Rare Diamond Ring
Antique Late 18th Century European Georgian Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
20th Century French Dome Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century French Fashion Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Amethyst, Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
1990s French Dome Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century French Fashion Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Citrine, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century French Dome Rings
Onyx, Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, White Gold
20th Century Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century American Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century French Fashion Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Emerald
Vintage 1970s French Cocktail Rings
Ruby, White Diamond, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
20th Century American Solitaire Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
1990s French Fashion Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century Band Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel
20th Century American Solitaire Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Fashion Rings
Diamond, Tanzanite, White Gold
2010s Hong Kong Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Tourmaline, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
20th Century Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s Swiss Solitaire Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Cocktail Rings
Citrine, Diamond, Gold, 10k Gold, White Gold
Early 2000s American More Rings
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Early 20th Century Art Deco More Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, Tanzanite, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Black Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
1990s French Cluster Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s French Cluster Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Hong Kong Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Ruby, White Gold
1990s French Cluster Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s Unknown Engagement Rings
Diamond, Alexandrite, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Pink Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold
1990s French Fashion Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century French Fashion Rings
Onyx, White Diamond, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Contemporary Three-Stone Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 2000s Cluster Rings
Tourmaline, Paraiba, Platinum
Early 2000s American Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Vintage 1950s American More Rings
Diamond, Spinel, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Labradorite, 14k Gold, White Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Tanzanite, Gold, 18k Gold
Vintage 1970s American Modernist Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
2010s American Artist Engagement Rings
Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, Fire Opal, 18k Gold
Antique Mid-19th Century Unknown Cocktail Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 2000s American Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Fashion Rings
Sapphire, Diamond, Platinum
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Pink Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Fashion Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
20th Century French Solitaire Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
20th Century French Band Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1960s American Three-Stone Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
2010s French Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
1990s French Contemporary Band Rings
Diamond, Gold, 15k Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold
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Rare Diamond Ring For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Rare Diamond Ring?
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 rings, vintage 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 rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
The most collectible antique engagement rings and vintage engagement rings are those from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. Named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who in succession ruled England starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign), antique Georgian rings, be they engagement rings or otherwise, are also coveted by collectors. Pearls, along with colored gemstones like garnets, rubies and sapphires, were widely used in Georgian jewelry. The late-1700s paste jewelry was a predecessor to what we now call fashion or costume jewelry.
The Art Nouveau movement (1880–1910) brought with it rings inspired by the natural world. Antique Art Nouveau rings might feature depictions of winged insects and fauna as well as women, who were simultaneously eroticized and romanticized, frequently with long flowing hair. Art Deco jewelry, on the other hand, which originated during the 1920s and ’30s, is by and large “white jewelry.” White metals, primarily platinum, were favored over yellow gold in the design of antique Art Deco rings and other accessories as well as geometric motifs, with women drawn to the era’s dazzling cocktail rings in particular.
Whether you’re hunting down a chunky classic for a Prohibition-themed cocktail party or seeking a clean contemporary design to complement your casual ensemble, find an exquisite collection of antique, new and vintage rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A nine-carat diamond is considered rare and holds a premium price. Because of their rarity and size, nine-carat diamonds are a coveted choice for engagement rings. One of the most famous nine-carat diamond rings belongs to actress Kate Hudson, who has a nine-carat emerald cut diamond complemented with tapered baguettes on a platinum band. Shop a selection of diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Argyle pink diamonds are generally thought of as very rare. This is because pink diamonds account for less than 1 percent of the diamonds mined from the area in Western Australia. You'll find a collection of Argyle pink diamond gemstone jewelry on 1stDibs.
- Is a two-carat diamond rare?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023Yes, a two-carat diamond is generally rarer than a smaller diamond, especially high-quality two-carat diamonds. When larger diamonds are found in nature, they usually have flaws. And prices per carat don’t increase as weight increases. A three-carat gem can be less valuable than a one-carat stone, for example, if all of the other attributes are of lesser quality in the larger diamond. Shop an assortment of diamond jewelry from some of the world’s top jewelers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023Vivid yellow diamonds are extremely rare. In fact, only one out of every 10,000 carats of diamonds mined is yellow. However, yellow is the most common type of colored diamond, accounting for 60% of all colored diamonds. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of yellow diamond jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023Yes, a wedding ring can be a diamond ring. In fact, you're free to wear any type of ring that appeals to you as a wedding ring. You could opt to wear a solitaire diamond ring to symbolize your wedding vows or a band ring that features multiple diamonds, such as an eternity band that shows diamonds all the way around its surface. Find a large selection of diamond wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024No, an engagement ring does not have to be a diamond. Although diamonds are popular, rings featuring other gemstones like sapphires, rubies and emeralds can serve as engagement rings, and it's even possible to choose a ring made entirely out of precious metals with no gemstone accents of any kind. There really are no rules when it comes to engagement rings, so feel free to select any ring that appeals to you. Find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022An illusion diamond ring is a type of diamond setting that enhances the appearance, namely the perceived size, of the diamond. One of the strategies used to create illusion diamonds is to surround the diamond with another precious metal, making it look bigger. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of expertly-vetted illusion diamond rings from some of the world’s top sellers.
