Graff Rings
One of the earliest ventures for British jeweler Sir Laurence Graff (b. 1938) was professional ring repair. Born in the East End of London, Graff undertook his first jeweler apprenticeship at age 15 in the city’s Hatton Garden jewelry district. Graff learned to repair rings and honed his now-renowned jewelry design skills at a workbench in his bedroom. He opened a 24-hour ring-repair service with a business partner and, in 1960, founded his eponymous house, which produces a range of rings, including cocktail rings, engagement rings and more as well as stand-alone jewels and watches — all entirely in-house.
Today, Sir Laurence Graff is one of the finest diamantaires in the world and was appointed an OBE in 2013 by Queen Elizabeth for his services to the jewelry industry.
Owing to its signature jewelry collections as well as its reputation for designing enduring engagement rings and wedding bands, Graff has long been a favorite of celebrities and royalty. The house’s devoted clientele has included the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and the Sultan of Brunei over the years, and Vogue magazine featured Graff as a designer of timeless celebrity engagement rings.
In fact, the luxury brand is a celebrity in its own right — Graff has been involved in all things diamonds — from mining to designing to manufacturing — and is a leader in the jewelry industry. Its focus on diamond rings, colored and otherwise, has yielded a wide array of offerings. Sir Graff’s devotion to the precious stone and his expertise in the field have led to him handling some of the most famous diamonds on the planet.
At Christie’s Hong Kong in 2009, a Graff ring set with a cushion-cut fancy vivid pink diamond of five carats, mounted in platinum and 18-karat rose gold, sold for the record USD equivalent of $2 million per carat. In 2013 and 2017, the 24.78-carat Graff Pink and 59.6-carat Pink Star caused a frenzy when they came up at auction, selling for $83 million and $71.2 million, respectively.
Browse a variety of legendary Graff engagement rings and other Graff rings on 1stDibs, including ruby flower motif rings composed of pavé-set round brilliant-cut diamonds, 18-karat yellow-gold diamond bands and more.
21st Century and Contemporary Graff Rings
21st Century and Contemporary Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
1980s Vintage Graff Rings
Diamond, Yellow Gold
20th Century Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
2010s British Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
2010s Graff Rings
Late 20th Century Graff Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary European Modern Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
2010s English Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Graff Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Modern Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
2010s American Graff Rings
White Diamond, Diamond, Platinum, White Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Late 20th Century British Artist Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
1980s American Vintage Graff Rings
Ruby, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Artist Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Graff Rings
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
2010s Graff Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Early 2000s Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Early 2000s Unknown Contemporary Graff Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 2000s Graff Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
2010s European Modern Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
1980s Vintage Graff Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Yellow Gold
Early 2000s Graff Rings
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
2010s Graff Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Graff Rings
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold, Platinum
Late 20th Century Graff Rings
Ruby, Platinum
Early 2000s Graff Rings
Yellow Diamond, Pearl, Platinum
2010s British Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Early 2000s Graff Rings
Diamond, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Graff Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Graff Rings
Diamond
2010s Graff Rings
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
2010s English Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
2010s Graff Rings
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
2010s English Graff Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Early 2000s Graff Rings
Diamond, White Gold
Early 2000s Graff Rings
Diamond, White Gold
20th Century Graff Rings
Diamond, Pink Diamond, 18k Gold
2010s Graff Rings
Diamond, White Gold
2010s Graff Rings
Diamond, White Gold
Early 2000s Graff Rings
Diamond, White Gold
Antique and Vintage Engagement Rings, Cocktail Rings and Other Rings for Sale on 1stDibs
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. The most collectible 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.
Creators Similar to Graff
- How luxurious is Graff?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertJune 6, 2024Graff is very luxurious. In fact, most experts refer to the brand as ultra-luxury due to the level of quality and the high price points associated with the British maker. Graff is known for handling some of the most famous diamonds in the world, including the Windsor Yellows, the Paragon, the Lesotho Promise and the Wittelsbach-Graff. While many jewels, such as the Graff Lesedi La Rona, remain in Graff's collection, the company does sell extremely high-quality stand-alone jewels. Gems in its showrooms can reportedly fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars on average. Additionally, the house works with more affordable, yet still exceptional, gems for its collections. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Graff jewelry.
- Is Graff worth it?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2024Yes, many jewelry lovers believe that Graff is worth it. Graff is known for handling some of the most famous diamonds in the world, including the Windsor Yellows, the Paragon, the Lesotho Promise and the Wittelsbach-Graff. Naturally, diamonds are featured prominently in Graff jewelry, which is known for being more avant-garde, although Graff creates classic pieces, too. The jeweler’s ready-to-wear collections integrate motifs like butterflies, bows and sunbursts, as well as striking silhouettes like the crisscrossed Kiss, the clustered Threads and the swirling Inspired by Twombly line, which pays homage to the work of American painter and sculptor Cy Twombly. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Graff jewelry is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Graff jewelry and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
- Is Graff high-end?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024Yes, Graff is high-end. Since its founding by Sir Laurence Graff, the British jewelry maker has become well known for carefully crafting jewelry using premium precious metals and gemstones. Graff is known for handling some of the most famous diamonds in the world, including the Windsor Yellows, the Paragon, the Lesotho Promise and the Wittelsbach-Graff. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Graff jewelry.
