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Golden South Sea Pearl with Yellow Sapphire and Diamond Ring set in 18K Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Golden South Sea Pearl with Yellow Sapphire 0.83 carat and Diamond 0.53 carat Ring set in 18K Gold
Category

2010s Thai Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Yellow Sapphire, 18k Gold

Edwardian Platinum Gold and Gem Set Hair Barrett
Located in Chicago, IL
wide. Centrally set with a Square step cut Emerald of very fine Color, Natural Pearls, and further
Category

Vintage 1910s Unknown Edwardian More Jewelry

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Natural Pearl, Gold, Platinum

Van Cleef Arpels Cultured Pearl and Diamond Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Vancleave and Arpels, cultured pearl and diamond ring set with a round pearl measuring
Category

2010s French Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold

Diamond Pearl Tassel Earrings
Located in London, GB
A pair of diamond and pearl tassel earrings, diamond flower set with old-cut and eight-cut diamonds
Category

Vintage 1950s Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Gold, White Gold

Pearl and Diamond Point 18 Carat Gold Ring
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
This sweet ring holds five lovely pearls and has rose cut diamond points set in between them. The
Category

Antique 1880s British Victorian Bridal Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold

Pink Pearl and Diamond Drop Pendant in Rose Gold
By Le Vian
Located in Webster, NY
Le Vian pink pearl and chocolate diamond pendant set in 14K rose gold. Gemstone: Pearl & Diamond
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 14k Gold

Yellow Gold Paul Morelli Mabe Pearl and Diamond Earrings
By Paul Morelli
Located in Dallas, TX
This set of Mabe pearl and Diamond Earrings set in 18k Yellow gold comes from Paul Morelli and are
Category

Vintage 1980s Modern Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Yellow Gold

Estate 14 Karat Gold, Diamond and Mother of Pearl Tuxedo Cufflinks and Studs Set
Located in Birmingham, AL
cufflinks and studs that have a round mother of pearl base that is set with sparkling round diamond accent
Category

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Cufflinks

Materials

White Diamond, 14k Gold

Antique Pearl, Diamond and Gold Three Stone Ring
Located in London, GB
An antique pearl and diamond three stone ring, set with natural pearls, either side of a cushion
Category

Antique 1890s British Late Victorian Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold

Cultured Pearl Diamond Gold Earrings
Located in New York, NY
Pair of elegant 18 karat yellow gold cultured pearl and diamond stud earrings centrally set with
Category

2010s Contemporary Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold

Modern Peridot, Pearl, Diamond and 18 Karat Gold Earrings
Located in London, GB
A pair of peridot, pearl and diamond earrings, set with eight graduating pear shaped peridots, with
Category

2010s British Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Peridot, 18k Gold

Mabe Pearl and Diamond Earrings - 14K Yellow Gold
Located in New York, NY
sophistication and luxury. These exquisite earrings feature lustrous mabe pearls and brilliant diamonds, all set
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

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

14 Karat White Gold Pearl and Diamond Dangle Earrings
Located in Washington Depot, CT
mm pearl and nine round brilliant cut diamonds set in classic 14K white gold. Approximate total
Category

20th Century Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 14k Gold, White Gold

Platinum Vintage Natural Untreated Kunzite Pearl and Diamond Earrings
Located in New York, NY
earrings Pink kunzite bezel set in fine platinum setting Four pearls and 4 rose cut diamonds hanging off a
Category

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Kunzite, Pearl, Platinum

Fine Diamond and Stud Akoya Pearl 14 Karat Earrings Certified
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This is a Certified Authentic Fine Quality LARGE 9.35 mm Akoya Saltwater Pearl and Diamond Diamond
Category

2010s Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 14k Gold

Vintage South Sea Pearl and Inlay Diamond Platinum Stud Earrings
Located in Montreal, QC
Simply Beautiful! Elegant and Stylish 14.20mm White Luminous South Sea Pearl and Inlay Diamond Stud
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Platinum