- What is a diamond bypass ring?1 Answer
Roman Malakov DiamondsMarch 22, 2021a diamond bypass ring is a fashionable and unique ring that consists of a single metal band that "twists" and do not connect to each other. If it is an engagement ring, this gap between the two ends of the bands holds the diamond. - 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022On a diamond ring, the head is the portion of the jewelry that holds the gemstone in place. You may also see it referred to as the prongs, setting or crown. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of diamond gemstone rings.
- What is a diamond eternity ring?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A diamond eternity ring is a ring that features multiple diamonds, adorned in an endless circular design. This ring normally features a band set with a continuous circle of diamond stones in a manner that can be very glamorous. Diamond eternity rings are available in a variety of styles including Contemporary, Victorian, Retro, Art Deco, Modern, Edwardian, Empire, Renaissance, and Artisan. Find a collection of antique and vintage diamond eternity rings on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The symbolism of a diamond ring is largely a matter of personal opinion. Because diamonds are the most commonly used stones in engagement rings, many people associate them with commitment, undying love and marriage. The diamond is also the gemstone for April. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of diamond gemstone rings.
- What is a floating diamond ring?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021A floating diamond ring is a ring where the center diamond appears to be floating free of the setting or band. Typically, the bands in a floating diamond ring divert away from the stone.
- Do eternity rings have diamonds?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Some eternity or infinity rings feature diamonds, while some feature other gemstones. An eternity ring is a continuous band that is set with a string of gemstones centered in the band. It’s meant to symbolize never-ending love and is often given as a gift on an anniversary. Many people like to have their infinity ring adorned with diamonds, other people simply prefer a different gemstone. Shop a collection of eternity rings from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024No, an engagement ring doesn't have to have a diamond in it. There really are no rules when it comes to engagement jewelry, so any ring that appeals to you can signify your intention to marry someone. Alternatives to diamond rings include simple band rings formed of precious metals and gemstone rings featuring rubies, emeralds, sapphires and other stones. Explore a diverse assortment of engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023Yes, you can wear a diamond ring as a wedding ring if you wish. Your wedding jewelry should reflect your taste and style, so you're free to choose any type of ring you desire. One option is to wear a diamond solitaire as a wedding ring. An eternity wedding band dotted with diamonds is a popular alternative. Many brides opt for two identical eternity bands, wearing one on either side of the engagement ring as guard rings. Shop a wide range of diamond wedding rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023Yes, some men's wedding rings have diamonds. Men are free to wear any type of ring as a wedding ring, and you'll find many options with one or more diamonds set into their bands. Wedding rings for men may also feature colored gemstones, like sapphires or rubies, in addition to or in place of diamonds, or they may be formed entirely out of metal. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of men's wedding rings.
- What is a rose cut diamond ring?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021Rose-cut diamonds are uncommon in modern jewelry and are often associated with antique styles like Victorian or Georgian. The rose cut is circular like its namesake flower, with a flat top and a domed crown with either 12 or 24 facets. This cut dates back to the 16th century. Find a collection of antique and vintage rose-cut diamond rings on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022An Asscher cut diamond ring is one that has a central stone with a square shape and a stepped cut. Its high crown and deep pavilion give the diamond a brilliant sparkling appearance. Shop a variety of Asscher cut diamond gemstone rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021A brilliant-cut diamond ring is cut in such a way that it has numerous facets. Due to its facets, it reflects the maximum light. Shop for antique and vintage brilliant-cut diamond jewelry today on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023What three diamonds mean on a wedding ring is largely a matter of personal interpretation. However, many people associate the stones with a couple’s past, present and future. To others, the trio of stones may symbolize the Holy Trinity. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of diamond wedding rings.
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Accounting for just 1 percent of all diamonds, these marvels of nature are exceedingly rare and gorgeously complex.
Our Guide to Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco Engagement Rings
Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.