Art Nouveau — generally considered to have begun in the late 1800s and ended with the start of World War I — was a movement in the decorative arts that drew inspiration from natural forms, such as trees, flowers and, of course, the human figure. The three main themes present in Art Nouveau jewelry and watches were flora, fauna and women.
Art Nouveau, which reached its pinnacle in the year 1900, spawned from artists who rejected the historicism of their predecessors to create an entirely new visual vocabulary. As compared to Art Deco jewelry’s geometric patterns and sharp lines, the extravagant style of antique Art Nouveau jewelry is characterized by curvilinear forms and whiplash lines, vibrant materials and dramatic imagery.
The first art and design movement of the 20th century, Art Nouveau was also a reaction against the Industrial Revolution, and took its inspiration from the theories of the Symbolists, the art of the Pre-Raphaelites, the ideas of John Ruskin and his follower William Morris and, most importantly Japanese crafts. (The country was a fertile ground for inspiration after it was opened to the West in 1854.) The Art Nouveau style touched all manners of the arts, including the most exultant jewelry.
Nature was a favorite muse for artists going back to the 18th and 19th centuries, but in the hands of 20th-century artists, it was depicted in new ways. For example, a withering flower was considered just as beautiful as one in full bloom. Winged creatures, such as insects and birds, were also a popular subject. Dragonflies and butterflies were particular favorites because they morphed so dramatically in different life stages.
This was also a reference to women, whose role in society was evolving. It was not uncommon to see a piece of jewelry that would at once reference a woman as a winged creature (think René Lalique’s famous Dragonfly brooch, circa 1897–98, at the Gulbenkian Collection in Lisbon). However, just as women’s roles were ambiguous, so was their image, as the femmes nouvelle were simultaneously eroticized and romanticized.
In addition to Lalique, vital figures in Art Nouveau jewelry included Louis Comfort Tiffany in the United States, Vladimir Soloviev, who designed jewelry for Peter Carl Fabergé in Russia, Fuset Grau of Spain, Karl Rothmuller of Germany and Philippe Wolfers of Belgium.
Art Nouveau jewelers used every “canvas” imaginable, looking beyond brooches and necklaces to belt buckles, fans, tiaras, dog collars (a type of choker necklace), pocket watches, corsages and hair combs. Multicolored gems and enamel could complete this vision better than diamonds. Jewelers also favored pearls, particularly baroque pearls, for their large size and irregular shape. However, opal was the most popular stone — its iridescence harmonized perfectly with the enamel, and it could be carved into any shape. Art Nouveau jewelry was primarily set in yellow gold.
Find a range of antique Art Nouveau jewelry today on 1stDibs.
Jugendstil toi et moi pearl and pear shaped old cut diamond
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
This antique Jugendstil toi et moi 14k rosé and white gold, on side set with a 5.8 mm. pearl to a flower motif set with rose and Swiss cut diamonds, and the other side set with an ol...
Diamond, Pearl, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
Art Nouveau / Belle Epoque 1900 Diamond Ring in 18Karat Gold
Located in OVIEDO, AS
Art Nouveau / Belle Epoque Diamond ring in 18 Karat Gold. Ca. 1900 Belle Epoque (Spanish or French) Bypass Diamond ring mounted in 18 karat ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
Antique 15ct Yellow Gold, Art Nouveau Sapphire and Pearl Target Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Sapphire and Pearl Target Ring 15ct Gold Tested Circa 1920s Introducing a stunning 15ct yellow gold Art Nouveau ring with a target-style setting. The centre features a mes...
Pearl, Sapphire, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold
Spectacular Substantial Art Nouveau Diamond 14K Yellow Gold Double Snake Ring
Located in New York, NY
Beautiful large scale antique Art Nouveau period double serpent diamond and 14K yellow gold ring. Late 19th Century The two snakes artfully, intricately coiled to form a striking d...
White Diamond, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Leto Lama IGI Certified 4.26 Cts Emerald with diamonds engagement cocktail ring
Located in London, GB
A one-of-a-kind cocktail or alternative engagement ring showcasing a striking 4.26-carat bluish-green Zambian emerald, IGI certified. The centre stone is secured with eight claws, c...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Art Nouveau 18k Gold Cabochon Garnet Unisex Ring, Italy, Circa 1900
Located in Firenze, IT
Period: 1900's Ring size: 8 Weight: 3,76 gr The ring, dating back to the early 20th century, can be ascribed to Art Nouveau goldsmith production. In fact, the 18-karat yellow gold s...
Garnet, Gold, 18k Gold
925 Sterling Silver Marquise Cut Orange Sapphire Two Stone Ring with Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
Marquise Cut Orange Sapphire Two Stone Ring with Diamonds in sterling silver featuring natural sapphire of 3 carat and diamonds of 0.08 carats. The gorgeous handcrafted ring goes wit...
Diamond, Sapphire, Silver, Sterling Silver
8.07 Carats Certified Padparadscha Sapphire No Heat Sri Lanka Solitaire Ring
Located in Hung Hom, HK
An extraordinary investment opportunity for the discerning collector. This magnificent solitaire ring features a monumental 8.07-carat Padparadscha sapphire, the rarest and most cove...
White Diamond, Sapphire, Padparadscha Sapphire , 18k Gold
6.15 Carat Natural Aquamaring Cocktail Ring Made in 925 Sterling Silver for Her
Located in New York, NY
6.15 Carat Natural Aquamaring Cocktail Ring in sterling silver. You shall need these cocktail ring to make a statement with your look. These cocktail ring create a sparkling, luxurio...
Aquamarine, Silver, Sterling Silver
Art Nouveau 18k Yellow Gold Green Moissanite and Diamond ring - by NOOI JEWELRY
Located in Dueville, IT
Art Nouveau 18k Yellow Gold Green Moissanite and Diamond ring - made by NOOI JEWELRY This is a Made to order item 3-5 weeks from the payment ( August 6 to 7 weeks ) Please messag...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Estate 14K Yellow Gold Art Nouveau Lady Face Ring - VHK#731A
Located in Hicksville, NY
Estate 14K Yellow Gold Art Nouveau Lady Face Ring - VHK#731A Year: 1910 Item Details: Ring Size: 7 (Sizable) Metal Type: 14k yellow gold [Hallmarked, and Tested] Weight: 6.8 grams Ba...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Certified Columbian Emerald Ring 2.30ctw Emerald 14K Solid Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Delhi, DL
*DETAILS- -Gross weight- 1.710 gram ------------------------------------------------- - Gold Purity: 14k ( 585 ) (Hallmark) - Gold Color: Yellow -----------------------------------...
Emerald, Yellow Gold
Antique Art Nouveau 18k Gold Ring — Two Pearls & Old-Cut Diamond Circa 1910
Located in Nicosia, Cyprus
Art Nouveau Pearl & Diamond Ring – Circa 1910 A refined Art Nouveau ring, crafted in 18k gold circa 1910, combining pearls and diamonds in a composition of exceptional delicacy. Ope...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold
Antique Toi et Moi Ring in 21k Gold with Two Pear-Shaped Diamonds, GIA Certified
Located in Miami Beach, FL
This exceptional Toi et Moi ring is crafted in 21k gold and set with two antique pear-shaped diamonds, each independently certified by the Gemological Institute of America. Thoughtfu...
Diamond, Gold
GIA Certified 3.49ct Flawless Round Diamond Halo Ring by Ferrucci, NYC
By FERRUCCI
Located in New York, NY
GIA Certified 1.06 Round diamond, D color, Flawless clarity, with Triple Excellent Specs. a stunning classic, incredibly beautiful diamond set in a hand made Double Round Halo diamon...
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
Antique 18ct Yellow & White Gold Art Nouveau Oval Amethyst Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Amethyst Ring 18ct Yellow & White Gold Tested Circa 1910-1920 This exquisite 18ct two-tone gold Art Nouveau ring beautifully captures the essence of the era with its elega...
Amethyst, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Nouveau 18K Yellow Gold Turquoise Cabochon Ring, France Circa 1910
Located in Firenze, IT
A turquoises and yellow gold ring in the shape form with turquoise cabochons. Frame in worked 18K yellow gold. French work. Size 6 3/4...
Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
A Natural Pearl And Old Cut Diamond Ring Circa 1910
Located in Firenze, IT
The 7.5mm natural pearl between two old brilliant-cut diamonds, diamonds approx. 0.50cts total. Mounted in platinum and 18kt yellow gold. Ring size approx 8 Weight: 2.9gr.
Diamond, Natural Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Antique Art Nouveau Gargoyle Ring 18k Gold - Ruby Eyes & Diamond Mouth - Circa
Located in Nicosia, Cyprus
Discover a rare piece of French history with this extraordinary Art Nouveau gargoyle ring (circa 1910). Handcrafted in solid 18k yellow gold, the ring fe...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 18ct Gold Stamped Art Nouveau Diamond & Natural Pearl Peacock Bird Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Art Nouveau Bird Ring 18ct Yellow Gold Stamped Circa 1900 This exquisite 18ct gold Art Nouveau bird ring is a true masterpiece. The ring features a beautifully crafted pe...
Diamond, Natural Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold
Art Nouveau 1911 Star Sapphire 18 Karat Yellow Gold Antique Unisex Griffon Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Centering a round shaped sapphire cabochon - milky purple in color and displaying a six rayed asterism Weighing approximately 4.16 carat total - flush set in a highly rendered groove...
Purple Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 18ct Gold Art Nouveau Diamond Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Art Nouveau Ring 18ct Yellow & White Gold Tested Circa 1900 Fabulous Art Nouveau Statement Ring. A Beautiful Design of Gold & Diamond Swirls & Curves. Set with Approx 0.6...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
1910 Art Nouveau 18kt Gold & Platinum Diamonds Ring
Located in Aventura, FL
This delicate circa 1910s Art Nouveau ring is crafted in 18kt yellow gold and platinum, accented with three natural old mine-cut diamonds with approximately 0.10 carats total weight ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum, Enamel
3.35 Carat Total Weight Antique Cushion Brilliant Art Nouveau Engagement Ring
Located in New York, NY
This is a one-of-a-kind, made-to-order custom piece. Please do not complete your purchase until your central diamond has been selected, the metal type has been finalized, and any de...
Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum
Art Nouveau GIA 1.60ct Old Mine Diamond Crossover "Toi et Moi" 18K Gold Ring
Located in New York, NY
1914 Art Nouveau 1.60ct Antique Old Mine cut Diamond 18K Gold Crossover "Toi et Moi" Engagement, Right Hand or Pinky Ring, GIA & EGL certified. Meet "Her," a captivating 1914 creati...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
Art Nouveau Moonstone 14 Karat Yellow Gold Antique Foliate Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Centering an oval shaped moonstone cabochon measuring 14.0 x 10.0 mm Translucent colorless body and displaying vivid blue adularescence Bezel set and flanked by grooved foliate motif...
Moonstone, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18k Gold & Platinum Old Mine Cut Diamond Ring Size 5
Located in Miami, FL
18k Gold and Platinum Diamond Ring Total Weight: 2.3g Diamond Approx. 0.3ct Old Mine Cut White Diamond Ring Size: 5 Face Measurements: 0.69in x 0.42in Sizable: Yes
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Opal Gold Ring Polychrome Gem Natural Harlequin Opal Unisex
Located in Berlin, DE
18K yellow gold ring with doublet of a natural black opal on a petrified wood base opal origin - Australia opal measurements - 0.12 х 0.35 х 0.94 ...
Black Opal, Opal, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Certified Real Natural AAA Emerald Sterling silver white gold-plated ring
Located in Delhi, DL
Royal Real natural emerald 925 silver white gold-plated ring consists of: Gross weight- 4.200grams Gemstone name- Emerald Gemstone type- Natural real Metal- Silver Metal purity- 92...
Emerald, Gold Plate, Sterling Silver
Early 20th Century 2.4ct Old Cut Diamond Crossover Ring, 18K Gold
Located in Firenze, IT
Diamond Crossover Ring early 20th century holding two old cut diamonds weighing approximately 2.4ct, in a setting of old cut diamonds. 18K yellow gold and platinum setting. Size 6 1...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
GIA Certified 5.34 Carat Madagascar Pink Sapphire Diamond 18k White Gold Ring
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Looking for the perfect gift for your loved ones? Look no more! Our pink sapphire 5.34 carats set in 18K white gold ring with 0.94 carats diamonds with GIA report is a real gem. Fall in love with the sparkle of this beautiful purplish pink sapphire loose. This sapphire gemstone is the best of its kind, absolutely stunning as well as rare. This pink sapphire gem...
