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Black Tahitian Pearl Ring in 18k White Gold
Located in Surfside, FL
ESTIMATED RETAIL: $5,760 YOUR PRICE: $2,880 - Lustrous black Tahitian pearl ring in 18k white gold
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold

Vintage 18 karat White Gold and Pave Diamond Ring
Located in Jerusalem, IL
white gold and is set with approximately 120 1 point diamonds on the front and on the side of the
Category

Vintage 1980s Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Blue Sapphire Ring, Unheated Blue Sapphire 18k White Gold Diamonds Ring
Located in Bangkok, TH
• 18k white gold Unheated blue sapphire in cushion cut total carat weight 5.15 surrounded by fancy
Category

2010s Thai Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Spinel, 18k Gold, White Gold

Modernist Rhodonite and Blue Chalcedony 14 Karat Bicolor Gold Ring
Located in Lombard, IL
This large and exciting modernist rhodonite & blue chalcedony 14 karat bicolor gold ring is one of
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Cocktail Rings

Materials

Chalcedony, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

0.51 Carat Round Brilliant Cut White Diamonds Pave 18K White Gold Halo Ring
By EDXÚ
Located in London, GB
item handcrafted using 100% recycled 18k white gold. Each piece of diamond used in the collection is
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Modernist Wedding Rings

Materials

White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Matthia s Claire 18k White Gold Spiral Ring with Diamonds
By Matthia s Claire
Located in New Orleans, LA
Specifications: - 18kt White Gold - Handcrafted in Switzerland - Customization, made-to-order
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modernist More Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

18k Rose Gold Ring with Blue and White Diamonds
Located in Athens, GR
18k rose gold dainty ring with 0.16 carats blue diamonds and 0.28 carats brilliant cut diamonds.
Category

2010s Greek Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Blue Diamond, Rose Gold

18 Karat White Gold Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Ring, 1970s
Located in Sydney, NSW
A cluster ring featuring 10 oval cut medium blue Ceylon sapphires set within a foliate design of 25
Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, White Gold

Solitaire Aquamarine and Diamond Illusion Set Ring in White Gold
Located in Yorkshire, West Yorkshire
and all down each shoulder. This ring is fully set in 9ct White Gold with a modern feel to it. Ring
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Modernist Solitaire Rings

Materials

Aquamarine, Diamond, 9k Gold, White Gold

Diamond Cocktail Ring in 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Lake Havasu City, AZ
Nine diamond cocktail ring with 1.25 carats of GH color diamonds SI1 and SI2 one is I1. (white
Category

Vintage 1980s American Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold

1970s Paul Buchwald 5.45 Carat Tourmaline Diamond White Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Dusseldorf, NRW
1970s Paul Buchwald 5.45 ct Tourmaline Diamond White Gold Cocktail Ring 14k white gold, green
Category

20th Century Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Tourmaline, 14k Gold

18k Rose Gold Circles Ring with Blue and White Diamonds
Located in Athens, GR
Circles ring in 18k rose gold with 0.30 carats blue diamonds and 0.08 carats brilliant cut diamonds.
Category

2010s Greek Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Blue Diamond, Rose Gold

Ring in 18 Kt White Gold, Sapphires and Brilliant Cut Diamonds
Located in Palermo, IT
Set natural sapphires for a total of 0.75 carats (one is slightly darker in color) and brilliant cut diamonds, G color, Vs1, ct 0.45); Size 13 but on request I can have it modified b...
Category

2010s Modernist Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold

Ring in 18 kt White Gold, Sapphires and Brilliant cut diamonds
Located in Palermo, IT
Set natural sapphires for a total of 0.75 carats (one is slightly darker in color) and brilliant cut diamonds, G color, Vs1, ct 0.45); Size 13 but on request I can have it modified b...
Category

2010s Modernist Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold

14 Karat White Gold Double Halo 1.55 Carat Diamond Ring - Shlomit Rogel
By Shlomit Rogel
Located in Ramatgan, IL
14 Karat White Gold Double Halo 1.55 Carat Diamond Ring - Shlomit Rogel *VIDEO INCLUDED IN THIS
Category

2010s Israeli Modernist Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold, Gold, 18k Gold

14K White Gold 2.33CT Diamond 3-Stone Filigree Bridal Engagement Ring Set
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Heavy 14K white gold 2.33CT diamond 3-stone filigree bridal engagement ring set. This awe-inspiring
Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Modernist Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