Yoko London Pink and White Pearl Multi-Row Long Necklace Set in 18 Karat Gold
By Yoko London
Located in London, GB
Pearls -18 Karat White Gold Diamond Set Clasp -Shortest Row Length 24" (60cm) - Longest Row 34" (86cm).
Category

2010s British Contemporary Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Cultured Pearl, Freshwater Pearl, 18k Gold

Chinese Freshwater Pearl Diamond Ring
Located in Palm Desert, CA
14 Karat Chinese Freshwater Pearl Diamond Ring. The ring features one bezel-set organic-shaped
Category

1990s American Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Freshwater Pearl, Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold

Tiffany Co. Platinum Pearl Diamond Necklace
By Tiffany Co.
Located in Dallas, TX
freshwater pearls and seven bezel-set, round diamonds and is secured with a toggle clasp. The diamonds have
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Link Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Platinum

Mikimoto Cultured Pearl Diamond Earrings
By Mikimoto
Located in Dallas, TX
Classically designed Mikimoto cultured pearls and diamond earrings with omega backs. Set in 18
Category

21st Century and Contemporary More Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

1910s 2.61 Carat Diamond and Seed Pearl Yellow Gold Bracelet
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
alternately between eight 3mm seed pearl set links. The pearls and diamonds are pavé set to a floral setting
Category

Vintage 1910s Unknown Chain Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold

Mabé Pearl and Diamond Clip-On Earrings in Yellow Gold
Located in London, England
An incredibly unique pair of swirl design mabé pearl and diamond clip on earrings set in 18k yellow
Category

Vintage 1980s Unknown Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold

14 Karat White Gold, Diamond and Pearl Cluster Floriform Clip Earrings
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine pair of pearl and diamond cluster clip-on earrings set in the form of a flower. Set in 14K
Category

20th Century Clip-on Earrings

Materials

White Diamond, Pearl, White Gold

Vintage Tiffany Co. Fireworks Pearl and Diamond Pendant Necklace in Platinum
By Tiffany Co.
Located in London, England
A beautiful vintage Tiffany & Co. ‘Fireworks’ pearl and diamond pendant necklace set in platinum
Category

Early 2000s Unknown Modern Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Platinum

Fei Liu Mother of Pearl Diamond Pearl White Gold Drop Earrings
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Description: Alyssum pearl drop earrings with flower shaped mother of pearls, 0.26ct diamond-set
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Freshwater Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold

Vintage Tiffany Co. Fireworks Tahitian Pearl and Diamond Necklace in Platinum
By Tiffany Co.
Located in London, England
A beautiful vintage Tiffany & Co. ‘Fireworks’ Tahitian pearl and diamond pendant necklace set in
Category

Early 2000s Unknown Modern Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Platinum

Yoko London Pearl and Ruby Three-Row Tassel Choker set in 18 Karat White Gold
By Yoko London
Located in London, GB
Freshwater Pearls. - 18 Karat White Gold Diamond Set Clasp (96 Diamonds, Total Carat Weight: 0.68ct) - 18
Category

2010s British Art Deco Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Cultured Pearl, Freshwater Pearl, Ruby, 1...

Fine Diamond and Freshwater Pearl 14 Karat Designer Men s Ladies Cufflinks
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This is a Certified Designer Authentic Fine Quality Large FW Pearl and Diamond Cufflinks set in
Category

2010s Modern Cufflinks

Materials

Diamond, Freshwater Pearl, 14k Gold

Antique Diamond and Mother of Pearl Cufflinks, Edwardian circa 1918
By Carrington Co
Located in Aspen, CO
Antique cufflinks with engraved edges surrounding white mother of pearl and a bead set diamond in
Category

Early 20th Century American Edwardian Cufflinks

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Platinum

18ct White Gold Earrings, Set With 2 Gray Cultured Pearls And 2 Brilliants
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
18ct white gold earrings set with 2 grey cultured pearls and 2 diamonds  Total weight: 2.73gr 2
Category

Vintage 1980s French Art Deco Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, White Gold

