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19th Century Diamond

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Antique Art Deco Platinum 3.20ctw Old Cut Marquise Diamond Open Work Bracelet
Located in Montclair, NJ
–Stone(s)– Natural Genuine Diamonds - 9 Old Marquise Cut & 56 Old European Cut - Bezel & Pave Set
Category

Antique 19th Century Art Deco Link Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Gold, White Gold, Platinum

Victorian Natural Pearl 1.90 Ct. Old Mine Diamond Ring
Located in Napoli, IT
A distinctive Victorian Diamond Natural pearl ring, 1890/1900 ca Hand crafted of solid 18 KT gold
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Natural Pearl, 18k Gold, Platinum

Wonderful French antique bar brooch - Victorian - rose cut diamonds sapphire
Located in Antwerp, BE
the 19th century in France and is therefor also called a Napoleon III jewel. This stunning floral
Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

Late Victorian Antique Diamond and Demantoid Garnet Frog Brooch/Pendant Ca.1890
Located in London, GB
A wonderful late Victorian demantoid and diamond frog brooch/ pendant, circa 1890, the frog formed
Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Garnet, 18k Gold, Silver

15.00 Ct Untreated Tourmaline 3.00 Ct Mine antique Diamond Ring
Located in Napoli, IT
quite a treasure to get hold of Border of 19 old mine cut Diamonds complement with glowing Diamond
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Silver

18ct Gold, Victorian Diamond Single Stone Band Ring, Hallmarked Birmingham 1879
Located in Brighton, GB
single natural oval-shaped diamond, adding a touch of sparkle and elegance to the piece. The diamond is
Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Band Rings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Victorian Old Mine Diamond Etruscan Revival Gold Bangle Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
THIS IS A STUNNING ANTIQUE VICTORIAN ETRUSCAN REVIVAL 14-18 KARAT GOLD AND OLD MINE CUT DIAMOND
Category

Antique 19th Century Unknown Victorian Bangles

Materials

Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold, 18k Gold

Antique 18ct Yellow Gold, Victorian 2.20 Carat Diamond Marquise / Navette Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Diamond Ring 18ct Gold Circa 1880 This exquisite Victorian marquise/navette-shaped ring
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique Carved Coral Gold Cameo with Pearl and Diamonds
Located in Chesterland, OH
is adorned with fine natural seed pearls and six sparkling round diamonds in a traditional old
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, 15k Gold

Victorian 1.63 Ct Old Mine Diamond Solitaire Stud Earrings Silver/Gold
Located in Napoli, IT
Exquisite pair of Victorian period Diamond studs earrings, 1890 ca. Hand crafted of solid 18 KT
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Silver

Art Deco Diamond Double Clip Brooch/Pendant in Platinum, 7.68 Carats
Located in Honolulu, HI
The 2 largest center diamonds are 1.20 carats, old European cut, G-I and SI1. There are 16 round
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Art Deco Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Antique Art Deco White Gold 0.65ct Diamond w/ Sapphire Engraved Wheat Work Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
-- Stone(s):-- (1) Natural Genuine Diamond - Old European Cut - Prong Set - I Color - VS2 Clarity
Category

Antique 19th Century Art Deco Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, White Gold

Victorian Diamond Silver Front Gold Backed Oval Brooch or Pendant
Located in Venice, CA
This Victorian-era brooch contains three Old Mine cut diamonds, surrounded by 24 smaller rose and
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Unknown Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Gold, Silver, 14k Gold

Victorian 18 Karat Gold Turquoise and Diamond Leaf Pendant
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
of old European cut diamonds, centrally set with beautiful turquoise and modelled in 18 karat yellow
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Unknown Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, 9k Gold

18ct Yellow Gold Victorian Ruby, Pearl Diamond Ring Hallmarked Birmingham 1877
Located in Brighton, GB
and inviting focal point. On either side, two sparkling natural diamonds enhance the ring's allure
Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique Art Deco Platinum Old European Diamond French Cut Sapphire Bracelet
Located in Great Neck, NY
Beautiful Antique Art Deco Platinum Old European Diamond French Cut Sapphire Bracelet. his gorgeous
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Unknown Art Deco Tennis Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum

Victorian 14 Karat Gold 0.35 Carat Diamond Blue Enamel Floral Motif Pendant
Located in Vilnius, Vilniaus apskr.
old cut diamonds (TW 0.35ct, RW-STW, SI-P2) and blue enamel (half gone due the age). Circa 1850
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Gold, Enamel, 14k Gold, Silver

Victorian .55 Ct Old Mine Cut Diamond Rare Solitaire Ring
Located in Napoli, IT
decorated with heavy 18 KT solid gold mount centrally set with an Old mine cut Diamond of .55 CT rated as G
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Etruscan Revival Solitaire Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

.48 Carat Rose Cut Light Brown Diamond Halo Gold Antique Engagement Ring
Located in Stamford, CT
1830’s antique light brown diamond ring. .48cts center rose cut diamond that is mounted in a 14k
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Brown Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold

Victorian Old Mine Cut Diamond Gold Locket Pendant Necklace Sun Motif
Located in New York, NY
INDULGE IN A GORGEOUS VICTORIAN - BELLE EPOQUE DIAMOND PICTURE LOCKET PENDANT IN WARM 10 - 14 KARAT
Category

Antique 19th Century Unknown Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 10k Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold

Antique Victorian Rose Gold 2.06ctw Old Mine Cut Diamond Daisy Ring
Located in Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
An antique diamond and rose gold ring, comprising seven old mine cut diamonds, set in 9 karat rose
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 9k Gold, Rose Gold

Victorian 18K Yellow Gold 5.0 Carat Diamond Turquoise Star of David Pendant
Located in New York, NY
-19th Century 5.0 carats Old Mine Cut Diamonds and Persian Turquoise Star of David Pendant. Between
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century European High Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Turquoise, Yellow Gold, Silver

Antique Victorian 18K Gold Silver 4.67ctw Old Cut Diamond Cluster Earrings
Located in Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
A pair of Victorian diamond, silver, and yellow gold earrings, each comprising nine large old cut
Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Silver

Victorian 1.25 Ct Old Mine Diamond Coiled Snake 14 KT Ring
Located in Napoli, IT
skin, Head has a large Diamond set in the centre Diamond is an oval cushion cut old Mine cut deep and
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Solitaire Rings

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold

Victorian Clover and Fleur-De-Lis Diamond Drop Earrings
Located in London, GB
This is an exquisite pair of Victorian diamond, ruby and sapphire drop earrings. One earring
Category

Antique 19th Century Victorian Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

Victorian Burma no heat ruby diamond 18k rose gold three stone ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
antique old mine cut diamonds in a romantic 18k rose gold setting. Center stone: Cabochon cut ruby
Category

Antique 19th Century Victorian Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Victorian 18 Karat and Platinum 6.0 Carats Old Mine Cut Diamond Large Horseshoe
Located in New York, NY
Late Victorian 6.0 Carat Diamond Horseshoe on a Victorian 15k Yellow Gold long chain c.1880s Old
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Chain Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum

Antique 18 Karat Yellow Gold Platinum Bar Pin with Ruby Diamond
Located in Vero Beach, FL
” wide. Pin has 8 (eight) Old Mine Cut Diamonds weighing approx. 0.16 carat total. 8 (eight) Square cut
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European High Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum

Faberge Antique Russian Tourmaline Enamel Diamond Gold Brooch
By Karl Fabergé
Located in Chicago, IL
inlaid with channels of rose cut diamonds. Diameter 26 mm (1 in.) The cushion cut tourmaline measures
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Russian Victorian Brooches

Materials

Tourmaline

Attractive Victorian Circa 1895 14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Ring
Located in Wheaton, IL
Attractive Victorian Circa 1895 14kt yellow gold and diamond ring set with one (1) Old European Cut
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique Victorian 15K Gold Silver 2.39ctw Diamond Crescent Brooch or Pendant
Located in Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
An antique diamond, silver, and rose gold pendant or brooch, comprising sixty old mine and rose cut
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, 15k Gold, Rose Gold, Silver

Belle Epoque Antique French Gold Diamond Pearl Pendant
Located in Chicago, IL
garlands, is embellished with half pearls and three old mine cut diamonds. Estimated total diamond weight
Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Belle Époque Drop Necklaces

Ladies Victorian Antique Sterling Silver Old Cuts Diamond Cross Pendant Necklace
Located in Houston, TX
single strand matinee diamond necklace. Clasp is 18K White Gold Engraved with "750". Pre-owned in
Category

Antique 19th Century Unknown Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Sterling Silver

Antique Victorian Rose cut diamond bangle, 18 karat gold, floral
Located in NEWARK, GB
If you are looking for a bangle that wows then this antique, Victorian era Rose cut diamond bangle
Category

Antique 19th Century British Victorian Bangles

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Sterling Silver

Antique Victorian 18K Yellow Gold Old Mine Cut Diamond Drop Earrings
Located in Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
A pair of Victorian diamond, and yellow gold earrings, each comprising one old mine cut diamond
Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique 14ct Gold, Early Victorian Enamel, Pearl, Diamond Venus Cupid Brooch
Located in Brighton, GB
decorated with diamonds and pearls, adding an extra touch of elegance and sophistication. This versatile
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century European Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Enamel

Rose Cut Diamond Platinum Crescent Moon Pendant Necklace French Belle Epoque
Located in New York, NY
This is a gorgeous and very rare antique French Belle Epoque Rose Cut Diamond Crescent Moon Pendant
Category

Antique 19th Century French Belle Époque Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum

Victorian Diamond Pearl Bird Leaf Pendant Necklace Green Gold Swallow Dove
Located in New York, NY
A stunning romantic Pendant in the form of a flying Bird carrying a Diamond and set with Seed Pearl
Category

Antique 19th Century Unknown Victorian Drop Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 10k Gold, Rose Gold

Antique 15ct Gold Victorian Amethyst Diamond Opal Ruby and Emerald Acrostic Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
relationship. The gemstones are set: Amethyst Diamond Opal Ruby Emerald The cabochon stones are mounted in
Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Fashion Rings

Materials

Amethyst, Diamond, Emerald, Opal, Ruby, Gold, 15k Gold

Antique Dutch Silver and Gold Rose Cut Diamond and Pearl Earrings
Located in Rotterdam, NL
blends the richness of two precious metals. Adorning its surface are intricate three rose-cut diamonds
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Dutch Artisan Chandelier Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 14k Gold, Gold, Silver

Antique Stick Pin Set with 0.12ct Round Diamond in 15ct/ 9ct White Gold
Located in London, GB
This elegant antique diamond 0.12ct stickpin in 15ct white gold setting & a 9ct gold pin is the
Category

Antique Early 19th Century British Brooches

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

Antique 18k Yellow Gold 0.35ctw Old European Diamond Hand Engraved Signet Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
-- Stone(s):-- (2) Natural Genuine Diamonds - Old European Cut - Pave Set - H/I Color - VS2/SI1
Category

Antique 19th Century Signet Rings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Victorian 14k Gold Gemstone Bangle Bracelet
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
19th Century MATERIALS: 14k Gold GEMSTONE: Diamond WEIGHT: 15 Grams MEASUREMENTS: Inner circumference
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Bangles

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold

Diamond Star Brooch Pendant Sterling Silver on Gold Estate Fine Jewelry
Located in Montreal, QC
Beautiful Antique Heirloom Diamond Star Brooch Pendant. Beautifully hand crafted in Silver on Gold
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Gold, Sterling Silver

Antique 18k Gold Silver Oval Sapphire w/ Rose Diamonds Long Open Scroll Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
Greenish Blue Color - 8.4x5.4mm (approx.) (8) Natural Genuine Diamonds - Rose Cut - Pave Set Material
Category

Antique 19th Century Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

Antique Art Deco 14k Gold Platinum Sapphire Diamond Floral Filigree Bracelet
Located in Montclair, NJ
–Stone(s)– (1) Natural Genuine Diamond - Old European Cut - Pave Set - H Color - VS2 Clarity
Category

Antique 19th Century Art Deco Link Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Platinum

Antique Diamond Chick bangle, Ruby, Pearl and White Enamel, 12k gold
Located in NEWARK, GB
Words simply cannot express how wonderful this piece is, an antique Diamond Chick bangle hailing
Category

Antique 19th Century British Victorian Bangles

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Ruby, Gold, Enamel

Antique Silver Gold GIA 1.18ct Old Mine Diamond Solitaire Floating Engraved Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
--Stone(s):-- (1) Natural Genuine Diamond - Old Mine Cut - Multi Prong Set- K Color - I1 Clarity
Category

Antique 19th Century Solitaire Rings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Silver

.25 Carat Diamond Yellow Gold Art Nouveau Engagement Ring
Located in Stamford, CT
Handmade original Art Nouveau .25 carat rose cut diamond in a pierced and carved 18k yellow gold
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique Art Deco 18k White Gold Diamond Emerald Filigree Open Work Ring
Located in Montclair, NJ
–Stone(s)– (1) Natural Genuine Diamond - Old European Cut - Prong Set - G Color - VS1 Clarity
Category

Antique 19th Century Art Deco Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Antique Victorian 18K Gold Silver 1ctw Diamond Ruby Kookaburra Bird Brooch
Located in Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
An antique, diamond, ruby, silver, and yellow gold brooch, comprising fifty round cut diamonds, and
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

Antique Butterfly Rose Cut Diamond Ruby Pearl Pendant Brooch Necklace Victorian
Located in New York, NY
with Rose Cut Diamonds, Pearls and Rubies in a gorgeous open work design in Silver atop 14 Karat Yellow
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Unknown Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

15ct Yellow Gold French Victorian Emerald, Diamond Seed Pearl Pendent Necklace
Located in Brighton, GB
sparkling natural diamonds set in silver, providing a striking contrast to the warm tones of the gold
Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Pearl, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold

Tsavorite Diamond Cocktail Ring 10kt Yellow Gold Natural Gemstones Ring
Located in Jupiter, FL
Tsavorite gemstones and diamonds in 10KT yellow gold. GRAM WEIGHT: 3.49gr METAL: 10KT yellow gold
Category

Antique Early 19th Century North American Modern Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Tsavorite, 10k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique 9ct Gold Silver, Victorian Sapphire Diamond Crescent Moon Pendant
Located in Brighton, GB
is set with alternating natural sapphires and diamonds, creating a beautiful contrast between the
Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 9k Gold, Silver

Antique 18ct Gold, Victorian Demantoid Garnet, Emerald, Diamond Pearl Ring
Located in Brighton, GB
diamonds, adding an extra layer of brilliance and sophistication. With its intricate design and Victorian
Category

Antique Late 19th Century European Victorian Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Garnet, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Sapphire and OEC Diamond Gold Moi et Toi Victorian Bypass Ring
Located in Montreal, QC
Simply Beautiful! Vintage Blue Sapphire and Old European Cut Diamond Gold Moi et Toi Victorian
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

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19th Century Diamond For Sale on 1stDibs

Find the exact 19th century diamond you’re shopping for in the variety available on 1stDibs. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using Gold, 18k Gold and Yellow Gold. Our collection of these items for sale includes 6824 vintage editions and 8 modern creations to choose from as well. If you’re looking for a 19th century diamond from a specific time period, our collection is diverse and broad-ranging, and you’ll find at least one that dates back to the 18th Century while another version may have been produced as recently as the 21st Century. For this particular piece, .5 Carat and 1 Carat are consistently popular carat weights. There have been many well-made iterations of the classic 19th century diamond over the years, but those made by Tiffany Co., Fabergé and Cartier are often thought to be among the most beautiful. Today, if you’re looking for a rose cut version of this piece and are unable to find the perfect match, our selection also includes round cut and old mine cut alternatives. If you’re browsing our inventory for a 19th century diamond, you’ll find that many are available today for women, but there are still pieces to choose from for unisex and men.

How Much is a 19th Century Diamond?

On average, a 19th century diamond at 1stDibs sells for $4,188, while they’re typically $100 on the low end and $685,000 for the highest priced versions of this item.

Why Gold Shines in Jewelry Craftsmanship

Gold is the feel-good metal, the serotonin of jewelry. Wear vintage and antique gold necklaces, watches, gold bracelets or gold rings and you feel happy, you feel dressed, you feel, well, yourself. 

Gold, especially yellow gold, with its rich patina and ancient pedigree going back thousands of years, is the steady standby, the well-mannered metal of choice. Any discussion of this lustrous metal comes down to a basic truth: Gold is elementary, my dear. Gold jewelry that couples the mystique of the metal with superb design and craftsmanship achieves the status of an enduring classic. Many luxury houses have given us some of our most treasured and lasting examples of gold jewelry over the years.

Since its founding, in 1837, Tiffany Co. has built its reputation on its company jewelry as well as its coterie of boutique designers, which has included Jean Schlumberger, Donald Claflin, Angela Cummings and Elsa Peretti. There are numerous gold Tiffany classics worth citing. Some are accented with gemstones, but all stand out for their design and the workmanship displayed.

For the woman who prefers a minimalist look, the Tiffany Co. twist bangle (thin, slightly ovoid) is stylishly simple. For Cummings devotees, signature pieces feature hard stone inlay, such as her pairs of gold ear clips inlaid with black jade (a play on the classic Chanel black and tan), or bangles whose design recalls ocean waves, with undulating lines of lapis lazuli and mother-of-pearl. And just about any design by the great Jean Schlumberger is by definition a classic.

Even had he eschewed stones and diamonds, Southern-born David Webb would be hailed for the vast arsenal of heavy gold jewelry he designed. Gold, usually hammered or textured in some manner, defines great David Webb jewelry. The self-taught jeweler made very au courant pieces while drawing inspiration from ancient and out-of-the-way sources — East meets West in the commanding gold necklaces made by Webb in the early 1970s. The same could be said for his endlessly varied gold cuffs.

In Europe, many houses have given us gold jewelry that sets the highest standard for excellence, pieces that were highly sought after when they were made and continue to be so. 

Numerous designs from Cartier are homages to gold. There are the classic Trinity rings, necklaces and bracelets — trifectas of yellow, white and rose gold. As a testament to the power of love, consider the endurance of the Cartier Love bracelet.

Aldo Cipullo, Cartier’s top in-house designer from the late 1960s into the early ’70s, made history in 1969 with the Love bracelet. Cipullo frequently said that the Love bracelet was born of a sleepless night contemplating a love affair gone wrong and his realization that “the only remnants he possessed of the romance were memories.” He distilled the urge to keep a loved one close into a slim 18-karat gold bangle. 

BVLGARI and its coin jewelry, gemme nummarie, hit the jackpot when the line launched in the 1960s. The line has been perennially popular. BVLGARI coin jewelry features ancient Greek and Roman coins embedded in striking gold mounts, usually hung on thick link necklaces of varying lengths. In the 1970s, BVLGARI introduced the Tubogas line, most often made in yellow gold. The Tubogas watches are classics, and then there is the Serpenti, the house's outstanding snake-themed watches and bracelets.

A collection called Monete that incorporated the gold coins is one of several iconic BVLGARI lines that debuted in the 1970s and ’80s, catering to a new generation of empowered women. Just as designers like Halston and Yves Saint Laurent were popularizing fuss-free ready-to-wear fashion for women on the go, BVLGARI offered jewels to be lived in

Since Van Cleef Arpels opened its Place Vendôme doors in 1906, collection after collection of jewelry classics have enchanted the public. As predominantly expressed in a honeycomb of gold, there is the Ludo watch and accessories, circa the 1920s, and the golden Zip necklace, 1951, whose ingenious transformation of the traditional zipper was originally proposed by the Duchess of Windsor. Van Cleef's Alhambra, with its Moroccan motif, was introduced in 1968 and from the start its popularity pivoted on royalty and celebrity status. It remains one of VCA’s most popular and collected styles.

Mention must be made of Buccellati, whose name is synonymous with gold so finely spun that it suggests tapestry. The house’s many gold bracelets, typically embellished with a few or many diamonds, signified taste and distinction and are always in favor on the secondary market. Other important mid-20th-century houses known for their gold-themed jewelry include Hermès and Ilias Lalaounis.

Find a stunning collection of vintage and antique gold jewelry on 1stDibs.

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 ringsvintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings

Shop antique and vintage diamond rings, diamond necklaces and other extraordinary diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.  

Questions About 19th Century Diamond
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    British artist John Singer Sargent was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century. Other notable portraitists from the period include James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Eugène Delacroix, Théodore Géricault, Gustave Courbet, Édouard Manet, Mary Cassat, Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of portrait paintings.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The French painters of the 19th century worked in two styles. Neoclassicism dominated the first half of the century, and Impressionism was the most common style during the second half. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of French paintings.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Yes, there were cannons in the 16th century. The history of the weapon dates back to 12th-century China. Historical records suggest that the first cannons appeared in Europe during the Islamic wars in Iberia in the 13th century. Find a range of antique cannons on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, the history of glass-making goes back much further than the 1600s. It’s believed that they were making glass in different parts of the world at least 3,600 years ago, maybe even longer. During the late Bronze Age in Egypt and in Western Asia, glassmarking advanced significantly and was manipulated extensively to produce vessels, jewelry, and works of art. Shop a range of antique and vintage glass on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    What painting is the most important of the 20th century is largely a matter of personal opinion. Some notable works produced during the period include Paul Cézanne's Mont Sainte-Victoire, Pablo Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, Henri Matisse's The Dance and Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist. Shop a large selection of 20th-century paintings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A variety of furniture was used during the 16th century. Items commonly found in homes include high-backed armchairs, chests, stools, benches and cupboards. Most European artisans active during the time period produced pieces out of oak wood. Find a large collection of antique furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    What 17th-century furniture is called varies. The general term for all furniture produced 100 years ago, including 17th-century pieces, is antique furniture. You may also choose to be more specific and describe a piece by its style. Theatrical and lavish, the Baroque style was prevalent across Europe from the 17th to the mid-18th century and spread around the world through colonialism, including in Asia, Africa and the Americas. Baroque furniture was extravagant in all aspects, from shape to materials. 17th-century pieces from England often feature characteristics of the William and Mary style, such as crisp lines, maple and walnut veneers, inlaid bands and C-scroll ornaments. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of antique furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, wedding rings have a long history, stretching back to ancient Egypt. The first diamond engagement ring was created in 1477 by Archduke Maximillian of Austria. Browse a wide array of vintage and contemporary wedding rings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    In the 18th century, art changed in style from Baroque to Rococo and Neoclassicism. Art became more ornamented and idealized during the Rococo period and then shifted toward a style that emulated the artwork of ancient Greece and Rome near the end of the century. You’ll find a variety of fine art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
    To identify 18th-century furniture, you can research your piece in the context of the prevailing styles of the period or consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. To identify your item on your own, look over it for maker's marks, such as carvings, stamps, brands and labels. Researching the marking can help you determine the maker of your piece, and from there, you can search further to learn more about your particular item. Without a maker's mark, the best approach is to consider the characteristics of the dominant furniture styles during the 18th century. In England, these included William and Mary, Queen Anne, Georgian, Chippendale, Hepplewhite and Sheraton. Some French furniture styles of the 1700s include Louis XV, Louis XVI and Régence. Find a diverse assortment of 18th-century furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Sir Isaac Newton invented the reflector telescope in the 17th century. He created it as a replacement for the refracting telescope, which tended to have poor optics. Find a collection of antique and vintage telescopes on 1stDibs from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    One way to check if your brass candlesticks are from the 18th century is to look for the two seams running lengthwise on either side. This is from when the candlestick was molded in two halves and then soldered together. You’ll find a variety of candlesticks of all shapes and sizes from some of the top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    17th-century Dutch portraiture has many similarities to other Baroque paintings, including rich colors, dark shadows and intense lighting. Many famous Dutch Baroque works lean toward realism. In Dutch portraiture, props and detailed backgrounds are uncommon. You'll find a collection of Dutch Baroque paintings from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 10, 2025
    The individuals considered the Big Three of 18th-century cartoons are William Hogarth, James Gillray and George Cruikshank. Although the 18th century saw a widespread increase in illustrations in newspapers, these three illustrators were particularly well-known for their work. Hogarth's work was extremely diverse, ranging from serious, realistic paintings and portraits to satirical and moralistic illustrations filled with symbolism. A British caricaturist, Gillray is remembered today for his artworks representing political and social satires, like his political cartoons against George III of England. Despite being a prolific caricaturist, Cruikshank is now most famous for illustrating the works of Charles Dickens. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of illustrations.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    At the end of the 17th century, Europe went into a frenzy over porcelain. Asian porcelain was highly sought after, and spurred the foundation of the Meissen factory in France, where hard porcelain went on to be made. You’ll find a large collection of porcelain pieces from many of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.