Udozzo, 18 Karat White Gold Ladies Men Red Ruby Diamond Statement Cocktail Ring
Located in Geisenfeld, DE
This glorious and impressive 18k White Gold Diamond Ring with 9 rubies totalling at almost 1ct is
Category

2010s British Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold

Lizunova Baguette Diamond 18 karat White Gold Ring
By Lizunova Fine Jewels
Located in Sydney, NSW
Inspired by the Modernist architecture, this contemproary white gold ring features an elegant, top
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Australian Contemporary Band Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Certified Radiant Cut 0.65 Carat Diamond Halo Ring 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Preston, Lancashire
diamond. Crafted in 18 karat white gold by our expert artisans partners in the UK, the contemporary ring
Category

2010s British Modernist Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

De Vroomen 18 Karat Yellow Gold and White Diamond 1979 Band Ring
By Leo de Vroomen
Located in London , GB
A diamond ring made by Leo De Vroomen in 1979. The ring has a textured band set with an undulating
Category

Vintage 1970s British Modernist Band Rings

Materials

White Diamond, 18k Gold

18 Karat White Gold Sapphire and Diamond Ring Made in Italy with Box
Located in MIlan, IT
18 Karat White Gold Sapphire and Diamond Ring set with 2.56 carats of diamonds pear shape and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modernist Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold

9Kt Rose Gold White Quartz Stones Cocktail Modern Fashion Amazing Ring
Located in GALLARATE, IT
Fashion modern cocktail ring in 9kt rose gold with white quartz stone handemade in Italy by
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

Quartz, Rose Gold, 9k Gold

GIA Certified 0.22 Carat Marquise-Cut White Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Tear Ring
By EDXÚ
Located in London, GB
Ring is a made-to-order item crafted using 100% recycled 18k yellow gold. The diamond is natural and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary European Modernist Solitaire Rings

Materials

White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Kutchinsky 18 Karat Yellow Gold with White Diamond Enamel Ring
By Joseph Kutchinsky
Located in London , GB
An enamel and diamond dress ring, dated 1969. Of foliate bombe design, with blue and green enamel
Category

Antique 19th Century British Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Enamel

18 Karat Yellow White Gold Yellow Sapphire Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Indooroopilly, QLD
18 Karat Yellow White Gold Yellow Sapphire Diamond Cocktail Ring Center stone is a pear shape
Category

Early 2000s Australian Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Sapphire, 18k Gold

18K Yellow Gold 0.51 Carat Round Brilliant Cut White Diamonds Pave Halo Ring
By EDXÚ
Located in London, GB
The Halo Ring, Inspired by the world of Physics, Galaxy and love, is a new interpretation of
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Modernist Wedding Rings

Materials

White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

GIA Certified 0.22 Carat Emerald-Cut White Diamond 18k Rose Gold Tear Ring
By EDXÚ
Located in London, GB
, the Tear Emerald Ring took inspiration from nature, architecture, and calligraphy to create a
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Modernist Engagement Rings

Materials

White Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Bulgari Modern Diamond Gold Cocktail Ring
By Bulgari
Located in London, GB
Stylish 18ct White Gold and Diamond Ring created by Bulgari. Finger size N 1/2
Category

Vintage 1980s French Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

Flower Ring in 14k White Gold with Blue and pink Diamonds IGI Certified
By Rainbow Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
and blue diamonds arranged in a flower shape will always make you outstand upon the crowd White Gold
Category

Late 20th Century American Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

Pink Diamond, Blue Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

18 Karat White Gold Tanzanite Cocktail Ring Made in Italy Comes in a Box
Located in MIlan, IT
18 Karat White gold ring set with 0.48 carats of diamonds round cut color G clarity VS and 3.83
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Tanzanite, 18k Gold, White Gold

10 Carat Emerald Cut Amethyst Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Sydney CBD, AU
Fabulous Emerald cut 10ct Amethyst cocktail ring, set in 14ct gold. 14ct white gold (acid tested
Category

Vintage 1960s Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Amethyst, White Gold

Vintage 14k Gold Black White Onyx Scalloped Ring with Diamonds, One-of-a-kind
Located in London, GB
Vintage 14k Gold Black & White Onyx Scalloped Ring with Diamonds, One-of-a-kind This vintage ring
Category

Vintage 1980s Modernist Dome Rings

Materials

Diamond, Onyx, Gold, 14k Gold

Gold White Coral Cocktail Ring 18 Karat One of a Kind Modern Handmade Crochet
By Shenhav Russo
Located in Kfar Saba, IL
Beautifully crafted hand crochet gold thread (7.31 grams) ring with a natural white Coral (weighing
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Israeli Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Coral, 18k Gold

