Vintage Alexandrite Jewelry
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Engagement Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Engagement Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Engagement Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Victorian Engagement Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Engagement Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
Vintage 1960s Solitaire Rings
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Engagement Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Art Deco Drop Earrings
Alexandrite, Diamond
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary American Art Deco Three-Stone Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Dangle Earrings
Alexandrite, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Victorian Cocktail Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
Late 20th Century Fashion Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Unknown Modern Drop Earrings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 1950s North American Art Deco Engagement Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Platinum
20th Century Bangles
Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Three-Stone Rings
Alexandrite, Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
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Vintage Alexandrite Jewelry For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Vintage Alexandrite Jewelry?
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 1, 2023Jewelry that is 20 to 80 years old is considered vintage. Pieces that are 100 years old or older are antiques. Vintage jewelry includes rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, brooches and even hair accessories like combs. Shop a range of vintage jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024To identify vintage jewelry, look for a maker's hallmark. You'll usually find it on a necklace, pin or earring clasp; the back of a pendant or earring or the inside of a bracelet or ring. Try snapping a photo of the hallmark and doing a reverse image search to quickly determine who produced it. If that doesn't work, you can look up the hallmark using trusted online reference resources or have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer assist you. Shop a large collection of vintage jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023To tell if jewelry is vintage, first look for hallmarks that may indicate the maker. Then, consult trusted online resources to research the markings and find out when the jewelry house produced pieces that are similar to yours. Anything made at least 20 to 80 years ago is vintage. Because there are many contemporary pieces inspired by vintage designs, you may want to consider taking your jewelry to a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer who can inspect and date it. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of vintage jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023Yes, some vintage jewelry has markings. Makers may have stamped pieces with hallmarks to represent the types of metals used in them and/or to signify that they came from certain brands. However, not all vintage jewelry is marked. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of vintage jewelry from some of the world's top dealers.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024To tell quality vintage jewelry, examine its details carefully. Ensure that any clasps or fasteners operate smoothly and stay securely fastened. Quality vintage jewelry will also feature sturdy hardware, such as the posts on a pair of earrings, the prongs securing a gemstone in a ring or the o-rings connecting a pendant to a chain. You can also research the maker to learn about the manufacturer's reputation when evaluating vintage jewelry. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of vintage jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 12, 2023To tell if jewelry is vintage or antique, first look for any hallmarks that signify its maker. You can use trusted online resources to research when the maker was active and producing pieces similar to yours to roughly estimate its age. Jewelry is vintage if it's between 20 and 99 years old, and antique if it is 100 years old or more. If you're unable to locate a maker's hallmark, becoming familiar with the materials and other characteristics used during different eras of jewelry can help you date your piece. When in doubt, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of vintage and antique jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024Yes, nearly all vintage Tiffany jewelry is stamped. However, the stamp on older pieces may not include the maker's name. You should still find a hallmark that represents the metal’s purity. Examples include 925, AG925 or STER for sterling silver. Find a variety of Tiffany & Co. jewelry from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024It's not possible to say for sure which vintage jewelry is worth the most money. Trends in collecting vary over time, and because the term vintage refers to pieces that are between 20 and 99 years old, what's considered vintage changes each year as well. However, collectors are often on the hunt for vintage jewelry produced by notable makers, such as Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston, Chanel, Miriam Haskell, David Webb and Georg Jensen. Vintage jewelry may also have value due to its materials, such as gold, platinum and diamonds. To find out how much your vintage pieces may be worth, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of vintage jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024To identify vintage Tiffany jewelry, see if you can find either a “Tiffany & Co.” or “T&Co.” stamp, as nearly all pieces produced by the luxury jewelry maker will display one or the other. Engagement rings made during the late 1960s and beyond will also usually have a serial number, which you can research. However, it is usually inscribed onto the gemstone's girdle in characters too small to be read with the naked eye. If your piece is a diamond ring, you can take it to an authorized Tiffany & Co. repair center to have the serial number read and researched to learn more about it. For all other types of jewelry, you can either conduct online research to determine if it is between 20 and 99 years old, making it vintage, or you can have a certified appraiser or experienced dealer help you with the identification process. On 1stDibs, explore a wide variety of vintage Tiffany & Co. jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024To identify vintage rhinestone jewelry, look at the back, clasp and other inconspicuous areas in search of a maker's mark. By definition, vintage jewelry is between 20 and 99 years old, so you'll need a rough idea of when the maker produced your item to determine if it is vintage. You can begin the dating process by researching the maker using trusted online resources and looking at images of its pieces from over the years. Alternatively, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer can help you with the process. Shop a large collection of vintage costume jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024To identify vintage costume jewelry, you'll need to determine if your piece is between 20 and 99 years old. To do so, see if you can locate a maker's mark. You're most likely to find it in an inconspicuous area, such as an inner edge or a clasp. Using trusted online resources, search for the mark to learn who the maker is, then read more about it to get an idea of when it produced items similar to yours. Alternatively, you can consider having a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer help identify your costume jewelry. On 1stDibs, find a selection of vintage costume jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023Vintage costume jewelry refers to costume jewelry that is 20 to 80 years old. Jewelry, costume or otherwise, that is 100 years old is referred to as antique. The big design fair in Paris in 1900 inspired jewelers to work with inexpensive materials, and Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel and others helped popularize costume jewelry during the 1920s. The roots of costume jewelry, however, took shape at least as far back as the 18th century, when paste jewelry that featured hand-cut glass instead of gemstones first emerged. Shop a variety of vintage costume jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023The way to tell if vintage jewelry is real depends first on determining what you mean by "real." If you want to know if a piece is actually made by a particular brand or is a reproduction, you can consult trusted online resources to see what hallmarks and other details are present on genuine pieces. Then, you can examine your jewelry using these criteria. You can also find tests to determine whether precious metals and gemstones are real or not. However, use caution, as some tests can damage jewelry. A simple way to tell if vintage jewelry is an authentic example of a particular maker's work or made of real materials is to take the piece to an experienced appraiser or dealer. Find a large selection of vintage jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024To tell if vintage jewelry is valuable, consider its maker, age, materials, style, type and condition. Using these criteria, you can identify similar pieces previously sold on trusted online platforms and get a rough idea of your jewelry's value. However, the best way to find out how much vintage jewelry is worth is to seek an expert's opinion, such as a certified appraiser, experienced jeweler or knowledgeable antiques dealer. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of vintage jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 12, 2023Many people would argue that vintage jewelry isn't making a comeback because it has never faded in popularity. Although what's considered vintage changes from decade to decade, the demand for jewelry that is between 20 and 99 years old generally remains high. There are collectors who look for pieces featuring specific materials or that were made by certain brands, and many men and women find vintage jewelry appealing because it is unique and has history. Shop a variety of vintage jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023To find out how much your vintage jewelry is worth, you can conduct online research using trusted sources. By seeing what similar pieces have sold for in the past, you can estimate the value of your jewelry. For a more precise valuation, enlist the services of an appraiser or knowledgeable vintage jewelry specialist. Find a wide range of vintage jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024Yes, vintage Tiffany jewelry may be worth something. Due to the popularity of the American jewelry maker and the quality of the pieces that Tiffany & Co. produces, accessories often hold or appreciate in value over the years. The house is celebrated for its range of partnerships with the likes of Elsa Peretti, Jean Schlumberger and others, which can also contribute to how collectible a given bracelet or necklace might be. However, the style, type and condition of the jewelry will impact how valuable it is. A certified appraiser or experienced dealer can let you know how much a specific piece is worth. Find a diverse assortment of vintage Tiffany & Co. jewelry on 1stDibs.
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