Platinum 13mm South Sea Pearl and Baguette Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in New York, NY
South Sea Pearl Diamond Ring. Perfectly balancing classic sophistication with modern design, this
Category

20th Century American Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Platinum

Diamond, Kunzite and Pearl Ring, Earrings and Necklace All in Gold Platinum
Located in Aspen, CO
Kunzite, diamond and pearls are set in platinum topped gold from the mid 20th century. It is
Category

Mid-20th Century American Aesthetic Movement Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Kunzite, Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Platinum

Vintage 1980s 9K Yellow Gold and White Gold Diamond and Pearl Circular Brooch
Located in Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
A vintage yellow gold, white gold, diamond, and pearl brooch, comprising a round pearl, and 14
Category

Vintage 1980s Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 9k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

Yoko London South Sea Pearl and Diamond Ring in 18k White Gold
By Yoko London
Located in London, GB
formed with a beautiful 13-14mm south sea pearl and a diamond-set feature that elegantly graces either
Category

2010s British Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Pearl, Cultured Pearl, South Sea Pearl, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold

Vintage Cartier Double Pearl and Diamond Pendant in 18k Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in London, England
A unique vintage Cartier double pearl and diamond pendant set in 18k yellow gold. The pendant is
Category

1990s Modern Pendant Necklaces

Materials

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

South Sea Pearl and Round-Cut Diamond 14K Gold "Flower" Motif Drop Earrings
Located in Miami, FL
Stunning South Sea Pearl and Diamond Earrings adorned by 6 South Sea Pearls and 30 Round-Brilliant
Category

20th Century Retro Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Freshwater Pearl, South Sea Pear...

14 Karat Yellow Gold Seed Pearl and Diamond Pin/Brooch
Located in Washington Depot, CT
pearls and one round European cut diamond set in beautifully detailed 14K yellow gold. Approximate total
Category

20th Century Brooches

Materials

Pearl, Yellow Gold

Vintage 14-Karat Yellow Gold Pearl and Diamond Cocktail Ring, circa 1960s
Located in New York, NY
A vintage 14-karat yellow gold, cultured pearl, and diamond cocktail ring, circa mid-20th century
Category

Mid-20th Century American Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Gold

14 Karat Yellow Gold Seed Pearl and Diamond Pendant / Brooch
Located in Washington Depot, CT
seed pearls and one round European cut diamond set in a lovely floral design. Can be worn as a brooch
Category

20th Century Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Pearl, Yellow Gold

Cartier Pearl and Diamond Bombe Cocktail Ring in 18 Karat Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in London, England
A beautiful cultured pearl and diamond bombe ring set in 18k yellow gold, signed Cartier. The
Category

Vintage 1980s British Retro Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

Bvlgari 18k Rose Gold Flip Ring Set W/Mother of Pearl and Pave Diamonds
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
round Stones Diamond
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Cultured Pearl Diamond Gold Dangle Clip Earrings
Located in Dallas, TX
These amazing clip earrings feature apx. 7mm-8mm cultured pearls and 0.25 carats of diamonds set in
Category

20th Century Dangle Earrings

Materials

Cultured Pearl, Diamond, White Gold

Antique Victorian 15K Yellow Gold Pearl and Diamond Moon and Star Stick Pin
Located in Staines-Upon-Thames, GB
as a pearl set moon, accompanied by a diamond set star. The crescent shaped moon is set with 7 seed
Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 15k Gold, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold

1920s Antique German Natural Pearl and 0.37 Carat Diamond, Yellow Gold Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A fine and impressive antique German 0.37 carat diamond and natural pearl, 14 carat yellow gold and
Category

Vintage 1920s German Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 14k Gold, Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique Turquoise, Split Pearl and Diamond Ring, 9k Yellow Gold, Victorian
Located in NEWARK, GB
This gorgeous antique, Turquoise, split pearl and diamond ring has a very romantic twist to it
Category

Antique 19th Century British Victorian Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Turquoise, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold

10 Karat White Cultured Pearl Diamond Ring
Located in Palm Desert, CA
pearls and five, four-prong-set diamonds. The pearl hues are a blend of pink and blue-green. The diamonds
Category

