In the 19th century, Cartier sought to render the diamonds in their rings as brilliantly as possible, initially sourcing platinum specifically from Russian mines and matching the durable metal with an equally robust precious stone. The French jewelry house, founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier (1819–1904), 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 in Cartier solitaire rings, panthère rings, engagement rings and other exquisite rings offered by the brand.
While platinum had been a part of jewelry making before, it hadn’t been used in the way that Cartier intended. The house's shimmering rings, such as the timeless Solitaire 1895 engagement ring, gave the impression of delicate lace when they debuted. Platinum was the metal of choice in Cartier engagement rings and other rings because it was strong enough to handle complex mountings and its hue made the diamonds look exceptionally white, which made the onyx, enamel and colored-gem elements pop.
The house’s offerings were wholly distinct, standing out from the era’s old-fashioned gold or silver pieces and emblematic of what would come to be called the “Cartier style.”
Perhaps 1847 was not the ideal time to open a new watchmaking and jewelry business, as the French Revolution was not kind to the aristocracy who could afford such luxuries. Nevertheless, it was the year Louis-François Cartier (1819–1904) — who was born into poverty — founded his eponymous empire, assuming control of the workshop of watchmaker Adolphe Picard, under whom he had previously been employed as an assistant. Of course, in the beginning, it was a relatively modest affair, but by the late 1850s, Cartier had its first royal client, Princess Mathilde Bonaparte, niece of Napoleon Bonaparte, who commissioned the jeweler to design brooches, earrings and other accessories.
Under the leadership of Louis-François’s son, Alfred, who took over in 1874, business boomed. Royalty around the world wore Cartier pieces, including Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, the Maharaja of Patiala and King Edward VII, who had 27 tiaras made by the jewelry house for his coronation in 1902 and issued Cartier a royal warrant in 1904.
Cartier’s golden years, however, began when Alfred introduced his three sons, Louis, Pierre and Jacques, to the business. The brothers expanded Cartier globally: Louis reigned in Paris, Pierre in New York and Jacques in London, ensuring their brand’s consistency at their branches across the world. The trio also brought in such talents as Charles Jacqueau and Jeanne Toussaint.
Cartier helped define Art Deco, and a few iconic palettes were expressed in gem-set rings and other jewelry and objects in the Art Deco era, most notably in geometric formations. Green/black/white and coral/black/white are as classic Art Deco as it gets, and Cartier had plenty of these two combinations on view at the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes. Cartier designers heightened the impact of these color stories by working in swaths of bright white diamonds that, through innovations in diamond cutting, could now be faceted into carré cuts, baguettes and other elegantly chiseled linear shapes.
Cartier’s internationally renowned offerings include the Tutti Frutti collection, which featured colorful carved gemstones inspired by Jacques’s trip to India and grew in popularity during the Art Deco years. Cartier Tutti Frutti rings — marked by a lush profusion of carved ruby and sapphire berries and blossoms amid emerald leaves offset by bright white diamonds — reflect an absolutely singular vision of how to pair colors and textures in a design as opulent as it is optimistic. Elsewhere, there was the panthère motif, which has been incorporated into everything from brooches to rings; and the Love bracelet, a minimal, modernist locking bangle inspired by medieval chastity belts that transformed fine jewelry. The Cartier Love ring was originally dotted with miniature faux screwheads that mirrored those of the groundbreaking cuff before it.
While the Cartier family sold the business following the death of Pierre in 1964, the brand continues to innovate today, renewing old hits and creating new masterpieces. For its extraordinary range of rings, watches and other adornments, Cartier is undeniably one of the most well known and internationally revered jewelers in the world among clients both existing and aspirational.
Find contemporary and vintage Cartier rings and other accessories on 1stDibs.
$6,636Sale Price|20% Off
1994 Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Ruby, Emerald & Sapphire Ring Vintage
By Cartier
Located in Conroe, TX
A striking vintage Cartier ring crafted in rich 18K yellow gold, showcasing a vibrant geometric arrangement of a square-cut ruby framed by pear-cut emeralds and sapphire accents. The...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Rose Gold Pave Diamond Love Ring
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Iconic pre-loved Cartier love ring, pave set with round brilliant cut Diamonds, crafted in 18ct rose gold, size 56. The Love collection with its iconic screw motif design is one of ...
Diamond, Rose Gold
1992 Cartier Colisee Sapphire Ring Sz 6.75 EU 54 Band 18k Yellow Gold Signed
By Cartier
Located in Torrance, CA
Vintage Cartier Colisee sapphire ring crafted in 18k yellow gold (circa 1992). Cabochon cut sapphire measures 05mm x 3.5mm. The delightful ring highlights a cabochon cut sapphir...
Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Paris Sapphire Diamond Ring French 18K Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in Fairfield, CT
Cartier Paris Blue Sapphire and Diamond Ring in 18K Yellow Gold This Cartier Paris ring features a 1.4 carat cabochon-cut blue sapphire set within a field of approximately 1.0 carat...
Sapphire, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier DZ8530 18ct Yellow Gold Wedding Band Ring, 6.80g
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
An iconic Cartier wedding band ring crafted in solid 18ct yellow gold, showcasing elegance and timeless design. Weighing approximately 6.80 grams, this classic band offers a luxuriou...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Maillon Panthère Triple Row Half-Paved Diamond 18K Gold Ring Band 53
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Maillon Panthère ring band The ring is 18K White Gold This is a triple row half-paved band There are 35 round brilliant-cut white diamonds totaling 0.53Ct E/F VVS The ring is...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
2000s Cartier Trinity Three-Gold Rolling Ring
By Cartier
Located in Roma, RM
A true icon of twentieth-century jewelry design, the Cartier Trinity ring remains one of the Maison's most enduring and recognizable creations. This elegant example from the 2000s fe...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier French Coral Chrysoprase Ring Diamond Accented 18K Yellow Gold 1990s
By Cartier
Located in Fairfield, CT
Cartier French Coral Chrysoprase Ring Diamond Accented 18K Yellow Gold 1990s This Cartier ring is made in 18K yellow gold and centers on an oval coral cabochon displaying a soft sal...
Chrysophrase, Coral, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER Maillon Panthère 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
An elegant example from Cartier's celebrated Maillon Panthère collection, this substantial 18K yellow gold ring showcases the Maison's iconic panther-inspired link motif, enhanced wi...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER Vintage Mimi Star Ring, 18K Gold & Diamonds, Circa 1990
By Cartier
Located in PARIS, FR
CARTIER Mimi Star ring in 18k three-tone gold and diamonds. Date: circa 1990. Condition: very good condition. Size: engraved 50 but fits a size 49. Width: 0.7 cm. Diamond weight: 0....
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER 18k Yellow Gold Destinée Ring with 2.70ct Diamonds, France
By Cartier
Located in PARIS, FR
Bague CARTER Destinée en or jaune 18k et diamants. Prix du neuf : 24.000 €. Condition : excellent état. Taille : 55. Largeur : 0,3 cm. Poids des diamants : 2.70 carat. Poids total : ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER Trinity Ring, 18k Three-Tone Gold, 0.96ct Diamonds, France
By Cartier
Located in PARIS, FR
CARTIER Trinity ring in 18k three-tone gold and diamonds. Original price: €10,800. Condition: excellent. Size: 47. Width of the design: 4 mm. Diamond weight: 0.96 carats. Total weigh...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Juste un Clou Ring, Classic Model — 18K Rose Gold & Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
A Cartier ring, crafted in 18k rose gold. Features the iconic Juste un Clou design, embodying personal conviction, with twenty-two brilliant-cut diamonds totaling 0.13 carats, enhanc...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
CARTIER 18K Yellow Gold Paris Nouvelle Vague Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A striking example of CARTIER’s mastery of pure form, this Paris Nouvelle Vague Ring is composed of two gracefully intersecting gold bands that create a continuous ribbon-like silhou...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Panthère Half-Pavé Ring in 18K Gold with 0.68ct Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Bethesda, MD
The panther, Cartier's iconic symbol since 1914, embodies fierce elegance and timeless sophistication. This small Panthère de Cartier ring captures the legendary spirit that Jeanne T...
Diamond
CARTIER 18K Tri-Gold Trinity Rolling Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A timeless icon of French jewelry design, this Cartier Trinity ring is crafted in 18K tri-color gold and showcases the Maison’s celebrated interlocking motif. Created in 1924, the Tr...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier 18K Trinity Tricolor Rolling Band Ring Size 6 #24499
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Cartier 18K Trinity Tricolor Gold Trinity Rolling Band Ring Size 6 An iconic Cartier design featuring three interlaced bands in 18K yellow, white and rose gold. This classic rolling...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Diamond Ruby Daphne 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Domed Ring EU53
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Diamond & Ruby 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Daphne Ring. Stunning yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 4mm centre diamond with F/G Colour and VVS clarit...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,112Sale Price|40% Off
Designer Cartier 1895 Wedding Band 18kt Yellow Gold Size 59 With Papers
By Cartier
Located in West Hempstead, NY
This designer Cartier 1895 wedding band is crafted in luxurious 18kt yellow gold and features the timeless elegance that has made the Cartier 1895 collection an enduring classic. Wit...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Large Size Cartier Blue Aquamarine Square Cushion Cut 18k White Gold Tank Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Fine Blue Aquamarine 18 Karat White Gold Large 8mm Tank Ring. Stunning white gold ring with a large 8mm tension set fine blue aquamarine. These sizes of the tank rin...
Aquamarine, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Panthère de Cartier Diamond, Emerald & Lacquer Ring
By Cartier
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Created by the renowned house of Cartier, this striking ring hails from the iconic Panthère de Cartier collection — the Maison’s enduring symbol of power, grace, and allure. Delicate...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier 18K White Gold and Diamond Love Ring Size 6.25 (53) #25400
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Cartier 18K White Gold and Diamond Love Ring Size 6.25 (53) This iconic band from Cartier's Love collection features six round brilliant cut diamonds set in polished 18K white gold....
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Cartier Stella 1992 18k Yellow Gold Burnish Diamond Band Ring Size 52
By Cartier
Located in Montclair, NJ
--Stone(s):-- (6) Natural Genuine Diamonds - Round Brilliant Cut - Burnish Bezel Set - Nice Brilliant White Diamonds Total Carat Weight: 0.30 (approx.) Material: Solid 18k Yellow Go...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$16,800Sale Price|20% Off
Cartier Diamond Trinity Rolling Band Ring 18K Yellow Gold 2.50 Carats
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
An iconic expression of elegance and symbolism, this Cartier Trinity diamond wedding band ring is masterfully crafted in 18K tri-color gold, blending yellow, white, and rose gold int...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Vivid Emerald Round 18k Tricolour Multi Tone Gold Solitaire Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Round Cut Emerald 18k Tri Colour/Multi Tone Gold Solitaire Ring. Stunning multi tone gold ring set with a fine vivid green emerald. Jewellery houses like Cartier onl...
Emerald, Yellow Gold, White Gold, Rose Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Cartier 18K White Gold Diamond and Sapphire "Lobi" Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A striking Cartier "Lobi" ring, masterfully crafted in 18K white gold and designed as a bold domed silhouette pavé-set with brilliant-cut diamonds. The sculptural surface is accented...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier 18K Snake Ring Vintage Yellow Gold Diamond Ruby Accents
By Cartier
Located in Fairfield, CT
Cartier 18K Snake Ring Vintage Yellow Gold Diamond Ruby Accents This Cartier snake ring is made in 18K yellow gold and designed as a coiled serpen...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Cartier Juste un Clou Ring, Classic Model — 18K Yellow Gold & Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
A striking and bold ring featuring a distinctive nail motif, embodying a provocative elegance. The ring is adorned with twenty-two brilliant-cut diamonds, totaling 0.13 carats, thei...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier 18ct Gold Love Ring, Polished Band, Italy, Unisex, Size 58
By Cartier
Located in Firenze, IT
The polished band with screw-head motif intervals, European Convention mark. Finger size 58 Signed Cartier, no. BVR993
Gold, 18k Gold
Cartier Platinum Engagement Ring 3.41 Carat Heart & Round Diamonds E VVS2 GIA
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Designer: CARTIER Video: Video Link Detailed Description: This enchanting vintage Cartier engagement ring is a true symbol of elegance and love. Crafted from luxurious platinum, it f...
Diamond, Platinum
Cartier Yellow Gold Onyx and Tsavorite Small Model Panthere de Cartier Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Yellow Gold Onyx and Tsavorite Small Model Panthere de Cartier Ring PRIMARY DETAILS SKU: 147850 Listing Title: Cartier Yellow Gold Onyx and Tsavorite Small Model Panthere de...
Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Round 0.25ct Diamond Ellipse 18k Yellow Gold Solitaire Band Ring
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Round Brilliant Cut Natural Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Solitaire Band Ring Stunning yellow gold ring set with a fine 0.25ct (hallmarked) natural round diamond. E/F colo...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier "Love" Ring (Small) in 18k Rose Gold - Size 5
By Cartier
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Item Information - --------------------------------------------- - Dimensions: - Length: 2.0cm - Width: 2.0cm - Height: 0.35cm - Total Weight: 3.23g - Ring Size: 5 - Materials: - M...
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Cartier Diamond Love band ring
By Cartier
Located in Addlestone, GB
The Cartier iconic Love ring, the perfect gift for any occasion. Set in a 18ct White gold wide band, punctuated by The signature screw head motif, set with round brilliant cut diamon...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Cartier White Enamel Gold Modernist Cigar Band Ring
By Cartier
Located in Greenwich, CT
Cigar bands, a loop of paper or foil wrapped around the body of a cigar, was used to advertise a brand or variety of tobacco. Gustave Bock, a European immigrant to Cuba, is credited ...
Gold, Enamel
70s Vintage Cartier Ring Sz 7 CC Logo Sterling Silver 18k Gold Band Signed
By Cartier
Located in Torrance, CA
Out of production vintage Cartier ring crafted in sterling silver & 18k yellow gold (circa 1970s). The Cartier "CC" logo in 18k yellow gold adorns the center of the ring, with the...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
Cartier Vintage 18K Yellow & White Gold Interlocking Double Band Ring Sz 7
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
A captivating Cartier Vintage Double Band Ring, embodying timeless elegance. Crafted in France circa 1994, this ring features two substantial interlocking bands, one in 18k yellow g...
18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
George L'Enfant for Cartier Ring Bracelet and Necklace Set
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Here we have a chic and stylish jewellery set from the world renowned luxury jewellery house of Cartier. Crafted from a rich 18ct yellow gold, the set includes a ring, bracelet and n...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$38,800Sale Price|20% Off
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Ruby and Diamond Ring
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
This exceptional Cartier ring is crafted in solid 18K yellow gold, fully assayed, and showcases a refined and timeless design centered around a vivid natural ruby composition. The r...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER 18k yellow white rose gold TRINITY LARGE Ring Size 57
By Cartier
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Cartier Trinity ring is a timeless icon of elegance and symbolism, crafted from intertwined bands of 18K white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. Originally design...
Cartier Destinée Platinum Solitaire GIA Certified Diamond Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A timeless symbol of love from the House of Cartier, this Cartier Destinée Engagement ring showcases the Maison’s iconic halo design, where a brilliant center diamond appears suspend...
Diamond, Platinum
Cartier 1980s Emerald and Diamond Ring in 18K Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A timeless vintage creation from Cartier, this 1980s ring showcases refined luxury and bold design. Crafted in 18k yellow gold, it features a vivid cabochon-cut emerald weighing appr...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Maillon Panthère Band Ring, 18k Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in Greenwich, CT
A flexible link band ring by Cartier, crafted in 18k yellow gold in the house's signature Maillon Panthère design. The band is built from rows of polished rectangular brick links, ar...
18k Gold
Cartier Juste un Clou Ring, Classic Model — 18K Yellow Gold & Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
A striking and bold ring featuring a distinctive nail motif, embodying a provocative elegance. The ring is adorned with twenty-two brilliant-cut diamonds, totaling 0.13 carats, thei...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$16,800Sale Price / set|20% Off
Cartier Trinity Tri-Color Gold Diamond Wedding Band Ring 2.50 CTW 18K
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
An iconic expression of elegance and symbolism, this Cartier Trinity diamond wedding band ring is masterfully crafted in 18K tri-color gold, blending yellow, white, and rose gold int...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cartier Diamond Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Daphne Ring 51
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Diamond And Emerald 18k Yellow Gold Three Stone Dome Signet Ring. 18k yellow gold Cartier ring set with a beautiful 3.5mm centre diamond with F/G Colour and VVS clar...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Italian 18k yellow gold blue and white enamel cigar band
By Cartier
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This stylish vintage Cartier Italian cigar band is a bold and refined design from the 1980’s, beautifully crafted in 18k yellow gold with blue and white enamel. The wide cigar band silhouette gives the ring a confident presence on the hand, while the enamel detail adds color, contrast, and a polished sense of sophistication. The combination of rich yellow gold and crisp enamel creates a look that feels both timeless and distinctive. The blue and white enamel brings a graphic, elegant touch to the design, giving the piece a sleek vintage character that is unmistakably Cartier. Its signed hallmark, Italy mark, and purity mark add to its collectible appeal and reflect the fine craftsmanship associated with Cartier jewelry. Sophisticated, wearable, and full of designer charm, this Cartier cigar...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Cartier C De Cartier Limited edition 150 anniversary rose gold and diamond ring
By Cartier
Located in Addlestone, GB
Cartier C De Cartier rose gold Limited edition 150th Anniversary diamond ring For every Cartier Lover, this iconic ring is a classic and must have for every jewellery wearer. The...
Diamond, Rose Gold
Cartier Small Model Trinity Band Ring in Tri-Tone 18 Karat Gold with Box
By Cartier
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This iconic Cartier Trinity ring is crafted in 18 karat yellow, white, and rose gold, featuring three interlocking bands that flow seamlessly around one another. Each band is a diffe...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Cartier Jeton Sauvage 18K WG Pavé Diamond Cocktail Ring with Box
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A bold and sculptural pavé diamond dome ring by the legendary French maison Cartier, from the coveted Jeton Sauvage collection. This striking cocktail ring features a large circular ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier French diamond 18k yellow gold Entrelacés C band
By Cartier
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Brand: Cartier Center stone: 162 round brilliant cut diamonds Weight: Approximately 1.20 cara...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER Yellow and White Diamond, Emerald, and Onyx Panthère Head Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A fierce expression of Cartier’s most iconic emblem, this extraordinary Panthère de Cartier ring is a masterpiece of sculptural artistry and bold design. Fashioned in 18K yellow gold...
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER Platinum Diamond, Sapphire and Emerald-Eyed Panther Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
An icon of Cartier’s legendary design, this captivating Panther ring embodies both strength and elegance. Fashioned in platinum, the sculptural form is fully set with a dazzling arra...
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
$36,000Sale Price|20% Off
Exquisite Cartier Destinée Platinum & Diamond Engagement Ring
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
Exquisite Cartier Solitaire The 1.21 ct center diamond is flanked by a luminous halo of round brilliant diamonds that enhance brilliance and presence, creating a classic yet modern s...
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
Vintage Cartier Round Diamond 18k Tricolour Multi Tone Gold Solitaire Ring 50
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Cartier Round Cut Diamond 18k Tri Colour/Multi Tone Gold Solitaire Ring. Multi tone gold ring set with a natural round brilliant cut diamond. Fine jewellery houses like Cart...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, White Gold, Rose Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Cartier Trinity 18K White, Yellow, & Rose Gold Pink, Yellow, Diamond Ring
By Cartier
Located in Southampton, PA
This exquisite Cartier Trinity Ring is colorful piece that will continually impress. A trio of bands come together to create one singular accessory - sparkling white Diamonds accent ...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold
$70,400Sale Price|20% Off
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Ruby Cabochon and Diamond Ring
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
An elegant ruby and diamond ring by Cartier, crafted in 18K yellow gold and bearing French hallmarks, indicative of Cartier’s Parisian production. The ring is centered with an oval ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Panthère openwork ring diamonds and emeralds with box and papers
By Cartier
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
Cartier Openwork Panthère Ring, geometric bracelet diamonds and emeralds with box and papers 18K White Gold (750/1000) Original retail...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold
CARTIER Platinum, Cushion-Cut Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A study in balance and radiance, this exceptional ring by CARTIER is centered on a magnificent 5.11-carat cushion-cut fancy yellow diamond, its soft, sunlit hue glowing with remarkab...
Diamond, Platinum
Cartier 1985 Platinum Wedding Band, Size 5.25, PT950, 3.5mm Width
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
The Cartier 1985 Platinum Wedding Band is a beautiful and timeless piece of jewelry that features a classic design and high-quality materials. The band is made from platinum, which is one of the most durable and precious metals used in jewelry...
Platinum
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. The most collectible 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.