Opal Ring Estate
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Opal, 14k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Modern Cocktail Rings
Opal, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century Retro Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Fire Opal, 14k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Engagement Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
20th Century Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1980s Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1950s Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1970s Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Engagement Rings
Diamond, Black Opal, Platinum
Antique 19th Century Cluster Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Cocktail Rings
Opal, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Opal, Gold, Sterling Silver
Late 20th Century Modernist Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, Platinum
Late 20th Century Modernist Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Fire Opal
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Fashion Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
Late 20th Century Modernist Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
Vintage 1930s American Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Palladium
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Black Opal, Opal, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
20th Century Unknown Cocktail Rings
Opal, Fire Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century Fashion Rings
Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, Platinum
Vintage 1980s Fashion Rings
Diamond, Black Opal, Opal, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Fashion Rings
Diamond, Opal, Tourmaline, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1940s Cocktail Rings
Opal, Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Modern Cocktail Rings
Opal, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Italian Contemporary Cluster Rings
Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold
Mid-20th Century Italian Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Fire Opal, 18k Gold
Vintage 1970s Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
20th Century Art Deco Fashion Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary North American Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Platinum
1990s American Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, Platinum
2010s Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold
Late 20th Century Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Black Pearl, Black Opal, 18k Gold, Platinum, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Late 20th Century American Modern Cocktail Rings
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Opal, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, Sterling Silver
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Black Opal, White Gold
2010s Cocktail Rings
Opal, 14k Gold, White Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Platinum
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 20th Century Unknown Engagement Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Unknown Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold
Late 20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, White Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Opal, Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Tanzanite, Opal, 14k Gold
Vintage 1950s American Retro Fashion Rings
Jade, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Fire Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
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Opal Ring Estate For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Opal Ring Estate?
The Legacy of Opal in Jewelry Design
Opals were discovered in 400 BC, and since then five types have been found throughout the world. Before you start shopping for mysteriously beautiful vintage opal rings and other opal jewelry, learn about the different varieties of the gem — and find out which historical figure was reportedly willing to trade his kingdom for a single stone.
Here is a little riddle for you: the month of October has two birthstones, but only one of them encompasses the colors of other birthstones. If you guessed opal, you’re right! (The other gemstone associated with the month of October is tourmaline.)
Opals are such unusual gemstones that there are too many old-wives tales associated with them, like if you’re a blond, wearing an opal necklace will protect your locks from losing color. Opals were also very fashionable in the early 19th century, up until the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s novel Anne of Geierstein in 1829. The title heroine wears an opal and succumbs to an untimely death. However, the British monarchy, and in particular Queen Victoria, did not let this story get in their way, and they frequently gifted opals to friends and family members. October babies should disregard the noise and proudly wear their opals!
There are five types of precious opals: boulder opal, fire opal, crystal/water opal, black opal, and white/light opal. Each variety is distinguished by its color.
So, where does the name come from? The word opal is thought to originate from the Roman opalus or from the Sanskrit úpala (“precious stone”) or from the Greek opallios (“to see a color change”). So while there have been many names for the stones, opals were first discovered in 400 BC in Ethiopia. But the early reference that comes up most often in history books is from the Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder, who wrote about it in 75 AD. In his text he refers to it as opali. The Romans were big fans of opal, Mark Antony was so enamored by it that, as the story goes, he was willing to trade a portion of his kingdom for a single opal.
There's a wide variety of antique and vintage opal jewelry on 1stDibs (and you won't have to trade your kingdom for it).
Finding the Right Cocktail-rings for You
A flashy symbol of wealth during the early 20th century, antique and vintage cocktail rings have gained broader appeal in the decades since for the hefty dose of glamour they bring to any ensemble.
Cocktail rings earned their name for their frequent appearances during glitzy cocktail parties at the height of the Prohibition era. Back then, these accessories were seen not only as statement pieces but as statements in and of themselves. They openly represented a sense of freedom and independence as well as a demonstration of opulence. After all, the 1920s heralded the Harlem Renaissance and Art Deco design, and a slew of social and cultural shifts meant that women in particular were breaking from pre–World War I conventions and embracing newfound freedoms to express themselves as individuals.
Women expressly wore cocktail rings on the fingers of their right hand versus the left, which was “reserved” for an engagement ring or wedding band, accessories definitely paid for by a suitor. And for cocktail rings, the bigger the colored gem at the center — which is usually mounted in a high setting — and the more elaborate the design, the stronger the likelihood of being noticed.
Cocktail rings remained a popular piece of jewelry for women until the 1930s, when the Great Depression and the onset of war marked a change in behaviors nationwide. While the 1960s and ’70s saw a return in visibility for the accessory, it wasn’t until the 1980s that cocktail rings once again assumed their position as a beacon of luxury and glitz.
During the 20th century, the range of dazzling cocktail rings seems to have been limitless, from glimmering gold rings set with carved jade diamonds designed by David Webb to Pomellato’s pink quartz confections to striking Gucci butterfly rings with accent diamonds set in a pavé fashion.
So, how do you wear a cocktail ring? Cocktail rings “can be worn for almost anything — dinners, date nights, parties, special events, on the red carpet,” explains David Joseph of New York-based jewelry brand Bochic.
Can you wear cocktail rings with other rings? “In my opinion, cocktail rings should stand on their own since they showcase a large gem in the center,” says Joseph.
These glamorous jewels can be worn inside or outside crowded taverns, in either daytime or nighttime with casual or dressy attire. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of antique and vintage cocktail rings, including those offered by Chanel, whose elegant cocktail rings often feature pearls and, of course, diamonds, and sometimes were styled after showy flowers like the camellia, and Van Cleef Arpels, whose detailed and intricate designs are viewed as miniature pieces of wearable art.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023No, opals aren't bad for engagement rings. One drawback of the gemstone is that it isn't as hard as many other popular gems, like diamonds, emeralds and sapphires, so it may be more susceptible to scratches. However, you can still choose an opal engagement ring if you wish. Taking it off before you engage in activities that could damage the ring can help extend its life. Shop an assortment of opal engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- Do opal engagement rings last?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2023Yes, an opal engagement ring can last if you care for it properly. Generally, opals are more delicate than other gemstones commonly used in engagement rings, like diamonds, sapphires and emeralds. As a result, they can be easily damaged, making it important that you take your ring off before performing household chores, exercising, playing sports or doing other activities where you'll use your hands a lot. Find a collection of opal engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- Can you wear an opal ring everyday?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021No, you cannot wear an opal ring everyday. Since they are relatively fragile compared to other stones, opals are not durable for daily-wear.
Dover JewelryFebruary 24, 2021Not recommended! Opals are more delicate then other gemstones and if cared for correctly will last a lifetime and can be handed down throughout generations. - 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021No, opal is not good for engagement rings. Although opal is a beautiful stone, it is not the best choice for an engagement ring. Since they are relatively fragile compared to diamonds and sapphires, opals are not durable for daily wear.
- Can opal rings be worn everyday?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Opal rings are very delicate compared to other stones, and are not recommended for everyday wear. However, with proper care, they can last through the generations. Shop a collection of expertly vetted gems from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Are opal rings Bad luck?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Although opals were considered good luck in Roman culture and a symbol of good luck, there are many legends that link opals with death and bad omens.
- Is opal good for wedding rings?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023Yes, opal can be good for wedding rings. Many people love the unique coloration of opals and opt for wedding rings set with them. One thing to keep in mind is that opals are more delicate than many other gemstones like sapphires, rubies and diamonds, so they are more vulnerable to scratching and breakage. It is a good idea to remove your wedding ring before working with tools, performing chores, playing sports or engaging in other activities that could potentially damage your opal. Explore a variety of opal wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021While opals are more fragile than diamonds, adding a higher risk for a daily-wear ring, they can still be good engagement rings. Opals are thought of as precious and powerful and are said to symbolize fidelity so can be great and unique rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Yes, opal engagement rings can be a good idea. This stone represents faithfulness, confidence, and creativity -- making the stone a fitting choice for an engagement ring. Opals, however, are not ideal for everyday wear.
- 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024The difference between vintage, antique and estate engagement rings comes down to age and history. Rings that are over 100 years old are antiques, while those produced 20 to 99 years ago are vintage. Estate engagement rings are any rings that have had a previous owner. They can include antique, vintage and even contemporary rings produced during the last 20 years. Shop a large selection of engagement rings on 1stDibs.
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