Vintage 1980s American Retro Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Cultured Pearl, Yellow Gold, Gold, 10k Gold

14 Karat White Gold, Pearl and Diamond Pendant Necklace
Located in Washington Depot, CT
four seed pearls and one round brilliant cut diamond set in exquisite 14K white gold filigree. Suspends
Category

20th Century Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

18 Carat White Gold Natural Pearl and 1 Carat Diamond Crossover Moi et Toi Ring
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
This elegant Edwardian ring features an Old European cut diamond claw set and a natural pearl. The
Category

Early 20th Century Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Natural Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold

Vintage Ribbon Topped Pearl and Diamond Drop Earrings in 18k White Gold
Located in London, England
A beautiful pair of vintage pearl and diamond drop earrings set in 18k white gold. Each earring
Category

Vintage 1970s British Art Deco Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Tahitian Pearl Diamond Platinum Ring
By Michael Beaudry
Located in Chevy Chase, MD
A wonderful 13mm Tahitian pearl and diamond ring set in platinum. The pearl exhibits a beautiful
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Black Diamond, Diamond, Platinum

Tear Drop Pearl and Round Pavé Diamond Dangle Earrings in 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This exquisite pair of teardrop-shaped pearl and diamond dangle earrings are beautifully set in 18
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Art Deco Pearl and Diamond Bracelet Wide 4 Strand Row Wide Japanese Akoya
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
Understated vintage elegance awaits the wearer of this sublime Art Deco pearl and diamond bracelet
Category

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Beaded Bracelets

Materials

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

Modern Cultured Pearl Diamonds 18 Karat White Gold Earrings
Located in Poitiers, FR
which the grapes are cultured pearls and the leaves are diamonds set with claws. The clasp is a nail
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

Pearl, Diamond, White Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

18 Karat Gold Temple St Clair Pearl Diamond Earrings
By Temple St. Clair
Located in London, England
A fine pair of contemporary Temple St Clair cultured pearl and round brilliant diamond set earrings
Category

2010s American Hoop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Black Mother of Pearl and Diamond Studs Earrings in 18 Karat
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in London, England
A beautiful little pair of Van Cleef and Arpels black mother-of-pearl and diamond stud earrings set
Category

Early 2000s French Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

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

Victorian Antique Natural Pearl and Old Mine Cut Diamonds Ring in 18 Carat Gold
Located in London, GB
Indubiously stunning Victorian 1880's pearl and old cut diamonds set in 18 carat yellow gold. The
Category

Antique 1880s British Victorian Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Natural Pearl, 18k Gold, Gold

9 Karat Yellow Gold Mother of Pearl and Diamond Tuxedo Buttons and Cufflinks
Located in Washington Depot, CT
-pearl and one European cut diamond set in beautifully detailed 9K gold. Approximate total diamond weight
Category

20th Century Cufflinks

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

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Pearl And Diamond Sets For Sale on 1stDibs

On 1stDibs, there are many options to choose from in our inventory of pearl and diamond sets. Frequently made of Gold, 18k Gold and Yellow Gold, these items were constructed with great care. Our collection of these items for sale includes 195 vintage editions and 138 modern creations to choose from as well. Our collection is diverse and broad-ranging, and pieces in stock date back to the 19th Century while others were produced as recently as the 21st Century. Our collection of pearl and diamond sets includes designs that are universally popular, but Modern and Contemporary styles, specifically, are sought with frequency. Versions of these items have been a part of the life’s work for many jewelers, but those produced by Yoko London, ANANYA and Sunita Nahata are consistently popular. There are many round cut, brilliant cut and briolette cut pearl and diamond sets for sale. Most of our pearl and diamond sets for sale are for women, but there are 95 pieces available to browse for men.

How Much are Pearl And Diamond Sets?

On average, pearl and diamond sets at 1stDibs sell for $4,767, while they’re typically $475 on the low end and $353,910 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 Pearl And Diamond Sets
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    While pearls are valuable because they are only produced from oysters, they are generally less expensive than diamonds.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    An illusion diamond setting helps to enhance the size of the stone. The precious metal the ring is made from is intricately designed around the diamond. From a distance, this makes the diamond itself appear much larger. Shop a collection of illusion-set diamonds from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A flower set diamond is a setting where a diamond is surrounded by a smaller cluster of diamonds, giving the appearance of a flower. Flower set diamonds are a popular choice to add more sparkle and increase the size of a piece. Browse an array of flower set diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A channel diamond setting refers to a diamond gemstone ring with a specific setting called a channel. It is a deep groove carved into the metal band. A jewelry maker sets diamond accent stones into the setting so they are level with the shank. You'll find a collection of diamond gemstone rings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
    One of the best settings for oval diamonds is the prong. The most frequent and classic setting type, it exposes the majority of the diamond and lets more light penetrate, increasing its brightness and shine.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021
    The best setting for a solitaire diamond is the prong setting. In such a setting, the stone is held in place with a minimal amount of metal allowing more light to pass through the diamond resulting in added brilliance. Find a collection of solitaire diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 12, 2023
    Whether Cartier will set a loose diamond depends on the circumstances. If you purchased a piece of Cartier diamond jewelry and the stone has come loose, contact customer service for assistance with repairs. Cartier will usually not place a loose diamond that you purchased elsewhere in one of their settings. Find a wide range of Cartier diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2023
    Yes, you can wear pearl earrings with diamond earrings if you wish. One way to tie the look together is to choose pearl and diamond earrings with matching settings. For example, you can pair platinum diamond and pearl earrings or yellow gold diamond and pearl earrings. Shop a large assortment of earrings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
    The best setting for a cushion-cut diamond depends on personal preference. The cushion cut is often referred to as a pillow cut due to its square or rectangular shape with rounded edges. This stone cut comprises 58 facets, like brilliant stones. The cushion cut has been popular since the 18th century. Browse a collection of cushion-cut diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 14, 2023
    Most experts agree that a prong setting is best for diamond stud earrings. Prongs help keep diamonds securely in place. Three-prong settings allow for more of the diamond to remain visible, while four-prong settings may be slightly more secure. For diamond stud earrings with weights of 2 carats or more, a six- or eight-prong setting can increase stability and security. Explore a large selection of diamond stud earrings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The difference between pavé and channel set diamonds is the setting. On pavé jewelry, tiny beads or prongs hold the individual gemstones in place. Channel settings are deep grooves that hold diamonds, eliminating the need for prongs or beads. Shop a large collection of diamond gemstone jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    A marquise-cut diamond looks great in a variety of settings, but you should choose one that protects the center stone. Some of the top marquise diamond ring settings are bezel, prong and halo. Find a variety of marquise-cut diamond rings on 1stDibs today.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021
    The best setting for an emerald-cut diamond is a matter of personal preference. For emerald-cut diamonds, solitaire and pavé settings are popular. The emerald cut comprises 58 facets and truncated corners on a rectangular step-cut stone. The flat pavilion of an emerald-cut diamond can magnify the stone’s imperfections, so the gem’s clarity is key. Initially a popular cut for emeralds only, it is now used on other precious stones, but the name has come to define the style. Find antique and vintage emerald-cut diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023
    There is no single best setting for a diamond tennis necklace. You can find tennis chains with both prong and bezel settings, and both types can keep diamonds secure when they are well crafted. The biggest difference is that full bezel settings encircle the gemstones, while prongs hug the stones with three or four metal elements, leaving most of their edges visible. Feel free to choose the type of setting that appeals most to you. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of diamond tennis necklaces.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023
    Yes, you can wear diamond stud earrings with a pearl necklace. The elegant combination is fashionable for everything from a day at the office to Sunday brunch to a night on the town. To create a bold look, try pairing large diamond studs with a single strand of pearls or a dramatic multi-strand pearl necklace with smaller stud earrings. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of diamond stud earrings and pearl necklaces.