Ring 18 Karat Gold White Coral Handmade Crochet Cocktail One of a Kind Statement
By Shenhav Russo
Located in Kfar Saba, IL
Beautifully crafted hand crochet gold thread (7.31 grams) ring with a natural white Coral (weighing
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Israeli Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Coral, 18k Gold

1.00ct Princess Cut Moissanite Bridal Ring Set in 14K White and Rose Gold
Located in Los Angeles, CA
/ Graded G SI1 - Metal: 14K White and Rose Gold (Rose Gold can be changed to Yellow or White upon request
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modernist Bridal Rings

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold

Kutchinsky 18 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Ring
By Joseph Kutchinsky
Located in London , GB
A diamond cocktail ring in the form of de-looped 18 karat yellow gold ruffle, maker's mark London
Category

Mid-20th Century British Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

White Diamond, 18k Gold

Georg Jensen 18 Karat Gold Brilliant Cut Diamond Ring
By Georg Jensen
Located in London, GB
Rare Original Georg Jensen "Magic" 18 Karat White & Yellow Gold with 9 Brilliant Cut Diamonds
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

1990s Albert Sous Unique Postmodernist Emerald Diamond Gold Ring
Located in Dusseldorf, NRW
‘750’ for 18k gold, maker’s mark ‘SOUS’ Germany, 1990s A comfortable to wear post-modernist ring of an
Category

Late 20th Century German Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold

Charles de Temple Diamond and Sapphire 18 Karat Gold Ring
By Charles de Temple
Located in London , GB
A diamond and sapphire 18 karat gold ring, signed CDet for Charles de Temple. Circa 1980's.
Category

Mid-20th Century British Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold

Diamond Standout Stick Ring
By Eraya Diamonds
Located in Austin, TX
exceptional statement ring. Necklace is not included.
Category

2010s Indian Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Tsavorite Fashion Ring 18 Karat
Located in Great Neck, NY
Extremely rare Tsavorite Ring with White Diamonds (19 Carat), Beautiful modernist style, and
Category

Early 20th Century American Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Tsavorite, 18k Gold

Fancy Yellow Diamond Halo Ring AIGI Certified
Located in Great Neck, NY
of white diamonds. Cushion Cut Yellow Diamond - 3.60ct White Diamonds - 1.09ct Ring Metal - 18kwg
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Aquamarine and Diamond Ladies Cocktail Ring
Located in Perth, AU
Big and bold, this 18ct white gold aquamarine and diamond dress ring is platinum set with a medium
Category

Vintage 1950s British Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Aquamarine, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Platinum

Late Midcentury 39.80 Carat Orange Coral Cabochon and Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Seattle, WA
star of the show is a 39.80 carat orange-red coral cabochon set in 18KT white gold. Accenting one
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Coral, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Early Brilliant Cut Vintage G VS to H SI1 Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in Sydney CBD, AU
Beautiful! Diamond Platinum Engagement ring in 18ct white gold. Lovingly and fully restored to
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modernist Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, Platinum

IGI Certified 0.52 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Pave platinum Ring
By EDXÚ
Located in London, GB
This Galaxy-inspired diamond ring features a 0.52ct round brilliant-cut diamond in a 6 claws
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Modernist Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Matthia s Claire "Cube" Triple Ring 18K WG with Diamonds and Blue Sapphires
By Matthia s Claire
Located in New Orleans, LA
. Specifications: -26.4 grams - 18k gold - White Gold - 0.48 pave diamonds, 0.74 pave Blue Sapphires - Ring Size 6
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modernist Band Rings

Materials

Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold

GIA Certified 2.02 Carat Cushion Cut Green Diamond Halo Pendant Ring
Located in PARIS, FR
: Colorless and Pink marquise 2,67 carats Materials/Metals: 18k white/pink gold (AU750) Your jewelry will
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hong Kong Modernist Wedding Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Pink Diamond, 18k Gold

Chunky Modernist White Gold Ring, French
Located in Litchfield, CT
white diamonds (G color VS clarity) are framed by polished white eighteen karat gold. The look is
Category

Vintage 1980s French Band Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Modernist Yellow Gold White Pearl Ring
Located in London, GB
An 18 karat yellow gold ring with organic texture set with a white cultured pearl measuring 8mm in
Category

20th Century Swiss Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Pearl, Cultured Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Modernist 14 Karat White Gold Diamond Ring
Located in Brisbane City, QLD
This rather moderne looking white gold and diamond ring is as interesting when on the finger as it
Category

20th Century European Modernist Band Rings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold

Modernist Turquoise Cabochon 0.30 Carats Diamond 18 Karat Gold Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
carat with G/H color and SI in clarity With maker's mark and stamped 18K for 18 karat gold Ring Size
Category

20th Century Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Modernist White Coral Ring
By Gump s San Francisco
Located in Litchfield, CT
Circa 1970s, 14k, attributed Gump's, American. This American modernist ring blends clean
Category

Vintage 1970s American Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

Coral, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Modernist Aquamarine and Diamond-set White Gold Ring
Located in Litchfield, CT
Circa 1960s, 18k, Switzerland. This gorgeous sixties ring is set with a finely hued 12.80-carat
Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Aquamarine, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Modernist Black Enamel Diamonds White and Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Birmingham, AL
This beautiful ring is made in 18k yellow gold with w hite gold behind the diamonds. The main focus
Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold

1960 s Modernist 0.45 Carat Diamond 14 Karat Yellow Gold Fidget Spinner Ring
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Ring is designed as two spinning circles riveted on an axis. One circle is polished gold while
Category

Vintage 1960s Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Three Modernist Gold Stacking Rings
Located in Litchfield, CT
Circa 1970s, 18k. Industrial design meets chic in these stacking rings, each a different color of
Category

Vintage 1970s Modernist Fashion Rings

Materials

18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

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Modernist White Gold Ring For Sale on 1stDibs

Find the exact modernist white gold ring you’re shopping for in the variety available on 1stDibs. Each design created in this style — which was crafted with great care and often made from Gold, 18k Gold and White Gold — can elevate any look. Find an antique version now, or shop for 449 vintage or 172 modern creation for a more contemporary example of these cherished accessories. Finding the perfect modernist white gold ring may mean sifting through those created during different time periods — you can find an early version that dates to the 19th Century and a newer variation that were made as recently as the 21st Century. There have been many well-made iterations of the classic modernist white gold ring over the years, but those made by Cartier, Van Cleef Arpels and Bulgari are often thought to be among the most beautiful. A modernist white gold ring can be a stylish choice for most occasions, but Diamond rings, from our inventory of 379, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look, day or night. A round cut version of this piece has appeal, but there are also brilliant cut and oval cut versions for sale. Finding a modernist white gold ring for sale for women should be easy, but there are 200 pieces available to browse for unisex as well as men, too.

How Much is a Modernist White Gold Ring?

The price for a modernist white gold ring starts at $120 and tops out at $200,000 with these rings, on average, selling for $3,800.

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.  

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 ringsvintage 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.

Questions About Modernist White Gold Ring
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
    Yes, white gold can be used in wedding rings. In fact, the precious metal offers distinctive benefits because it doesn't tarnish and resists corrosion. The metal is also relatively malleable, allowing it to be adorned with intricate details and engravings. Shop a range of white gold wedding rings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
    Whether platinum or white gold is better for engagement rings is a matter of personal preference. Each type of precious metal has certain advantages. White gold tends to be more affordable and is less malleable, increasing its durability. Platinum requires less maintenance and retains its color over time. Find a variety of platinum and white gold engagement rings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
    Whether you should wear a yellow or white gold sapphire ring is a matter of personal choice. Some people love the look of contrasting metals and stones, so they may prefer to place a cool blue or clear sapphire in a warm-toned yellow gold setting. Those who want a more unified look can choose metals and gemstones with a similar color temperature, such as white gold with a blue sapphire. Shop a wide variety of sapphire rings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2023
    What karat white gold is best for wedding rings depends on personal preferences. Generally, 18-karat white gold has more visible yellow undertones because it contains more gold. Because it is a harder metal, 14-karat white gold may resist scratches better than 18-karat. On 1stDibs, find a variety of white gold wedding rings.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2024
    How much a 10k white gold ring is worth changes over time. On its own, 10-karat white gold has value, but scrap metal prices tend to fluctuate. A ring may be worth more than the going rate for 10-karat white gold based on its maker, age, style and other factors. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable jeweler can provide you with a more specific valuation. Explore a collection of white gold rings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2023
    Yes, you can wear a rose gold wedding band with a white gold engagement ring if you wish. Your bridal jewelry should represent your sense of style, so you're free to mix and match pieces however you see fit. If you want to create a cohesive look, choose a wedding band and an engagement ring with similar elements, such as matching gemstones or decorative embellishments. Find a large selection of wedding bands and engagement rings on 1stDibs.