De Beers is among the world’s largest diamond suppliers by volume. Nearly one hundred percent of the company’s revenue comes from mining and producing diamonds, and today, De Beers engagement rings, wedding rings, tennis bracelets and other pieces are widely admired by jewelry wearers near and far.
De Beers Mining Company was established as such in the 1880s by British businessman Cecil Rhodes. Initially, Rhodes provided water pumping systems to miners in South Africa before he began to purchase mines (by 1888, De Beers Mining Company owned nearly every mine in South Africa). Eventually, De Beers operated distribution and production of diamonds on a massive scale.
German-born industrialist Ernest Oppenheimer — founder of the Anglo American Corporation and a rival of De Beers in the diamond game — began to buy shares of Rhodes’s company as they became available in the early 20th century. Oppenheimer was owner and chairman of De Beers by the late 1920s.
De Beers has played a significant role in all parts of the diamond world over the years. In 1940, for example, the company partnered with the Gemological Institute of America to market the 4Cs. This system — the 4Cs being color, clarity, cut and carat weight — was established by former jeweler and founder of the GIA, Robert M. Shipley, and lays out the guidelines that determine how diamonds are graded. A lecturer with the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based advertising agency that worked with De Beers, N.W. Ayer & Son, traveled around the United States during the early 1940s to share guidance with jewelers on the 4Cs and on how to talk about diamonds with their clientele. The agency would play even a larger role in promoting diamonds in the years that followed.
Postwar engagement rings were intended to be simpler than those that preceded them — after the war, platinum was no longer reserved for military use and the precious stones in engagement rings were larger. In 1947, with the support of N.W. Ayer & Son, De Beers introduced the slogan “A diamond is forever” in a marketing campaign that emphasized a connection between diamonds and romance. This sparkling copy was penned by the agency’s copywriter Frances Gerety.
Newer engagement rings were designed with a focus on the beauty of the diamond, and the sale of diamonds soared. Diamond engagement rings became intertwined with the post–World War II marriage boom, which coincided with the ascension of specific diamond cuts.
Throughout the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s, De Beers expanded operations across the globe. In 1986 in a South African mine, the company unearthed the Centenary Diamond. One of the most famous diamonds in the world, the heart-shaped Centenary Diamond weighs 273 carats. It was unveiled in 1988 for the 100th anniversary of De Beers. Since the 1990s, rumors have swirled that De Beers sold the stone to a private buyer; the company will neither confirm nor deny the claim, citing client confidentiality.
In the early 2000s, De Beers opened stores in London, New York City, Hong Kong and elsewhere. The company is today leading an effort to prioritize philanthropic efforts as well as transparency in diamond origins.
On 1stDibs, find vintage De Beers rings, bracelets, necklaces and more.
De Beers 0.35 Carat Diamond Pendant Necklace
By De Beers
Located in London, GB
Here we have an 18ct white gold diamond pendant necklace from the world renowned diamond group, De Beers. This necklace plays host to three bright white round brilliant cut diamonds ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
De Beers Enchanted Lotus 18K Rose Gold Diamond and Mother of Pearl Pendant Neckl
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A mesmerizing and iconic authentic De Beers pendant necklace from the acclaimed Enchanted Lotus Collection.
De Beers 18K White Gold Aria 0.51ct Diamond Swirl Pendant Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A mesmerizing expression of grace and light, this authentic De Beers Aria pendant necklace captures the beautiful choreography of a dancer. Crafted in polished 18K white gold, the si...
De Beers Lotus Micropavé 0.22ct Diamond Deep Blue Enamel Medal Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A mesmerizing tribute to spiritual beauty and modern luxury, this authentic pendant necklace belongs to the iconic Enchanted Lotus Collection by the historic House of De Beers
De Beers Aura 18K White Gold Pear-Shaped Diamond Halo Pendant Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A breathtaking embodiment of light and exceptional craftsmanship, this authentic De Beers pendant necklace is from the iconic Aura collection. Perfectly complementing the aesthetic...
De Beers Portraits of Nature Butterfly 18K White‑Gold Full‑Pavé Diamond Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
De Beers Portraits of Nature Butterfly 18K White‑Gold Full‑Pavé Diamond Necklace. The butterfly design features flowing, dynamic contours and looks stunning when worn. Inclusion: ori...
De Beers Portraits of Nature Butterfly Diamond Pendant Necklace 18K White Gold
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A breathtaking piece from the iconic Portraits of Nature collection by De Beers Jewellers, this necklace captures the delicate beauty and graceful movement of a butterfly in flight. ...
White Gold
De Beers 18K White Gold Portraits of Nature Butterfly Diamond Statement Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A breathtaking and iconic authentic masterpiece from the prestigious London-based luxury house, De Beers. Part of the highly coveted Portraits of Nature collection, this exquisite ne...
De Beers Dewdrop Chain & Classic Eternity Line 18K White Gold Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
De Beers Dewdrop Chain & Classic Eternity Line Necklace, 18K White Gold Full Set with Original Box & Certificate of Authenticity
White Gold
De Beers 0.21ct Diamond 'Enchanted Lotus' Necklace.
By De Beers
Located in London, GB
From the designer De Beers comes this charming necklace from their 'Enchanted Lotus' collection. Made in 18 carat yellow gold the design features a central round brilliant diamond su...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
De Beers Yellow Gold Enchanted Lotus Green Enamel Necklace N1034710045
By De Beers
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A beautiful 18k yellow gold necklace by De Beers, from the Enchanted Lotus collection. The piece features a lotus motif pendant adorned with green enamel and set with 25 round brilli...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Diamond Fleur De Lis Design Pendant Necklace 18k White Gold
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
Fleur De Lis design diamond pendant necklace. 0.48 carats of round brilliant diamonds, approximately H/I color and SI clarity. 18-karat white gold. Accommodated with an up to date a...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Art Deco 0.22ct Diamond & 18k Yellow Gold Necklace, Circa 1940
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
An impressive vintage Art Deco 1940s 0.22 carat diamond and 18k yellow gold, 18k white gold set necklace; part of our diverse diamond jewelry collections. This stunning, fine and impressive Art Deco gold necklace has been crafted in 18k yellow gold with an 18k white gold setting. The feature setting the the center of the necklace has a stepped, geometric design embellished with six 18k white gold pavé set eight-cut diamonds. Four fully articulated, linear drops suspend from the feature setting, each ornamented with a tassel design terminal to the lower border. The diamond setting suspends from two shaped motifs via articulated swags, composed of rectangular links. The necklace secures to the reverse of an articulated chain, also composed of rectangular links, with an integrated push fit clasp, and benefits from the additional security of a hinged safety clasp. The necklace is hallmarked to the tongue of the clasp with the French hallmark for 18k gold (eagle's head) and the French lozenge...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Gregg Ruth Pear Cut Blue Sapphire & Diamond Halo Pendant Necklace 18K White Gold
By Gregg Ruth
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This sparkling diamond and sapphire pendant necklace is stunningly simple, yet undeniably beautiful. The delicate chain and dainty pendant still offer big sparkle and glamour, making...
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Diamond Cascade Necklace in 18K White Gold
By Bn Green Star
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A symphony of brilliance and grace, this magnificent diamond necklace captures the essence of timeless elegance. Expertly handcrafted in 38.6 grams of luminous 18K white gold, it sho...
Diamond, White Gold
0.35 Carat Natural Diamond Round Necklace Pendant 14 Karat White Gold G SI
By Morris & David
Located in New York, NY
0.36 Carat Natural Diamond Necklace 14K White Gold G SI 18 inches chain 100% Natural Diamonds, Not Enhanced in any way Round Cut Diamond Necklace 0.36CT G-H SI 3/8 inch in diameter ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
22K Lotus pendant
By Nebu jewelry by Youmna Elsabry
Located in Plano, TX
-Available -One of a kind -22K gold -Stamped with Nebu logo -Sold as a pendant only Introducing our exquisite one-of-a-kind lotus pendant, meticulously ...
22k Gold
0.18 CT Diamond 18K Gold Lotus Om Pendant necklace
By Oshi Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
Handcrafted OM diamond necklace is a perfect everyday wear necklace to bring inner peace and spirituality. This beautiful Hindu religious OM necklace is su...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold 35 Carats Diamond Collar Necklace
Located in New York, NY
Drape yourself in the resplendent radiance of this Triple Dot Collar Diamond Necklace, a true embodiment of luxury and sophistication. Meticulously crafted in 18k white gold, this op...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Rare Cartier Tortue Mother of Pearl & Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
By Cartier
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Cartier Tortue Mother of Pearl & Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace. Stunning yellow gold necklace featuring a tortoise shaped pendant. Mother of pearl body with ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$12,000
W 1.07 in L 1.75 in
Bugari 1990's Diamond Mother-Of-Pearl 18K White Gold Vintage Spiral Pendant
By Bulgari
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as a rectangular cushion shaped drop suspending from a swivel bail Centering a carved mother of pearl tablet measuring 30.0x 25.0 mm White to cream in body color and display...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Bulgari Serpenti Viper Slim Necklace With Full Pave Diamonds 18K White Gold
By Bulgari
Located in Aventura, FL
Bulgari Serpenti Viper slim necklace in 18 kt white gold, set with full pavé diamonds. In a tribute to its spirit animal, Bvlgari captures the power of seduction in this Serpenti Vip...
Diamond, White Gold
Bulgari Serpenti Viper Necklace With Full Pave Diamonds 18K White Gold
By Bulgari
Located in Aventura, FL
With its signature blend of pure aesthetics, enveloping shapes and charismatic flair, the Serpenti Viper 18 kt white gold necklace with full pavé diamonds is an essential interpretat...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
De Beers Infinity Collection Infinity‑Symbol Diamond Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
De Beers Infinity‑Collection Infinity‑Symbol Diamond Necklace, set with 16 diamonds with a total weight of 0.06 ct. Purchased in 2022. Accessories: original box and laboratory certif...
De Beers Classic 18K White Gold Diamond Cross Pendant Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
A symbol of timeless elegance and masterful artistry, this exquisite cross pendant necklace is a quintessential creation from De Beers, the "Home of Diamonds Since 1888." Known for s...
White Gold
De Beers Enchanted Lotus Medal Pendant 18K white gold pavé diamonds.
By De Beers
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Design: An openwork circular pendant featuring a stylized lotus flower motif with four undulating petals. Materials: Crafted from 18K white gold and set with round brilliant micropav...
Diamond, White Gold
De Beers Yellow Gold Talisman Charm Necklace N10341200R042
By De Beers
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A beautiful 18k yellow gold necklace by De Beers, from their Talisman collection. The necklace features 5 textured charms, each set with rough and polished diamonds with an approxima...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
De Beers Rose Gold Talisman Charm Necklace N10341600R042
By De Beers
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A beautiful 18k rose gold necklace by De Beers, from their Talisman collection. The necklace features 5 textured charms, each set with rough and polished diamonds with an approximate...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
De Beers White Gold Diamond Enchanted Lotus Pendant N10219400A045
By De Beers
Located in Mayfair, London, London
An elegant 18k white gold diamond set pendant by De Beers from the Enchanted Lotus collection. The pendant, inspired by the Lotus flower, is set with 37 round brilliant micropavé dia...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
De Beers White Gold Wildflowers Diamond Necklace 2.10ct
By De Beers
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A stunning 18k white gold diamond necklace from the De Beers Wildflowers Collection. This piece features seven delicate flower motifs that graduate in size, each set with round brill...
Diamond, White Gold
De Beers White Gold Arpeggia Three Line Diamond Necklace 19.4ct G+/VS+
By De Beers
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A luxurious white gold De Beers diamond necklace from the Arpeggia collection. The necklace comprises 3 rows, set with a total of 469 round b...
Diamond, White Gold
Vintage De Beers Diamond Line Riviere Necklace in 18k White Gold
By De Beers
Located in London, England
A beautiful vintage De Beers diamond riviere necklace set in 18k white gold. The necklace is composed of a staggering total of 218 diamonds all of wh...
Diamond, White Gold
De Beers 18ct Yellow Gold Diamond Talisman Pendant
By De Beers
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
De Beers 18ct Yellow Gold Diamond Talisman Pendant Brand De Beers Model Diamond Talisman Pendant Product Type Pendant Serial Number A4**** Material(s) 18ct Yellow Gold Gemstone Diam...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
De Beers Talisman Collection Diamond Pendant Necklace = 1.38 Carat Total Weight
By De Beers
Located in New York, NY
This incredible acquisition by the house of J. Birnbach features a signed De Beers pendant necklace from the esteemed Talisman collection. Set with 29 round brilliant cut diamonds of...
Diamond, 18k Gold
De Beers 18K White Gold 21.50 ct Diamond Flower Motif Necklace
By De Beers
Located in Southampton, PA
This gorgeous De Beers necklace is a spectacular statement piece. It is crafted from 18K white gold that features flowers throughout the necklace that are set with a total of 21.50 c...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold