Heirloom Diamond Ring
Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary German Contemporary More Rings
Beryl, Diamond, 18k Gold, 22k Gold, Platinum
Early 20th Century European Art Deco Signet Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Art Deco Wedding Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Fashion Rings
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sterling Silver
Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Engagement Rings
Emerald, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Engagement Rings
Diamond, Morganite, Rose Gold
20th Century Fashion Rings
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sterling Silver
21st Century and Contemporary German Contemporary More Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, 22k Gold
20th Century Fashion Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Sterling Silver
2010s American Modern Three-Stone Rings
Emerald, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Art Deco Fashion Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Retro Cocktail Rings
White Diamond, Gold, White Gold
Early 20th Century Edwardian Engagement Rings
White Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Art Deco Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Australian Contemporary Engagement Rings
Yellow Diamond, White Diamond, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Early 20th Century Edwardian Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Band Rings
Ruby, Multi-gemstone, White Diamond, Diamond, Rose Gold, 14k Gold
Vintage 1930s Art Deco Engagement Rings
Diamond, Palladium
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Art Deco Engagement Rings
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Art Deco Engagement Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Vintage 1920s Art Deco Solitaire Rings
White Diamond, Platinum
Early 20th Century Art Deco Solitaire Rings
White Diamond, Platinum
Early 20th Century Art Deco Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
20th Century Unknown Contemporary Cluster Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Australian Contemporary Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Hong Kong Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Ruby, Diamond, Yellow Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Australian Contemporary Engagement Rings
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Early 20th Century Unknown Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
2010s Hong Kong Modern Cocktail Rings
Ruby, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Contemporary Band Rings
Sapphire, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
2010s North American Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
2010s American Modern Three-Stone Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Edwardian Engagement Rings
Aquamarine, Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Art Deco Cluster Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
2010s Israeli Loose Gemstones
Diamond
2010s British Contemporary Cluster Rings
White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
2010s American Contemporary Band Rings
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s American Contemporary Band Rings
Diamond, Tourmaline, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Contemporary Fashion Rings
White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Vintage 1960s Unknown Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Gold
Vintage 1980s Band Rings
Diamond, White Gold
2010s Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Tsavorite, Garnet, Diamond, Aquamarine, Rose Gold, 18k Gold
Antique Early 1900s Unknown Edwardian Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold
Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Engagement Rings
Diamond, 14k Gold, Silver
Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Solitaire Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Early 20th Century European Art Deco Signet Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Signet Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Vintage 1980s Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Antique Late 19th Century French Victorian Signet Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
White Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Cocktail Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Early 2000s Unknown Modern Dome Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold
Vintage 1950s Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Vintage 1940s French Retro Cocktail Rings
Amethyst, Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
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Heirloom Diamond Ring For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Heirloom Diamond Ring?
The Legacy of Diamond in Jewelry Design
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.
Finding the Right Rings for You
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.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023Yes, a wedding ring can be a diamond ring. In fact, you're free to wear any type of ring that appeals to you as a wedding ring. You could opt to wear a solitaire diamond ring to symbolize your wedding vows or a band ring that features multiple diamonds, such as an eternity band that shows diamonds all the way around its surface. Find a large selection of diamond wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- What is a diamond eternity ring?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A diamond eternity ring is a ring that features multiple diamonds, adorned in an endless circular design. This ring normally features a band set with a continuous circle of diamond stones in a manner that can be very glamorous. Diamond eternity rings are available in a variety of styles including Contemporary, Victorian, Retro, Art Deco, Modern, Edwardian, Empire, Renaissance, and Artisan. Find a collection of antique and vintage diamond eternity rings on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The symbolism of a diamond ring is largely a matter of personal opinion. Because diamonds are the most commonly used stones in engagement rings, many people associate them with commitment, undying love and marriage. The diamond is also the gemstone for April. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of diamond gemstone rings.
- What is a floating diamond ring?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021A floating diamond ring is a ring where the center diamond appears to be floating free of the setting or band. Typically, the bands in a floating diamond ring divert away from the stone.
- Do eternity rings have diamonds?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Some eternity or infinity rings feature diamonds, while some feature other gemstones. An eternity ring is a continuous band that is set with a string of gemstones centered in the band. It’s meant to symbolize never-ending love and is often given as a gift on an anniversary. Many people like to have their infinity ring adorned with diamonds, other people simply prefer a different gemstone. Shop a collection of eternity rings from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024No, an engagement ring doesn't have to have a diamond in it. There really are no rules when it comes to engagement jewelry, so any ring that appeals to you can signify your intention to marry someone. Alternatives to diamond rings include simple band rings formed of precious metals and gemstone rings featuring rubies, emeralds, sapphires and other stones. Explore a diverse assortment of engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024No, an engagement ring does not have to be a diamond. Although diamonds are popular, rings featuring other gemstones like sapphires, rubies and emeralds can serve as engagement rings, and it's even possible to choose a ring made entirely out of precious metals with no gemstone accents of any kind. There really are no rules when it comes to engagement rings, so feel free to select any ring that appeals to you. Find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022On a diamond ring, the head is the portion of the jewelry that holds the gemstone in place. You may also see it referred to as the prongs, setting or crown. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of diamond gemstone rings.
- What is a diamond bypass ring?1 Answer
Roman Malakov DiamondsMarch 22, 2021a diamond bypass ring is a fashionable and unique ring that consists of a single metal band that "twists" and do not connect to each other. If it is an engagement ring, this gap between the two ends of the bands holds the diamond. - 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022An illusion diamond ring is a type of diamond setting that enhances the appearance, namely the perceived size, of the diamond. One of the strategies used to create illusion diamonds is to surround the diamond with another precious metal, making it look bigger. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of expertly-vetted illusion diamond rings from some of the world’s top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023Yes, you can wear a diamond ring as a wedding ring if you wish. Your wedding jewelry should reflect your taste and style, so you're free to choose any type of ring you desire. One option is to wear a diamond solitaire as a wedding ring. An eternity wedding band dotted with diamonds is a popular alternative. Many brides opt for two identical eternity bands, wearing one on either side of the engagement ring as guard rings. Shop a wide range of diamond wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- Can guys wear diamond rings?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Diamond rings are more popular among women than men, but that doesn't mean men can't wear them. Plenty of men wear bands with diamond accents.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023Yes, engagement rings can be without diamonds. Many people prefer engagement rings that feature other types of gemstones. Alternatives to diamonds include sapphires, emeralds, rubies, moonstones, citrines, amethysts and topazes. Truly, any type of ring that appeals to you can serve as your engagement ring. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of engagement rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023What it's called when a ring has diamonds on the band depends on the design of the piece. Rings that have diamonds set into grooves that run along them are channel-set rings, while ones that feature small diamonds placed side by side are pavé bands. A band that has a single line of diamonds that travels all the way around is an eternity ring or band. Explore a wide range of diamond rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021In the United States, diamond rings are certified by an official gemological laboratory known as the Gemological Institute of America. A certified diamond ring means that the diamond has undergone a quality analysis by experts at an institution such as the GIA and these experts have issued a lab report that is indicative of the grading process.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023There is no single most elegant cut of a diamond for a ring. Each cut has its own characteristics that can exude elegance, so you're free to choose the cut that appeals most to you. If you want your ring to sparkle, consider brilliant cuts like the round, princess, marquise, oval and pear. To put the spotlight on color and clarity, opt for stepped cuts like the emerald, Carr� and Asscher. Explore a wide range of diamond rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A single diamond ring is usually known as a solitaire. A solitaire diamond ring, which doesn’t feature any gemstones other than the diamond, has a minimalist yet ravishing appearance. Shop a unique range of vintage solitaire rings from top brands on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023There is no single best diamond cut for a ring. Any type of cut can be visually appealing, so which one you choose is a matter of personal preference. Round-cut rings are popular choices because they showcase the sparkle of diamonds and have a timeless shape. Other cuts that maximize sparkle include the princess, oval, pear and marquise cuts. Some things to look out for when shopping for gemstones are extinctions, which are dark spots on the stone, and windows, which are see-through areas created during the cutting process. These spots reduce the brilliance of a gemstone. Find a large selection of diamond rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023What three diamonds on a ring mean is a matter of personal interpretation. Some people believe that three diamonds symbolize the Holy Trinity in Christianity. To others, triple stones may represent time (past, present and future) or a deep romantic bond (friendship, love and loyalty/fidelity). Find a large selection of diamond rings from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What black diamond rings symbolize is largely a matter of personal interpretation. Charisma, power, passion and self-assuredness are some of the characteristics commonly associated with black diamond jewelry. Shop a range of diamond gemstone rings from top sellers around the world on 1stDibs.
Read More
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Our Guide to Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco Engagement Rings
Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.
Talking Diamonds with the Jeweler Behind J. Lo’s Engagement Ring
Alon Ruschin, of Vivid Diamonds & Jewelry, channels his passion for gems into helping clients find just the right ring.