Diamond, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
White Gold Ring Dark Pink Sapphire Diamond Filigree Art Nouveau 1920's
Located in Wallkill, NY
Lovely 1920's 14K White Gold Ring. Dark Pink Lab Created Sapphire with Diamonds on each side. The ring is a size 6.5 and can be sized by us or your je...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
Antique European Ring Diamonds solid 18K Gold Ø 9.75 US / 2.8gr
Located in SE
Beautiful Antique Ring featuring intricate design in solid Yellow and Platinum with one old European cut and 18 rose cut Diamonds. The Crown has inter-twisting bands with a top in P...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Certified Emerald Gold Ring 2.70ctw Emerald 14K Solid Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Delhi, DL
*DETAILS- (ITEM no=PJER27) - Gold Purity: 14k ( 585 ) (Hallmark) - Gold Color: Yellow ------------------------------------------------- -Gemstone-Natural Emerald (Real) CERTIFIED - ...
Emerald, Yellow Gold
Vintage Art Nouveau Style Old European Cut Diamond Engagement Ring in Platinum
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Step into timeless elegance with this enchanting Art Nouveau-style ring, handcrafted in platinum. At its center is a captivating old 2.42 carat European cut diamond, surrounded by in...
Diamond, Platinum
Art Nouveau Antique 1.24 Ct Diamond Gold Unisex Ring
Located in Chicago, IL
Made in Russia in the 1890s. This very fine Art Nouveau 14K gold ring features an excellent old cushion cut diamond diagonally set in the center. The diamond is bright white and cle...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold
Certified Real Natural AAA Ruby Diamond Sterling silver white gold-plated ring
Located in Delhi, DL
Royal Floral ruby 925 silver ring consists of: Gross weight- 3.400grams Diamond- Excellent cut diamonds Gemstone name- Ruby Gemstone type- Natural real Metal- Silver Metal purity...
Ruby, Diamond, Gold Plate, Sterling Silver
Antique 1910 Art Nouveau Pearl Ring - 18k Gold / Platinum
Located in Nicosia, Cyprus
A magnificent witness to the French Art Nouveau era (circa 1910). This antique ring is crafted in 18k yellow gold and platinum, showcasing the organic, flowing lines characteristic of the period. At its center sits a lustrous 5.3mm pearl, beautifully complemented by approximately 0.80 carats of Old European cut diamonds. These diamonds are estimated at F/G color and VS clarity. Remark: Although unsigned, this ring displays stylistic features consistent with the known work of André Rambour...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Platinum
Art Nouveau 18k Gold Ring with Diamonds & Sapphire
Located in Aventura, FL
Experience the enchanting beauty of this Art Nouveau ring, meticulously crafted in 18k yellow gold. This exquisite piece features a natural oval light blue sapphire weighing approxim...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
J.E. Caldwell Art Nouveau No Heat Ceylon Sapphire 14K Gold Antique Unisex Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Centering an oval-shaped sapphire cabochon weighing approximately 10.02 carats total - transparent medium blue Natural Ceylon (Sri Lankan) in origin and displaying no indications of ...
Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 1.87 Carat No Heat Burma Sapphire & 1.17 Carat Diamond Ring
Located in Hung Hom, HK
Burma sapphires are among the rarest and most valuable types of sapphires, courtesy of their stunning royal blue color. This ring has a GIA certified 1.8...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Antique cluster Ring Diamonds solid 14K Gold Platinum Ø US7.75 /2gr
Located in SE
Cluster ring with top of crown in Platinum on solid 14K greenish Yellow Gold band with seven natural old European diamond cut Diamonds arranged in flower formation to imitate one 0.5...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Solar Ember - Fancy Color Diamond set with Rosecut Diamonds in Flower motiff 18K
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Solar Ember — A Ring Born From the Earth’s Rarest Fires Some rings glow. Solar Ember burns. At its heart lies a rare Fancy Deep Brownish Yellowish Orange Diamond (0.70 cts, GIA 7398...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
Antique Ring in 18K Yellow Gold, Amethyst and Diamonds. Artisanal
Located in Cattolica, IT
An antique ring, from the early 1900s, made of o 18 karat and silver. This design, as well as the combination of gold with burnished silver, are typical of Art Nouveau jewelry. The c...
Amethyst, Diamond, 18k Gold, Silver
1920s 14 Karat White Gold Blue Synthetic Spinel Ring, GIA Certification
Located in Wallkill, NY
Lovely Greenish Blue Synthetic Spinel 14K White Gold Ring. Stone is an Octagonal shape with Modified Brilliant Cut. The ring is a size 6 and can be made larger of smaller by us or yo...
Spinel, 14k Gold, White Gold
GIA Certified Fancy Intense Yellow 7 Carat Radiant Cut Diamond Ring in 18k Gold
By Gad & Co.
