J. Birnbach GIA Certified 1.94 carat Fancy Yellow Asscher Cut Diamond Ring
By J. Birnbach
Located in New York, NY
Key Details: - Center stone: 1.94-carat Fancy Yellow Asscher-cut diamond, GIA certified - Side stones: 0.34 total carat weight white shield-cut diamonds, F color, VS clarity - Plati...
Diamond, Platinum
14 Karat Yellow Gold Asscher Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Material: 14K yellow gold Diamond: 1 asscher cut = 2.44ct Color: K Clarity: VS2 GIA: 6234370631 Diamond: 26 round brilliant cut = 0.58cttw Color: G Clarity: VS1-2 Ring Size: 6.5 (ple...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$3,837Sale Price|20% Off
14 Karat Yellow Gold Asscher Cut Ruby Diamond Ring
Located in Houston, TX
This ring is made in 14K yellow gold and features 1 asscher cut ruby weighing 1.30 carats.
Diamond, Ruby, Yellow Gold
1.01ct Asscher Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Stone Type: Natural Certification: GIA Metal: 18k Yellow Gold Ring Size: 6.5 (sizable) Primary Carat Weight: 1.01 Primary Cut: Asscher Cut Primary Color: E Primary Clarity: VVS1
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Asscher Cut Emerald and Diamond Ring
By Cayen Collection
Located in Carmel, CA
A single, Asscher cut Emerald accented with six graduated Asscher cut Diamonds is set in a hand fabricated, 18k white and yellow gold setting. Certified, Vivid Color Emerald. Emeral...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Oscar Heyman Asscher-Cut Diamond Cluster Ring
By Oscar Heyman
Located in London, GB
Here we have a striking cluster ring by Oscar Heyman. A rectangular concave shaped face features an dazzling array of bright white asscher-cut diamonds, meticulously set in a grid pa...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1.56ct Asscher Cut Diamond Men's Ring in 18k Yellow Gold
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This astonishing Asscher cut diamond ring is bold! The 1.56ct Asscher cut center diamond is elegantly set in a two-tone 18k white and yellow gold setting.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Asscher and Trilliant Cut Diamond Dome Ring
Located in Coral Gables, FL
18 Karat Yellow Gold Men's Ring Featuring 15 Asscher and Trillant Cut Diamonds Of VS Clarity & G Color Totaling Approximately 2.00 Carats.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Three-Stone Asscher Cut Diamond Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a fabulous three-stone diamond ring. At the centre sits a bright white asscher cut diamond in a flush rub-over setting.
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Platinum
Eternity Band with Fancy Yellow Asscher Cut Diamonds
By M&V Vanguard Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
Eternity wedding band in 18k Yellow Gold, Bezel set 15 stones natural fancy yellow Asscher cut diamonds Total Carat Weight :3.15ct 0.20ct each stone Size: 5.75
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Eternity Band with Fancy Yellow Asscher Cut Diamonds
By M&V Vanguard Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
Eternity band with Fancy Yellow Asschers cut in 18K Yellow Gold 18 stones totaling: 7.74ct 0.43ct each Size:6
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Eternity Band with Fancy Yellow Asschers Cut Diamonds
By M&V Vanguard Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
Eternity Band with Fancy Yellow Asschers Cut Diamonds in 18K Yellow Gold 16 stones totaling 9.60ct 0.60ct each Size:6
Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Hancocks Contemporary 2.94ct Fancy Vivid Yellow Asscher Cut Diamond 3 Stone Ring
By Hancocks
Located in London, GB
A beautiful diamond and fancy colour diamond three stone ring by Hancocks, set to the centre with an Asscher cut fancy vivid yellow diamond weighing 2.94cts and of VVS2 clarity in an...
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Platinum
6.03 ctw Vintage Asscher Cut Colombian Emerald & Diamond 18K Yellow Gold Ring
By Unbranded
Located in Tysons, VA
Details: Style: Vintage Style Center Stone: Colombian Emerald (Asscher-Cut) Total Carat Weight: 6.03 ctw Accent Stones: Diamonds Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Setting: Halo Ring Size: 5 Ori...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Deco Inspired Asscher Cut Diamond Ring in 18k Yellow Gold
Located in London, England
A beautiful Art Deco inspired Asscher cut diamond ring set in 18k yellow gold.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold 1.30 Ct Asscher Cut Diamond Eternity Band Engagement Ring
Located in Jaipur, IN
Pure Architecture — An Asscher-Cut Diamond Eternity Band in 14K Solid Yellow Gold Details:- Item Code :- RIMJ-1080 Material - 14K Solid Yellow Gold Diamond Weight - 1.30 Carat Gros...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Eternity Band with Fancy Yellow Asscher Cut Diamonds 7.73ct
By M&V Vanguard Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
Eternity Band with Fancy Yellow Asscher Cut Diamonds In 18K Yellow Gold, encrusted with pave on the side, totaling 0.16ct 17 stones 0.45ct each Fancy Yellow Assher Cut Diamonds tota...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
New 14k Yellow Gold 1.56ctw Asscher Cut Diamond Stackable Wedding Band Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
--Stone(s):-- (5) Natural Genuine Diamonds - Asscher Cut - Prong Set - G/H Color - VS1/VS2 Clarity Total Carat Weight: 1.56 (exact) Material: Solid 14k Yellow Gold Weight: 2.81 Gram...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Hancocks 2.12ct Fancy Intense Yellow Asscher Cut Diamond Three Stone Ring
By Hancocks
Located in London, GB
Maker: Hancocks Summary: Hancocks 2.12ct Fancy Intense Yellow Asscher Cut Diamond Three Stone Ring Description: An old cut fancy yellow and white diamond ring by Hancocks.
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Platinum
Vintage 18K Yellow Gold 1.26ct Asscher Cut Diamond Band Ring, Invisible Set
Located in Morris Plains, NJ
A striking vintage diamond band ring crafted in 18K yellow gold, featuring 18 natural Asscher-cut diamonds invisibly set for a seamless, sophisticated look.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold Asscher Cut Diamond Station Band
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Material: 18k yellow gold Diamond: round brilliant cut = 0.96cttw Color: G Clarity: VS Ring Size: 7 (please allow up to 2 additional business days for sizing requests) Weight: 5.73 g...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 2.13 Carats Asscher Cut Yellow Diamond Three-Stone Engagement Ring
By Roman Malakov
Located in New York, NY
A stunning engagement ring, showcasing a 2.13 carats Asscher cut yellow diamond certified by GIA as Fancy Yellow color and Internally Flawless clarity, set on a four claw prong setti...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum, Yellow Gold
0.44ct Natural Yellow Square Diamond & 0.23ct G/VS Asscher Cut Diamond Ring
Located in London, GB
This beautiful ring features a certified 0.44ct natural fancy deep yellowish green square Diamond and 0.23ct G/VS asscher cut Diamond.
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
4.35ct Fancy Brown Asscher Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Presenting our exquisite 4.35ct Asscher cut diamond ring, a masterpiece of elegance set in luxurious platinum.
Diamond, Platinum
GIA Certified 6.06 Carat Asscher Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
By Provident
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Crafted by the master artisans of Provident Jewelry in 18 karat yellow gold, this refined ring showcases a magnificent GIA-certified Asscher cut diamond weighing 6.06 carats.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rare Asscher cut diamond ring VVS1 engagement ring GIA certified
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Asscher cut diamond VVS1 clarity and Fancy Brownish Yellow color in 18KT yellow gold, stunning modern design ring with a stunning 1.76 carats diamond!
Diamond, 18k Gold
Asscher Cut Diamond Eternity Band
Located in Wailea, HI
21 Yellow Asscher Cut Diamonds in 18k yellow gold ring 4.86 Carat total weight Approximate Clarity VVS-VS Ring Size 6.5
Diamond, 18k Gold
3.38-carat Fancy Vivid Yellow Asscher Cut Three Stone Diamond Engagement Ring
By Rick Shatz
Located in New York, NY
Celebrate your love with the enchanting beauty of this 3.38-carat Fancy Vivid Yellow Asscher Cut Three Stone Diamond Engagement Ring.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
7.65 Carats Asscher Cut Peridot and Diamond Ring in 18 Karat Yellow Gold
By Kiersten Elizabeth
Located in Southport, CT
Rare to see such a beautifully cut Peridot as this one. This ring features a stunning 7.0 Carat Asscher cut bezel set Peridot with 0.65 Carats of Bullet-shaped Diamonds on the side....
Diamond, Peridot, Yellow Gold
4.06 Carat Asscher Cut Fancy Yellow Orange Diamond 18K Gold Three-Stone Ring
Located in New York, NY
Title: 4.06 Carat Asscher Cut Faint Yellow Green-Fancy Orange Brown-Fancy Yellowish Brown VS1-VS2 Diamond 18 Karat Two Tone Gold Three-Stone Ring Style: Three-Stone Metal: 18 Kar...
Diamond, 18k Gold
18K Yellow Gold Three Stone GIA 2.77 Carat Asscher Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
GIA Report Number 2454737434 Entirely Handmade Three Stone Engagement Ring Featuring an Amazing Asscher Cut Diamond That is Out of This World!
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
TVJ 1.00 Carat Asscher Cut Diamond Five-Stone Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a beautiful five-stone diamond ring. This ring features a Georgian style cut down setting with five asscher cut diamonds set across the face in a single line formation; ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
TVJ 1.40 Carat Asscher Cut Diamond Seven-Stone Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a stunning seven-stone diamond ring. The ring features a Georgian style cut down setting with seven asscher cut diamonds; all of which are excellently matching in terms ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
2.20ct Asscher Cut Diamond Eternity Band in 18k Yellow Gold
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The design showcases a flawless arrangement of 2.20 carats of brilliantly cut Asscher Diamonds. Crafted in 18k Sunshine Yellow Gold, it stands out beautifully on its own or paired wi...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 1.5ct Asscher-Cut Diamond Men’s Signet Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By VimleshBadaya
Located in Jaipur, RJ
Product Details: Main Stone: 1.50ct Natural Asscher-Cut Diamond Color: E Clarity: VVS Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Band Width: Approx. 3mm (Tapered) Ring Style: Solitaire Men’s Signet...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
GIA-Certified 4.00ct Asscher-Cut Diamond Unisex Signet Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By VimleshBadaya
Located in Jaipur, RJ
Bold yet refined, architectural yet timeless—this GIA-certified 4.00ct Asscher-cut diamond signet ring redefines the essence of modern luxury with vintage soul.
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
GIA Certified 3ct Asscher-Cut Diamond Men’s Signet Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By VimleshBadaya
Located in Jaipur, RJ
Designed for the modern gentleman who values heritage craftsmanship and subtle luxury, this piece is a distinctive choice for a wedding band, engagement ring, or milestone gift. Pro...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
GIA Certified 4ct Asscher-Cut Diamond Men’s Signet Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By VimleshBadaya
Located in Jaipur, RJ
Product Specifications: Main Stone: 4.00ct Natural Asscher-Cut Diamond Color: F Clarity: VS Certification: GIA Certified Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Band Width: Approx. 3mm (Tapered)...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
8.00ct Asscher Cut Diamond Eternity Band in 18k Yellow Gold
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Total Carat Weight: 8.0 Stone Type: Natural Certification: Yes Metal: 18k Yellow Gold Ring Size: 6.5 (sizable) Primary Cut: Asscher Cut Primary Color: E-F Primary Clarity: VVS2-VS2
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Deco Asscher Cut Sapphire Diamond Ring circa 1920s
Located in London, GB
A one carat asscher cut sapphire is wrapped within a twinkling 1.90 carat, grain set border of old cut diamonds at the heart of this circa 1920s halo ring.
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Platinum, Yellow Gold
11 Carat Asscher Cut Diamond Engagement Ring GIA Certified FBY VVS2
By Mike Nekta New York
Located in New York, NY
RAYO -ASSCHER CUT NATURAL FANCY YELLOW DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING BY MIKE NEKTA GIA CERTIFIED Center Diamond: Carat Weight: 10.2 Carats Color Grade : FANCY BROWNISH YELLOW Color Origin...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
5.05ct Fancy Yellow Asscher Cut Diamond Eternity Band in 18k Yellow Gold
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This exquisite 18k yellow gold wedding band features a captivating U-Prong design, showcasing 5.05 carats of asscher cut diamonds.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Gemistry 7.76 Carat Asscher Cut Green Amethyst & Diamond Solitaire Ring
Located in New York, NY
This Gemistry solitaire ring features in the center an 7.76 carat asscher cut, octagon green amethyst, prong set on an openwork gallery of polished 14k yellow gold with tapered shank.
Amethyst, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18k White & Yellow Gold 3 Row 4.85ctw Ruby Natural Asscher Cut Diamond Ring Band
Located in Boca Raton, FL
18k White and Yellow Gold 3 Row 4.85ctw Ruby and 2.96ctw Natural Asscher Cut Diamond Ring Wide Band This stunning 3 Row Ruby Ring is in excellent condition and is ready to ship!
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
8.00ct Asscher Cut Diamond Eternity Band in 18k Champagne Yellow Gold
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This modern diamond eternity band is truly one-of-a-kind! The design features a stunning arrangement of 8.00ct Asscher cut diamonds.
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Round Sapphire Ring, Baguette & Asscher Cut Diamonds in 18k Yellow Gold
Located in Old Tappan, NJ
Vintage 18K yellow gold ring with one oval sapphire 0.77 carats and 8 Asscher cut diamonds and 18 baguette diamonds totaling 1.00 carats.
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Emilio Jewelry 4.95 Carat Asscher Cut Yellow White Diamond Eternity Band
By Emilio!
Located in New York, NY
From the vault at Emilio Jewelry located on New York's iconic Fifth Avenue, Average diamond size about .25ct each RING 18KT Gold All finger sizes available to be made, larger diamo...
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
2.17tcw 14K Colombian Emerald-Asscher Cut & Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
Located in Jupiter, FL
Showcased is a natural high-quality emerald and diamond modern engagement ring in 14K. This ring features a deep vivid Asscher cut emerald from Colombian mines. The emerald is set in...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow & White Gold Bezel Set Asscher Cut Diamond Station Band
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Material: 18K yellow & white gold Diamond: 5 asscher cut = 1.04cttw Color: G / H Clarity: VS1 Ring Size: 7 (please allow up to 2 additional business days for sizing requests) Wei...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Eternity band with Fancy Yellow Asschers cut 0.60ct each
By M&V Vanguard Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
Eternity band with Fancy Yellow Asschers cut 0.60ct In 18K Yellow Gold 16 stones totaling 9.60ct Size:6
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Yellow Gold Amethyst Diamond Ring - 14k Asscher Brilliant 1.95 Milgrain
Located in Greensboro, NC
Size: 6 1/2 Sizing Fee: Up 2 sizes for $60 or Down 1 size for $40 Metal Content: 14k Yellow Gold Stone Information Natural Amethyst Carat(s): 1.90ct Cut: Asscher Brilliant Natura...
Amethyst, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
6.92 Carat Bezel Set Asscher cut Yellow Diamond 18 Karat Gold Eternity Ring
By Sebastian Bernard
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This beautiful Eternity Ring is made in 18K Yellow Gold with 13 perfectly matched Asscher Cut Diamonds Bezel Set in with Halo around each individual diamond.
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
J.Birnbach GIA 9.11 Carat Total Fancy Yellow Asscher Cut Diamond Toi et Moi Ring
By J. Birnbach
Located in New York, NY
This extraordinary vintage-style Toi et Moi ring is a bold and romantic celebration of contrast and balance. Featuring two exceptional center diamonds, the design brings together dis...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
4.01tcw 18K Colombian Emerald-Asscher Cut & Baguette Diamond Men's Gold Ring
Located in Jupiter, FL
A remarkable Colombian emerald and diamond ring. The center stone carries a full 2.71-carat Asscher cut natural Colombian emerald; displaying a stunning bluish-green color, and pellu...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Yellow Gold Full Eternity 4.43ct. Asscher Cut Diamond Accented Wedding Band
Located in Houston, TX
Shared-Prong Set in 18 Karat Yellow Gold with: Twenty-one (21) asscher™ cut natural diamonds: Measurements: 3.15mm x 3.25mm Weight Range: 0.183 ct. - 0.203 ct.
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
3.65ct Asscher Cut Diamond Eternity Band in 18k Champagne Yellow Gold
By Mark Broumand
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This sleek asscher cut diamond eternity band is meticulously handcrafted in 18k champagne yellow gold.
Diamond, 18k Gold
1950's 0.95 CTW Fancy Yellow Asscher Diamond Platinum Vintage Engagement Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Centering an Asscher cut diamond weighing approximately 0.75 carats total - fancy yellow color with VS2 clarity Set with split claw prongs in a pierced geometric basket and flanked b...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Platinum
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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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.
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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.