Herkimer Diamond Ring
2010s Fashion Rings
Diamond, Sterling Silver
2010s Fashion Rings
Diamond, Brass
Recent Sales
2010s Indian Cluster Rings
Crystal, Gold, 18k Gold
2010s American Contemporary Cocktail Rings
White Diamond, Quartz, 18k Gold
2010s German Artisan Fashion Rings
Crystal, Diamond, Quartz, Rock Crystal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Fashion Rings
Vintage 1910s American Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Quartz, White Diamond, Platinum
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 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, 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 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, 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.
- 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 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023What three diamonds mean on a wedding ring is largely a matter of personal interpretation. However, many people associate the stones with a couple’s past, present and future. To others, the trio of stones may symbolize the Holy Trinity. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of diamond wedding rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023Yes, some men's wedding rings have diamonds. Men are free to wear any type of ring as a wedding ring, and you'll find many options with one or more diamonds set into their bands. Wedding rings for men may also feature colored gemstones, like sapphires or rubies, in addition to or in place of diamonds, or they may be formed entirely out of metal. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of men's wedding rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021A brilliant-cut diamond ring is cut in such a way that it has numerous facets. Due to its facets, it reflects the maximum light. Shop for antique and vintage brilliant-cut diamond jewelry today on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022An Asscher cut diamond ring is one that has a central stone with a square shape and a stepped cut. Its high crown and deep pavilion give the diamond a brilliant sparkling appearance. Shop a variety of Asscher cut diamond gemstone rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021A good size for a diamond ring would depend on the wearer's finger size. Keep in mind that the smaller the finger, the larger the diamond will appear. For instance, on a size 4 finger, a 1.5-carat diamond solitaire looks significantly bigger than on a size 8. When it comes to diamonds, size is important, but it isn't everything. Instead of relying solely on a diamond's size (or, more precisely, its carat weight), it's best to look for a diamond with the ideal combination of cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. You can find a variety of antique and designer diamond rings on 1stDibs.
- What is a rose cut diamond ring?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021Rose-cut diamonds are uncommon in modern jewelry and are often associated with antique styles like Victorian or Georgian. The rose cut is circular like its namesake flower, with a flat top and a domed crown with either 12 or 24 facets. This cut dates back to the 16th century. Find a collection of antique and vintage rose-cut diamond rings on 1stDibs today.
- Roman Malakov DiamondsMarch 22, 2021It can. If the diamonds are inexpensive. This is because it is not advisable to set real diamonds in a 925 ring (sterling silver ring). Silver is a very soft metal. Diamonds could easily fall out of the ring even with very few wear-and-tear.
- Roman Malakov DiamondsMarch 24, 2021There are a few diamond cuts that can be considered square diamond rings. Here is a list: 1. Emerald cut 2. Asscher cut 3. Princess cut 4. Radiant.cut 5. Cushion cut
- What is a two tone diamond ring?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A two-tone ring is a ring constituted of two different metals. The most common combinations are gold and platinum. However, a two-tone ring can feature any combination of yellow, rose, or white gold. Shop a range of antique and vintage two-tone diamond rings on 1stDibs.
Read More
Our Guide to Engagement Ring Settings – And How to Choose One
There are many ways to showcase a diamond, from traditional prongs to a smooth, streamlined bezel. Here’s everything you need to consider.
Nothing Says Summer Heat Like This Ruby-Red Cartier Stunner
The vintage bombé ring is bursting with color and timeless style.
Zircon Rings: Our Guide to a Uniquely Colorful Natural Gemstone
Zircon is a magnificent and underrated natural gemstone that has been worn and adored for centuries.
[Survey] Two-Thirds of Jewelry Gift Recipients Don’t Want to Be Surprised
Givers of fine gems enjoy surprise more than receivers, and women more than men. Find out what else our survey of 3,000 Americans revealed.
Colorful Gemstones Are a Brilliant Choice for Engagement Rings
If diamonds don’t seem right, what about a magnificent sapphire, ruby or emerald?
Our Guide to Fancy-Colored Diamond Engagement Rings
Accounting for just 1 percent of all diamonds, these marvels of nature are exceedingly rare and gorgeously complex.
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.