Located in Miami, FL
7 carat fancy intense yellow radiant cut diamond set with over 2 carats in white and yellow diamonds. The diamond accents are gracefully made in a curved floral motif design. The rin...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
1910 European Cut Diamond & Platinum Ring
By Non Branded
Located in Lexington, KY
This gorgeous ring comes from the early 1910s and was made with a super sparkly Old European cut diamond with a platinum setting. The center diamond is a bright 1.10 carat, VVS2 clar...
Diamond, Platinum
3.96 Ct Round Blue Sapphire with Sapphire Halo 18k Black Gold Eternity Pave Ring
By FERRUCCI
Located in New York, NY
1.16 carat center Round Blue Sapphire set in a Double Round Sapphire Halo and a triple pave' set Sapphire shank eternity style ring, with a total o...
Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold
Heavy Italian Antique 18K Yellow Gold Garnet Ring, 4.00cts.
Located in San Francisco, CA
What a gorgeous ring this Heavy Antique Garnet Ring is! I just LOVE it! Crafted in 18K Yellow Gold, the design features a beautiful flower of uniqu...
Garnet, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Toi et Moi 18K Ring with Old Brilliant-Cut Diamonds, 0.85 ct
Located in Chorzów, PL
"Toi et Moi" ring with 2 beautiful old brilliant cut diamonds with a total weight of approx. 0.85 ct, (H-I color, VS2-SI1 clarity). The ring is crafted from 18-karat yellow gold (0....
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
GIA Certified 2.01 Carat Ruby No Heat Scintillating Red Classical Solitaire Ring
Located in Hung Hom, HK
Experience timeless elegance with this GIA-certified 2.01-carat Mozambique ruby solitaire ring. This rare and radiant gemstone, celebrated for its natural beauty, captivates with its...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Antique 18K Toi et Moi ring, natural diamonds and ruby - you & I engagement ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
For sale is this Lovely two stone crossover ring. These rings are also known as 'Toi et Moi', which is French for 'you and me'. It is an incredibly romantic meaning of the joining of...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Nouveau Toi et Moi ring with pearl and diamonds, early 20th century
Located in Chorzów, PL
A charming vintage ring crafted from 14k white gold (0.585 fineness). The "Toi et Moi" (You and Me) ring is a style often used in engagement rings. The ring is decorated with an ol...
Diamond, Pearl, 14k Gold, White Gold
Elegant Cabochon Opal with Zircon Halo Ring Mothers Day Gift in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
Elegant Cabochon Opal with Zirconia Halo Ring in 925 Solid Sterling Silver. You shall need these statement ring to make a statement with your look. Each piece features dazzling cubic...
Opal, Zircon, Silver, Sterling Silver
Antique 14k Gold Banded Agate Ring Engagement Signet Box
Located in Berlin, DE
An antique 14K gold banded Agate ring circa 1930 size 6.5 US / 53 EU accompanied by a fitt V. Makhalova total weight - 2.19 grams stone measureme...
Agate, Chalcedony, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Art Nouveau 1930s Platinum Pearl Diamond Ring, Italy, Size 8.75
Located in Firenze, IT
Of bombé design, centred with a single pearl within a pierced surround of old and single-cut diamonds, ring size 8 3/4 Weight: 4.45gr.
Natural Pearl, Diamond, Platinum, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Art Nouveau Jadeite Jade Ruby 18 Karat Yellow Gold Dragon Antique Ring GIA
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Centering an oval jadeite jade cabochon measuring 13.0 x 15.0 mm - translucent medium green with light mottling Natural in color with no indications of dye or impregnation - Type A J...
Jade, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14 Karat Gold Ring Blue Seed Pearl Art Nouveau
Located in Wallkill, NY
Set in 14K White gold with yellow gold accents. Bezel Set stunning Synthetic Blue Sapphire with tiny seed pearls surrounding Floral motif on the shank. The Ring is a size 7-3/4 and c...
Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Natural 1.06Ct SI/H Diamond Set of 2 Engagement Rings 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Natural 1.06Ct SI/H Diamond Set of 2 Engagement Rings 18 Karat White Gold features two ring, one with marquise cut diamond solitaire with smaller diamond on side and the other band w...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
14k White Gold 0.96 Carat Marquise Blue Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
0.96 Carat Marquise Blue Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring in 14K Gold featuring natural blue sapphire of 0.96 carat and diamonds of 0.07 carats. The gorgeous handcrafted ring goe...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold