 Weight 3,30 grams Minimal yet sophisticated, this piece adds a subtle touch of brilliance to any look, making it an...
Diamond, Brown Diamond, White Gold
Antique Art Deco 18K White Gold Orange Blossom Wedding Band Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Art Deco period band ring. In 18 karat white gold. With engraved orange blossom decoration around the band. Engraved to the shank for 'LB to CG Sep. 26 1925', and marked fo...
White Gold
$4,560Sale Price|20% Off
Antique 18K White Gold Filigree Ring with .65 Ct Diamond, Circa 1923
Located in Aspen, CO
Antique filigree diamond 18K white gold ring. The center European cut diamond weighs an estimated .65 cts.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Fashionable Modern Lazurite RockStone Diamond White Gold 18K Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 18 K Diamond 35-RND 57-0,41 ct-7/7A Diamond 28-RND 57-0,08-4/5A RockStone / Lazurite 1-4,3 ct Weight 4.75 grams Size US 6.5 With a heritage of ancient fine Swiss ...
Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Antique 1910s 1.54 Carat Diamond and White Gold Platinum Set Marquise Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This fine and impressive antique multi-diamond ring has been crafted in 18k white gold with a platinum setting.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Platinum
Antique 1.18 Carat Diamond 18k White Gold Solitaire Engagement Ring Circa 1910
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A fine and impressive antique 1.18 carat diamond and 18 karat white gold solitaire engagement ring; part of our diverse collection of Edwardian engagement rings.
Diamond, White Gold
Fashion Blue Sapphire White Gold Every Day Diamond Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Earrings Available) Diamond 50-RND57-0,1 ct Blue Sapphire 1-0,73 ct Size USA 7 Weight 1,77 grams With a heritage of ancient fine Swiss jewelry tra...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, White Gold
$2,000Sale Price|20% Off
Art Deco Coral Cameo Goddess Woman Ring White Yellow Gold Antique Neoclassical
Located in New York, NY
This is an absolutely stunning and rare antique Art Deco - Victorian - Belle Epoque Coral Cameo Ring with a hand carved image of a classical goddess woman set in a gorgeous open work...
Coral, Gold, Yellow Gold, 10k Gold, White Gold
GIA 0.81 Carat Round Antique Openwork Engraved 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Handcrafted in New York, this stunning diamond ring features a captivating centerpiece with a GIA-certified 0.81 round diamond, masterfully set in a luxurious white gold four-prong s...
Diamond, White Gold
Classic Engagement Diamond 1 Carat White Gold Engagement Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
White Gold 14K Ring Diamond 1 Round 57 - 1,02 Carat VVS 1 Colour G US size 6,5 Weight 2,72 gram With a heritage of ancient fine Swiss jewelry traditions, NATKINA is a Geneva based ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
$1,438Sale Price|20% Off
Antique 18k White Gold .37ctw Old Mine Cut Diamond Buttercup Solitaire Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
-Stone(s):- (1) Natural Genuine Diamond - Old Mine Cut - Buttercup Prong Set - Faint Yellow Color - VS2 Clarity - 0.37ctw (exact ) Material: Solid 18k White Gold Weight: 2.65 Grams ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$2,715Sale Price|20% Off
Fashion Every Day Emerald Diamonds White Gold Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K Diamond 4-RND57-0,05-4/5A Diamond 44-RND57-0,17-4/5A Emerald 12-0,95 3/(5)З₁A Size 6,5 USA Weight 3,45 grams With a heritage of ancient fine Swiss jewelry tr...
Emerald, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$3,745Sale Price|20% Off
Italian Breathtaking Blue Sapphire Diamonds White Gold Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Earrings Available) Diamond 3-RND57-0,08-4/6 Blue Sapphire 6-1,51 Т(5)/3 Blue Sapphire 9-2,35 Т(5)/2 Size 7,2 Weight 4,37 grams With a heritage of an...
Diamond, White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, White Gold
$1,720Sale Price|20% Off
Antique Art Deco 18k White Gold Diamond Emerald Filigree Open Work Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
–Stone(s)– (1) Natural Genuine Diamond - Old European Cut - Prong Set - G Color - VS1 Clarity - 0.29ct (approx.) (4) Synthetic Emeralds - Custom Cut - Milgrain Bezel Set - Green Colo...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Sparkling 1.39 Carat Antique style Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
Located in רמת גן, IL
This stunning ring features a striking 0.61 carat briolette-cut diamond as its main stone, exuding elegance and sophistication. The diamond boasts a captivating clarity ranging from ...
Diamond, White Gold
Emerald and Diamond Antique Style Halo Engagement Ring in 14K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ring Information Style: Antique Metal: 14K White Gold Total weight: 2.24 g.
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, White Gold
$2,158Sale Price|20% Off
Antique Art Deco White Gold .53ct Diamond Etched Floral Filigree Engagement Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
Total Carat Weight: 0.53 (approx.) Material: Solid 18k White Gold Weight: 2.5 Grams Ring Size: 7.0 (Fitted on a finger.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Antique 14K Yellow & White Gold Diamond Engagement Ring 0.61 CTW Size 4
Located in Addison, TX
Details Metal: 14K Yellow Gold with White Gold Accents Purity: 14K Ring Size: Approximately 4 Total Weight: 2.1 Grams Main Stone: Natural Diamond Center Diamond Weight: Approximately...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,621Sale Price|20% Off
Fashion Emerald Tsavorite Diamonds White Gold Band Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Earrings Available) Diamond 4-RND57-0,08-4/4A Diamond 2-RND57-0,01-4/4A Emerald 7-0,6 3/(5)З₁B Tsavorite 38-0,33 3/(5)З₁A Size USA 7 Weight 2,75 gr...
Diamond, Emerald, Tsavorite, White Gold
Art Deco Nine Carat Amethyst Ring 14 Karat White Gold Antique Filigree
Located in New York, NY
This is an extraordinary antique Art Deco Amethyst 14 Karat White Gold Ring with a stunning oval faceted natural Amethyst of approximately 9.2 Carats in a gorgeous filigree open work...
Amethyst, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
GIA 1.3ct Round Antique Fancy Gallery Engraved 18K White Gold Diamond Ring
By EMD Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Diamond Details: Certificate: GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Shape: Round Carat: 1.3 Color: H Clarity: SI2 Cut/Pol/Sym: EX/EX/EX Ring Details: Karat: 18K Metal: White Gold ...
Diamond, White Gold
Antique Old Cut Diamond Platinum & 18 Carat White Gold Art Deco Cluster Ring
Located in London, GB
The top of the piece sits low and close to the finger, with a neat open gallery beneath that allows light to pass through. Finally, the ring is complemented by a delicate 18 carat w...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Platinum
Antique French 1.90 Carat Sapphire 1.10 Carat Diamond White Gold Cluster Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning antique French 1.90 carat natural blue sapphire and 1.10 carat diamond, 18 karat white gold and platinum set cluster ring; part of our diverse antique jewelry collections.
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Fashion Blue Sapphire White Gold Every Day Diamond Ring for Her
By Natkina
Located in Genève, GE
Ring White Gold 14 K (Matching Earrings Available) Diamond 40-RND57-0,21-4/4A Blue Sapphire 10-25-0,6 Т(5)/3 Size USA 6.2 Weight 2.24 grams With a heritage of ancient fine Swiss ...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, White Gold
Antique 0.35ct Diamond Five Stone Ring in 18k White Gold, Circa 1930
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
An impressive antique 0.35 carat diamond and 18 karat white gold five stone cocktail ring; part of our diverse antique jewelry and estate jewelry collections.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Antique 16.41Ct Pink Tourmaline and 0.12Ct Diamond 18K White Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
This stunning, fine and impressive pink tourmaline ring has been crafted in 18k white gold. The antique ring is embellished with a stunning and rare claw set 16.41ct round faceted c...
Diamond, Tourmaline, 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.”
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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.