- Where are Graff watches made?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024Graff watches are made in Switzerland. The luxury maker has its atelier in Geneva, where its artisans assemble and finish all Graff watches. Most Graff movements come from other Swiss makers, including Vaucher, F.P. Journe and ETA. Explore a selection of Graff watches on 1stDibs.
- Are Graff watches good?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024Whether Graff watches are good is largely subjective. However, many watch lovers praise the quality of Graff watches. As a luxury watchmaker and a world-renowned jeweler, Graff is best known for its stunning diamond watches. The company has set records for the most expensive watches ever made with some of these diamond-studded timepieces, such as the Hallucination and the Fascination, which sold for $55 million and $40 million, respectively. Graff watches typically feature highly precise movements manufactured by legendary Swiss makers, such as Audemars Piguet and Jaeger-LeCoultre. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Graff watches and jewelry.
- Are Graff diamonds real?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024Yes, Graff diamonds are real. In fact, the British luxury jewelry maker is known for handling some of the most famous diamonds in the world, including the Windsor Yellows, the Paragon, the Lesotho Promise and the Wittelsbach-Graff. In addition to diamond jewelry, the maison also sells standalone diamonds. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of Graff diamond jewelry.
- Is Graff ultra high-end?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024Yes, Graff is ultra high-end. Experts reserve this term for brands that create pieces of unrivaled quality using only the finest available materials. Graff fits this definition by producing all of its jewelry in-house, adorning its pieces with high-quality gemstones in elegant settings that best display their natural beauty. The luxury jewelry maker is also known for handling some of the most famous diamonds in the world, including the Windsor Yellows, the Paragon, the Lesotho Promise and the Wittelsbach-Graff. Explore a variety of Graff jewelry on 1stDibs.
- Is Graff Diamonds a good brand?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024Yes, Graff Diamonds is a good brand. Simply referred to by the name Graff rather than Graff Diamonds International Ltd., the brand is widely celebrated for creating engagement rings, necklaces, rings, earrings, stand-alone jewels, watches and more, all entirely in-house. Graff is known for handling some of the most famous diamonds in the world, including the Windsor Yellows, the Paragon, the Lesotho Promise and the Wittelsbach-Graff. While diamonds are the main focus for Graff, the brand’s jewelry occasionally features other precious and semiprecious stones. Shop a variety of Graff jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024The cost of the most expensive Graff watch is likely to change over time as the luxury watchmaker unveils new timepieces. However, one of the priciest watches Graff has ever produced is the Hallucination, which carried a $55 million price tag when it debuted in 2014. This platinum bracelet watch features 110 carats of fancy diamonds in yellow, blue, pink and other colors. It took a team of 30 specialists four and a half years to handcraft the quartz watch. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Graff watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024Laurence Graff owns the Graff diamond watch. The luxury watchmaker has introduced two watches that the title "Graff diamond watch" refers to — the Hallucination and the Fascination. Both have estimated values above $40 million and remain in Graff's possession. On 1stDibs, you can shop a collection of Graff watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2024How much the Graff Pink is worth today is unknown. When it sold at auction in 2010, the gemstone fetched a selling price of $46 million. At the time, it was the most expensive diamond ever to be sold. Today, the gemstone is likely worth more. The 24.78-carat pink diamond gets its name from the buyer, Laurence Graff, a diamond dealer and the founder of the luxury jewelry brand. Its previous owner was another legendary jeweler, Harry Winston. Find a wide variety of diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024The Graff Diamonds Hallucination watch is so expensive for a few reasons. First, it features 110 fancy-colored diamonds and platinum metal, which are costly materials. Also, each diamond rests in a handcrafted setting and is hand-cut. As a result, the watch required thousands of hours of work to produce, leading to tremendous labor costs. Finally, Graff produced only one of the timepieces, and its rarity adds to its value. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Graff watches and jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024How much the Wittelsbach-Graff diamond is worth today is unknown. However, when jeweler Laurence Graff purchased it at an auction in 2008, he paid $24.3 million. At that time, the winning bid was the highest price ever paid for a diamond. After its discovery in the 17th century, the diamond became a gift to Philip IV of Spain's daughter. It was also owned by German royalty for a number of years. Graff is known for handling some of the most famous diamonds in the world, and the Wittelsbach-Graff diamond is just one of the many famous gemstones that Graff has added to his collection. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of Graff diamond jewelry.