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Diamond Necklaces

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Gemstone: Diamond
Style: Artisan
The Shanti Compass Amulet 18K Fairmined Yellow Gold & Diamond
Located in London, GB
Introducing the mega Shanti Compass pendant - the bold, beautiful big sister to our mini compass amulet. Designed as an empowering reminder for you to navigate your own path. It in...
Category

2010s British Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Zorab Creation 18 kt. Gold Necklace with 4 ct. Diamonds & 23 ct. Semi Pr Stones
Located in Antwerp, BE
Zorab Creation 18 kt. Gold Necklace with 4 ct. Diamonds & 23 ct. Semi Precious Stones Necklace: 20 Grey Tahiti pearls Diamonds: Black diamonds: Black diamonds together 1.3 ct. Whit...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Amethyst, Citrine, Diamond, Pearl, Tourmaline, Gold, 18k Gold

18 kt. White Gold Heart Necklace With 1 ct. White & Black Diamonds
Located in Antwerp, BE
Gorgeous 18 kt. White Gold Heart Necklace With 1 ct. White & Black Diamonds A real Piece of Art Diamonds: White brilliant cut diamonds, together approx. 0.69 ct. black diamonds, ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

White Diamond, Black Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Hirsh Wildflower Campion Diamond Pendant
Located in London, GB
Found in British woodlands, a Campion flower is known throughout history as a symbol of gentleness. Taking inspiration from this beautiful flower, the Hirsh Campion pendant is handma...
Category

2010s British Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

The Kim Pendant with Diamonds in 22k Gold by Tagili
Located in New York, NY
The Kim Pendent is hand made in 22k gold and features a string of diamonds running through it for added glamour. The unique shape stands out on its own and organically set diamonds...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 22k Gold

Melting Ice 18k Yellow Gold Tanzanite Drop Necklace by MadStone
Located in El Dorado Hills, CA
Specs: 18k yellow gold necklace with 1.25 carats of tanzanite and 0.15 carats of white diamond. Story: The Melting Ice collection by MadStone designer Kerri Halpern draws influence...
Category

2010s American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Tanzanite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Allegra Sunburst Pendant in 22k Gold, by Tagili
Located in New York, NY
The Allegra Sunburst Pendant is a multidimensional and textured pendant carved in 22k gold. The Sunburst Pendant features a high polish with contrasting sand blasted background for a...
Category

2010s American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 22k Gold

Allegra Crescent Moon Pendant in 22k Gold, by Tagili
Located in New York, NY
The Allegra Crescent Moon Pendant is handcarved in 22k gold. The Crescent Moon features Tagili Designs signature finish, is intricately hand carved and finished with 3 diamonds aroun...
Category

2010s American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 22k Gold

Paul Amey 18k Gold, Diamond and Natural Garnet Earring and Pendant Set
Located in Tewantin, Queensland
Paul Amey’s natural polished garnet pendant and earring set is elegantly simple yet sophisticated. The natural garnet pendant is created from 18K yellow gold with a 3pt round white ...
Category

2010s Australian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Garnet, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum

Decorative 5-Strand Cultured Pearl Necklace with Diamonds in Silver-Topped Gold
Located in Lucerne, CH
This highly decorative and romantic necklace consists of 5 strands of cultured pearls and black chalcedony beads ranging from 3.2 to 3.7 mm i...
Category

20th Century Unknown Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Chalcedony, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

Aphrodite Salt and Pepper Diamond Pendant, by Tagili
Located in New York, NY
The Aphrodite diamond rose cut pendant features 19 rose cut diamonds scattered throughout in an organic 22k gold setting. Complete with Tagili Designs signature finish, hand made and...
Category

2010s American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 22k Gold

Gorgeous 18kt White Gold Diamond Pendant Necklace & Black Mother of Pearl
Located in Antwerp, BE
Unique and Gorgeous 18kt White Gold Pendant Necklace With Diamonds And Black Mother of Pearl Comes with a stunning 18kt white gold double chain of 40 cm. Diamonds: approx. 150 bri...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold

18kt Pendant wt 4.3ct Black&White Diamonds Can be Transformed into a Triple Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Very Unique and Special Necklace Pendant with Black and White Diamonds, Can be Transformed into a Triple Ring! Comes with a gorgeous 18kt white gold chain with 6 little diamonds ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

White Diamond, Black Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

AJD Magnificent Rubelite and Diamond Collar in Rich 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Raleigh, NC
Beautiful Brazilian Handmade 18K Yellow Gold Collar with Trillion Red Brazilian Rubelite (13x13mm) surrounded, est 7.5 ct, with pave diamond est 0.65ctw H/I color, SI clarity, work....
Category

1980s Brazilian Artisan Vintage Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Rubelite, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Gold, Yellow Gold

18kt Gold Flower Pendant with 2.83ct Diamonds, 4.40ct Sapphire, Pearl
Located in Antwerp, BE
Amazing 18kt white Gold Flower Pendant / Necklace with 2.83ct Diamonds, 4.40ct Sapphire, Pearl A real work of art as well from our goldsmith as from the setter to make the color gra...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold

Hirsh Opera Length Diamond Necklace
Located in London, GB
A stunning shimmering opera length necklace measuring 37 inches in total, made up of pretty daisy style clusters of collection quality diamonds. - 888 wh...
Category

2010s British Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

22k Gold Reversible Kashi Pearl and Diamond Necklace, by Tagili
Located in New York, NY
22k gold reversible Kashi Pearl and Diamond Pendent is set in an organic bezel with Tagili Designs Signature finish. The diamonds set in the pearl elevates your style to the next lev...
Category

2010s American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Pearl, Diamond, 22k Gold

18ct Yellow Gold and Diamond Necklace "Maternity Star"
Located in AGNES WATER, AU
"Maternity Star" 18ct yellow gold featuring a cabochon cut (dome-shaped) amethyst center stone surrounded by nine white diamonds (TDW 0.22ct), which is a reflection on the miracle ...
Category

2010s Unknown Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

18kt White Gold Gem Set Golf Club Bag Set with Diamonds & Precious Stones, Hange
Located in Antwerp, BE
18kt White Gold Gem set Golf Club Bag Set With Diamond, Ruby, Emerald,Sapphire Hanger/Brooch Amazing work of art pendant/brooch with beautiful invisible...
Category

20th Century Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Citrine, Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold

Aquamarine and Diamond Mixed Metal Sterling Silver Statement Necklace
Located in Oslo, 03
This aquamarine and diamond necklace is 18 inches long with an additional 1.5 inch of extension chain and it has a hook clasp. The pendant (i.e. bottom two stones) measure 2.75 inch...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Aquamarine, Diamond, Gold Plate, Sterling Silver

3.2 CTs VS1 Rose Cut Diamond, 18K Gold Ring
Located in Monrovia, CA
Beautiful, original, one of a kind ring in 18K solid gold and 3.2cts of rose cut VS1 quality diamonds. I always charge all of my pieces with Reiki, which is the Japanese art of e...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Seahorse pendant in 18Kt gold Keshi pearl diamonds and sapphires
Located in Bussolengo, Verona
The elongated and distinctive shape of that keshi pearl inspired me to make a seahorse. I created with wax and then cast in 18Kt white gold, the head, tail and dorsal fin. The eyes a...
Category

2010s Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Black Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Marina J. Sizeless Woven Pearl Sautoir with Diamonds & Solid 14k Yellow Gold
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Beautiful and elegant classic Sautoir by Marina J. This Sautoir features perfect seed Pearls all intricately woven together into a fine lace like design. Measuring 42 inches long san...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Natural Golden Keshi Pearl and Diamond Pendant with Multi-Strand Gold Chain
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This exquisite necklace features a large, natural gold keshi pearl with breathtaking color and luster! A natural gold pearl is both rare and valuable, particularly one as fine as th...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary North American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Natural Pearl, White Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gol...

Handcraft Pheasant 14 Karat White Gold Diamonds Ruby Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
For any problems related to some materials contained in the items that do not allow shipping and require specific documents that require a particular period, please contact the selle...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold

Coral 18 Carat white Gold Onyx Diamonds Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
The Scala Gioielli & Figli is pleased to announce to all its customers who purchase outside the European Community an additional 10% discount from the list price on all its items. Th...
Category

1990s Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, Gold

Handcraft Coral 18 Karat White Gold Diamonds Onyx Drop Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
For any problems related to some materials contained in the items that do not allow shipping and require specific documents that require a particular period, please contact the selle...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold

14kt Yellow Gold Sparkly Pear Shaped Cluster Diamond 18" Necklace
Located in Las Vegas, NV
This 14kt Yellow Gold Sparkly Pear Shaped Diamond Cluster necklace is the ideal piece to add some sparkle to your jewelry collection. Effortlessly adding elegance to any outfit, this...
Category

Early 2000s Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

Garnet Diamond Yellow Gold Pendant
Located in Trumbull, CT
Trillion shape garnet (approximately 6.5ct) is framed by halo of white diamond. Set in 14K yellow gold and has a decorative under-gallery. Birth stone of January, this simple yet ele...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Garnet, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold

Coral Diamonds Emeralds Sapphires 14 Karat Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
Spectacular pendant necklace made of 14K yellow gold, with an engraved coral face of a woman supporting a structure made up of gold ornaments and colored stones that surround another...
Category

1990s European Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Emerald, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Starfish Turquoise Diamonds 14 Karat Yellow Gold Brooch And Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
This pendant and brooch combo is a magnificent showcase of fine jewelry craftsmanship, blending the timeless beauty of 14-karat yellow gold with the elegance of the sea. Designed in ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Turquoise, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Australian Opal 18 Karat Yellow Gold Diamonds Coral Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
Magnificent necklace with a pendant depicting a cute owl resting on a coral branch, made of 18k yellow gold, many diamonds set on the tail feathers, the owl was engraved on an Austra...
Category

1990s European Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Cross Diamonds 9 Karat Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
This exquisite 1940s cross pendant, crafted in 9-karat yellow gold, carries the unchanged luster of years past. Set with old-cut diamonds, each stone is masterfully embedded, enhanci...
Category

1940s Italian Artisan Vintage Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold, 9k Gold

Cameo Coral Diamonds 14 Karat Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
Crafted with a passion for tradition and a keen eye for detail, this enchanting pendant is a testament to the timeless beauty of hand-carved craftsmanship. The pendant features a str...
Category

1950s Italian Artisan Vintage Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

Long and Flexible Vintage Artisan Crafted Gold, Turquoise and Diamond Pendant
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This unique artisan imagined, vintage pendant is crafted in 18k gold. It is set with 29 natural turquoise cabochons, and topped with a wishbone shaped finial, set with 30 brilliant c...
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Gold

Cross Diamonds Aquamarine 9 Karat Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
The beauty of tradition and the richness of detail converge in this splendid cross pendant from the 1900s. Crafted in 9-karat yellow gold and 800-millesimal silver, this cross is a t...
Category

Early 1900s Italian Artisan Antique Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Aquamarine, Yellow Gold, 9k Gold, Silver

Coral Lapis Diamonds 18 Karat Yellow Gold Brooch And Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
This exquisite brooch/pendant is a wearable piece of art that reflects the opulence and elegance of a blend of precious stones and metals. Crafted in a harmonious mix of 18 karat yel...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Coral, Lapis Lazuli, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

18 Karat Golden Necklace with Carved Coral Pendant and 0.70 Carat Diamonds
Located in Antwerp, BE
18 kt Yellow Golden Necklace With Hand Carved Coral Pendant And 0.70 Carat Diamonds Diamonds: 30 brilliant cut diamonds, together 0.70 ct Materi...
Category

20th Century Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Coral Onyx Diamonds 14 Karat Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
This 14-karat yellow gold pendant is a stunning display of classical elegance and contemporary finesse. It features a beautifully carved coral woman's face, a traditional cameo that ...
Category

Early 1900s Italian Artisan Antique Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Turquoise Diamonds 14 Karat Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
For any problems related to some materials contained in the items that do not allow shipping and require specific documents that require a particular period, please contact the selle...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Turquoise, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

Onyx Diamonds Coral 18 Karat White Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
This striking pendant necklace in 18-karat white gold is a bold statement piece that effortlessly captures the essence of both modern style and ancient symbolism. The pendant is ador...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold

Diamond Horse Shoe Diamond Necklace
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite necklace is meticulously crafted from 22k gold, a rich and luxurious material known for its deep, warm color. The 22k gold is expertly formed into the classic horsesho...
Category

2010s American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 22k Gold

Marina J. Black & Grey Pearl Sautoir with Diamond Ombre Tassels
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Stunning Sautoir by Marina J. This piece is made with all natural Pearls, Gold Plated Silver & Diamonds. Measuring 50 inches sans Tassels, this open Sautoir is made with Grey and Bl...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Gold Plate, Silver

Handcraft Coral 18 Karat White Gold Diamonds Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
For any problems related to some materials contained in the items that do not allow shipping and require specific documents that require a particular period, please contact the selle...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Opal Onyx Diamonds 18 Karat White Gold Drop Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
This stunning 18-karat white gold necklace features a pendant that elegantly combines timeless design with exquisite craftsmanship. The pendant boasts a sleek onyx plate that provide...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Onyx, Opal, 18k Gold, White Gold

18k Gold Diamond Mandala Necklace, handmade, one of a kind.
Located in Monrovia, CA
One only, totally handmade, solid gold Mandala necklace in solid 18k yellow gold. Heavy, very substantial. With over 3.5 CT’s of rose cut genuine VS1 diamonds. Comes with a 18” handm...
Category

2010s American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Coral Onyx Turquoise Diamonds 14 Karat Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
Elegance and sophistication merge in this geometric pendant crafted in 14-karat yellow gold, a piece distinguished by its unique composition and the pairing of natural materials. A p...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Onyx, Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Turquoise Diamonds 18 Karat White Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
This elegant necklace is a statement piece fashioned from 18-karat white gold, featuring a pendant with a vibrant turquoise sphere that adds a pop of color and a touch of natural bea...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, White Gold

Pearls Coral Onyx Diamonds 18 Karat White Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Marcianise, IT
This exquisite necklace, artfully crafted in 18-karat white gold, presents a pendant that is a symphony of natural beauty and sophistication. Gracefully suspended, the pendant featur...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Coral, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold

Arrow Shaped Baguette Diamond Pendant Necklace Made in 18k Rose Gold
Located in New York, NY
18KT:6.554g,D:1.90ct,
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Mid-Century White Gold Necklace with Diamonds
Located in Esch-Sur-Alzette, LU
The Mid-Century White Gold Necklace with Diamonds is a timeless piece of jewelry that exudes elegance and sophistication. Crafted from lustrous 18kt white gold, this necklace feature...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Dainty Diamond Ruby Necklace 14k Solid Yellow Gold, Bride To Be Gift For Her
Located in Houston, TX
Ruby and Diamond Necklace in 14K Gold studded with round cut ruby in a diamond studded circle. This stunning piece of jewelry instantly elevates a casual look or dressy outfit. Ruby...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Ice Diamond Choker Necklace Made In 18k White Gold & Silver
Located in New York, NY
18KT:1.900g,D:13.35ct,SI:31.532g,
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, Silver

61.26 Carat Kunzite and Diamond Pendant Enhancer in 18k White and Yellow Gold
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This beautiful statement necklace features a spectacular 61.26 carat kunzite cushion with stunning pink color! The gem is surrounded by fine diamonds in an original pendant that is b...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary North American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Kunzite, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold

3.54ct Pink Tourmaline Diamond Pendant, Lynn Kathyrn Miller, Lynn K Designs
Located in San Jose, CA
Adorn yourself with this exquisite pink tourmaline and 18k pendant accented with a brilliant white diamond hand fabricated by Lynn Kathyrn Miller, owner of Lynn K Designs. Faceted t...
Category

2010s American Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Gold

Vintage French Cross 18 Karat Yellow Gold with Diamonds
Located in Esch-Sur-Alzette, LU
This beautiful pendant features a satin finish. Crafted in 18kt yellow gold, this cross is of French production and is decorated with 6 brilliant cut diamonds for a total of 0.18ct. ...
Category

Late 20th Century French Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Mid Century Estate 4 Carat Diamond and Sapphire Drop Necklace
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
A most interesting Mid Century modern diamond and sapphire drop necklace; part diamonds by the yard, part V necklace. Subtle enough to wear everyday yet dramatic enough to wear on th...
Category

1980s Artisan Vintage Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Pink Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Platinum

18 kt. White Gold Akoya Degradé Pearls and Diamonds 3 Strand Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
Magnificant Akoya Pearls 3 Strand Degradé Necklace With 18 kt. White Gold Lenti Lock with Diamonds Pearls: Amazing Perfect 176 Akoya pearls, diameter biggest pearl 9.6 mm Material...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Diamond Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, White Gold

Shop Vintage and Antique Diamond Necklaces on 1stDibs

Whether you're pairing an elegant drop necklace with an evening gown for a fancy dinner or layering a solitaire pendant with your favorite gold or silver chains, you can count on the fact that antique diamond necklaces will elevate any ensemble.

Pendant necklaces worn by royalty and nobles conferred wealth and prestige in ancient times. Wearing jewelry has since become far more widespread, and today, personal adornment is all about expression: Luxury diamond necklaces — Cartier diamond necklaces, Harry Winston diamond necklaces and other iterations — exude confidence and can symbolize the celebratory nature of a deep romantic relationship. (Diamond lockets, for example, which feature a motif that first emerged in the 1800s, are frequently shaped like a heart.) 

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.

In the late 19th century, "King of Diamonds" Charles Lewis Tiffany — founder of famed luxury house Tiffany & Co. — purchased a 287-carat yellow diamond discovered in the Kimberely Mine in South Africa. The stone was the largest yellow diamond ever mined, and was fashioned by gemologist George Kunz into a cushion-cut brilliant of 128 carats. Kunz gave it a total of 90 facets: 48 on the pavilion, 40 on the crown, plus the table and culet. Breakfast at Tiffany’s fans may recognize the stone from promotional photos for the film — actress Audrey Hepburn wore it as part of the Jean Schlumberger-designed Ribbon Rosette necklace.

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. 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).

Grading aside, a beloved diamond necklace is going to deliver the perfect amount of sparkle and joy every time you put it on, whether it's an emerald and diamond necklace, a classic diamond choker or some other similar accessory.  

Find antique and vintage diamond necklaces today on 1stDibs.

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