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Manpriya B 38.24ct Citrine Tumble Amethyst Diamond Statement Cocktail Ring
By Manpriya B
Located in London, GB
ordered in other precious stones. Deep golden citrine ‘tumbled’ set amongst brilliant reverse set
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Amethyst, Citrine, Black Diamond, Silver, Gold, 18k Gold

Manpriya B 71.89ct Citrine Tumble, Amethyst, Diamond Clip-On Statement Earrings
By Manpriya B
Located in London, GB
stones. Deep golden ‘tumbled’ citrine set amongst brilliant reverse set amethysts and diamonds in
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Amethyst, Citrine, Diamond, Silver, Gold, 18k Gold

Manpriya B 63.50ct Rose Quartz Tumble Iolite Diamond Clip-On Earrings
By Manpriya B
Located in London, GB
available. Translucent delicate pink ‘tumbled’ rose-quartz set amongst brilliant reverse set iolites and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Iolite, Quartz, Silver, Gold, 18k Gold

Chalcedony and Diamond "Golden Hour" Earrings
By Nicholas Varney
Located in Greenwich, CT
"Golden Hour" earrings, featuring a large cabochon chalcedony suspending three reverse pavé-set
Category

21st Century and Contemporary More Earrings

Materials

Chalcedony, Yellow Gold

Black Diamond and White Topaz Earrings
Located in New York, NY
Handcrafted in 18kt white gold, these earrings are set with rose cut black diamonds and reverse set
Manpriya B Citrine Tumble, Amethyst and Diamond Glam Rocks Earrings and Ring
By Manpriya B
Located in London, GB
‘tumbled’ citrine set amongst brilliant reverse set amethysts and diamonds in blackened silver. Hand
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Amethyst, Citrine, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Silver, Rhodium

Manpriya B Rose Quartz Tumble, Iolite and Diamond Glam Rocks Earrings and Ring
By Manpriya B
Located in London, GB
set amongst brilliant reverse set iolites and diamonds in blackened silver. Hand picked for the
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Iolite, Quartz, Gold, 18k Gold, Silver

Mother of Pearl and Black Diamond Necklace
Located in New York, NY
Mother of Pearl bead necklace with reverse set black diamond spacers and an 18kt gold invisible
Category

American Beaded Necklaces

Spessartine Garnet Earrings in Carbon Fiber
Located in Paris, IDF
Spessartine Garnet Earrings Spessartine Garnets: 9.43 carats total weight Reverse Set Round
Category

2010s Italian Contemporary Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Peridot, Garnet, Mandarin Garnet, 18k Gold

Jumbo Graduated Hourglass Necklace
Located in Breezy Point, NY
Our jumbo-sized, 14k Gold Graduated Hourglass features six reverse, hand-set diamonds. The chain is
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Chain Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold

Reverse Set Diamond Hoop Earrings
Located in New York, NY
Reverse Set Diamond Hoop Earrings with 17.84 ct of diamonds
Category

2010s American Modern Hoop Earrings

Materials

Yellow Diamond

Yellow Gold Black Oxidized Reverse Set 1 1/4 Carat Diamond Trio Stud Earrings
Located in New York, NY
Oxidized Reverse Set Diamond Trio Stud Earrings. Featuring a total diamond weight of 1 1/4 cttw and 6
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

White Diamond, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Michael Kneebone 18 Karat Gold Diamond "Inca" Frog Earrings
By Michael Kneebone
Located in Austin, TX
. These frogs come alive with reverse set diamond eyes. The earrings have posts with omega clip backs for
Category

2010s American Contemporary Drop Earrings

Materials

White Diamond, 18k Gold

Cartier ladies Yellow Gold Diamond Baignoire quartz Wristwatch
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
signature at 10 o'clock, with pave set diamond bezel and reverse set diamond crown, joined by a polished
Category

1990s Swiss Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Michael Kneebone Lapis Emerald Diamond Stringray Inca Frog Cuff Bracelet
By Michael Kneebone
Located in Austin, TX
frogs have reverse set diamond eyes and a black rhodium stripe running down their backs. Set atop the
Category

2010s American Contemporary Cuff Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold, Vermeil, Rhodium

David Yurman Spearpoint Black Diamond Pendant Amulet 18k White Gold with Box
By David Yurman
Located in Northbrook, IL
design. The pendant is adorned with round-cut black reverse-set diamonds, totaling 1.21 carats, adding a
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Handmade 37.58 Carat Natural Emerald Slices Champagne Diamond Pave Earrings
By H H Jewels
Located in Miami, FL
reverse-set diamonds create a cosmic dance of warm light, ensuring all eyes are drawn to you with curious
Category

2010s American Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Ruchi New York Reverse Set Icy Grey Diamond Tennis Bracelet
By Ruchi New York
Located in New York, NY
Nebula Collection A classic style with a an edgy twist. Reverse set icy grey full cut Diamond
Category

2010s Hong Kong Contemporary Tennis Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

A Pair of Platinum White Gold Diamond Enamel Cufflinks Set with a Watch
Located in New York, NY
-set ends, surrounded by black enamel border, the reverse diamond-set ends, center rectangular-cut
Category

Vintage 1910s Swiss Cufflinks

Materials

Diamond, Platinum, White Gold

Eternity Diamond Flower Earrings
By Coomi
Located in Secaucus, NJ
Eternity Paved Diamond 1.23CT flower earrings with reverse set brilliant diamonds. 18kt White Gold.
Category

2010s Thai Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Eternity Pave Diamond Ring
By Coomi
Located in Secaucus, NJ
Eternity Pave Diamond 2.90CTS with reverse set brilliant diamonds. 18kt white gold.
Category

2010s Thai Artisan Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Nicholas Varney Pink Tourmaline and Diamond Earrings
By Nicholas Varney
Located in Carmel, CA
is very hard to capture in photos!) Diamonds: Setting consists of reverse-set pave of Cognac
Category

2010s Dangle Earrings

Materials

White Diamond, Brown Diamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold

Adler Ruby and Diamond Dress Ring
By Adler
Located in Mayfair, London, London
diamonds totalling 0.80ct. A further four reverse set round brilliant cut diamonds are set within in a
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Victorian Opal and Diamond Snake Pendant
Located in London, GB
matching engraving work being exhibited on the reverse side. A diamond set bail atop completes the piece
Category

Antique 19th Century Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Silver

Fancy Pink To Green Diamond Gradient Mosaic Pavé Ring
By Joke Quick
Located in Antwerp, BE
pear-shape reverse set natural diamond: 0.06 ct. 1 X Fancy green rose-cut natural diamond: 0.14 ct. 1 X
Category

2010s Belgian Contemporary Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Blue Diamond, Pink Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Ruchi New York Emerald and Diamond Slice Cuff Bracelet
By Ruchi New York
Located in New York, NY
Jardin Collection Reverse set pear shape Emeralds with Diamond slices and white rose cut Diamond
Category

2010s Hong Kong Contemporary Cuff Bracelets

Materials

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

1980s 1.50 Carat Diamond Yellow Gold Cufflinks
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
hallmarked to the reverse of the diamond set links with the 18k gold fineness mark 750. These vintage
Category

Vintage 1980s Unknown Cufflinks

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage Mauboussin 1.20 Carats Diamond Pearl 18 Karat Gold Earrings
By Mauboussin
Located in Philadelphia, PA
in body color with excellent luster Rotunda features baguette diamonds and terminates with reverse
Category

1990s Italian Contemporary Clip-on Earrings

Materials

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

Van Cleef Arpels Diamond Sapphire Ruby Emerald Gold Case
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
patriotic motifs, the reverse set with diamond and multi-gem charms of various musicians, to the sides set
Category

Mid-20th Century French Boxes and Cases

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, 18k Gold

Certified David Morris Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Engagement Ring 1.40 Carat
By David Morris
Located in Mayfair, London, London
either side of the central diamond totalling approximately 0.81ct. There are 4 reverse set round
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique Pearl and Diamond Yellow Gold Drop Earrings, Circa 1900
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
. The earrings secure to the reverse of the uppermost bezel set diamond with screw back fastenings, for
Category

Antique Early 1900s Unknown Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum

1990 s Mauboussin 0.50 Carat Diamond Pearl 18 Karat Gold Necklace
By Mauboussin
Located in Philadelphia, PA
rotunda set with baguettes and terminating with reverse bezel set diamonds Weighing approximately 0.50
Category

1990s French Contemporary Drop Necklaces

Materials

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

Michael Kneebone South Seas Pearl Tahitian Pearl Diamond Spinel Stacking Rings
By Michael Kneebone
Located in Austin, TX
) who's color compliments the gray Tahitian pearl. The color scheme is reversed with a white diamond set
Category

2010s American Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Black Pearl, South Sea Pearl, Spinel, 18k Gold

1930s 9.52 Carat Citrine and 4.55 Carat Diamond Yellow Gold Drop Earrings
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
thirteen pavé set diamonds, in a combination of Dutch and eight-cuts. The earrings secure to the reverse
Category

Vintage 1930s Unknown Drop Earrings

Materials

Citrine, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Sapphire and Diamond Flower Stud Earrings, in 18 Karat White and Yellow Gold
Located in London, GB
with a centrally set diamond. The reverse of these earrings is detailed wonderfully with yellow gold
Category

2010s British Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

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

Antique 1920s Pearl and 0.88 Carat Diamond, 14 Karat White Gold Drop Earrings
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
ornamented with six collet set Old European cut diamonds. The earrings secure to the reverse of the
Category

Vintage 1920s Unknown Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Pearl, 2.95 Carat Emerald Ruby, 3.15 Carat Diamond and 9k Yellow Gold Collarette
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
the reverse with a feature bezel set diamond ornamented push fit clasp in addition to a fine link
Category

Antique 1880s Unknown Victorian More Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Pearl, Ruby, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold

An 1860 French 18 Carat Gold and Coral Suite
Located in Amsterdam, NL
set with old cut diamonds. The reversed crescent sometimes symbolizes Diana, goddess of the hunt, or
Category

Antique 1860s French Brooches

Materials

Coral, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold

Reverse Set Diamond Heart Pendant
By GEMME
Located in New York, NY
Magnificent and large heart shape pendant. Reverse set Round Diamonds weighing approximately 9.50
Category

2010s Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

One of a Kind Iolite and Diamond Sea Urchin Cufflinks by Michael Kanners
By Michael Kanners
Located in Bal Harbour, FL
One of a kind, expertly carved, iolite and reverse set diamond cufflinks. The deep blue color of
Category

2010s German Contemporary Cufflinks

Materials

White Diamond, Iolite, Diamond, 18k Gold

White Black Diamond Australian Pearl 18Kt Gold Chick Pin Brooch
By Elisa Pozza by PETRONILLA
Located in Bussolengo, Verona
yellow gold wing is studded with reverse-set white diamonds totaling 0.17 ct. All the details are in
Category

2010s Italian Artisan Brooches

Materials

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

Michael Kneebone Sapphire Diamond African Porcupine Quill Brooch
By Michael Kneebone
Located in Austin, TX
with reverse set white diamonds. Adding to the composition is an antique cut white sapphire. The
Category

2010s American Contemporary Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold

Faceted 4.0 Carat Carnelian Slice Pear-Shaped Diamond Halo Ring in Rose Gold
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA
34 pavé-set diamonds.   Four reverse-graduated diamonds decorate the band on either side of the
Category

2010s American Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Carnelian, Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, Gold

Marco Bicego Diamond Topaz Multi-Gem 18 Karat Gold Marrakech Onde Necklace
By Marco Bicego
Located in Philadelphia, PA
- prong set Reverse of diamond and multi-gem stations feature linear engraving Terminates with hinged
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Amethyst, Diamond, Topaz, Tourmaline, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow...

Antique French Lapis Lazuli and 1.02 Carat Diamond Rose Gold Locket or Pendant
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
further six pavé set Dutch cut diamonds. The reverse of the pendant is fitted with a push fit glass
Category

Antique 1880s French Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Gold, 18k Gold, 9k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold

Sugarloaf Sapphire Ring
Located in New York, NY
reverse-set Round and Pear Shape Diamonds weighing 4.03 Carats. Set in Platinum. Will be made to a ring
Category

2010s Cocktail Rings

Materials

Sapphire, Platinum

Cartier Lady s Diamond Pave Crash White Gold Wristwatch
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
reverse set diamond crown, for an approximately 5.3 carats in total, mounted in white gold, with white
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

Vasari Diamond Gold Rose Ring
Located in New York, NY
reverse set diamonds and white gold stamen. The entire surface of the sides and back of the ring consist
Category

Vintage 1980s Spanish Fashion Rings

Materials

White Diamond, 18k Gold

Chanel by Paul Iribe Amethyst Emerald Diamond Platinum Spray Brooch
By Chanel
Located in Greenwich, CT
capped by reverse-set diamonds, as well as tapering rectangular-sections accented by pavé-set round
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Brooches

Materials

Amethyst, Diamond, Emerald, White Diamond, Platinum

18 Karat Yellow Gold Rhodium Plated, Diamond and Pearl Studded Ear Clips
By Manisha Saurabh Mody
Located in MUMBAI, IN
A reverse set diamond ball, natural cognac diamond beads & natural fresh water pearls compliment
Category

2010s Indian Modern Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Brown Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Rhodium

Paolo Costagli Moss Agate Amethyst Bead Diamond Gold Necklace
By Paolo Costagli
Located in Vail, CO
Faceted moss agate bead necklace, accented by rondelle-shaped beads set with reverse-set champagne
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Agate, Amethyst, Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

18 Karat White Gold and Diamond Earrings
By Manisha Saurabh Mody
Located in MUMBAI, IN
Crafted in 18 karat white gold, the reverse set brilliant cut diamonds & a matching plain gold back
Category

2010s Indian Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Golden South Sea Pearls Diamond 22-21k Gold Contemporary Drop Dangle Earrings
By AB Jewelry NYC
Located in New York, NY
engraved golden hemisphere and is accented by reverse set brown diamond. The pearl's perfect bold round
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Brown Diamond, Pearl, Natural Pearl, Oriental Pearl, Cultured P...

Cartier Gold Panther Tassel Sautoir
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
with black enamel spots, pear-shaped emerald eyes, a black onyx nose, and a reverse-set black onyx and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French More Necklaces

Manpriya B Fancy Coloured Reverse Set Diamond Long Gold Dangle Drop Earrings
By Manpriya B
Located in London, GB
delicate drop of reverse set coloured diamonds are an array of golds, greys and amber - universally
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Modern Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Brown Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Y...

Sarah Appleton 18 Karat Reverse Set Brown Diamond Cutlet Stud Earrings
Located in Mansfield, OH
Sarah Appleton 18 karat reverse set brown diamond cutlet stud earrings. This pair of contemporary
Category

2010s French Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

Brown Diamond, 18k Gold

Custom Golden South Sea Pearls Diamond 22-21k Gold Drop Dangle Earrings
By AB Jewelry NYC
Located in New York, NY
reflected in an engraved golden hemisphere and is accented by reverse set brown diamond. The pearl's perfect
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Brown Diamond, Pearl, Cultured Pearl, Natural Pearl, Oriental P...

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Reverse Set Diamond For Sale on 1stDibs

On 1stDibs, you can find the most appropriate reverse set diamond for your needs in our varied inventory. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using gold, yellow gold and white gold. Find an antique version now, or shop for 1994 vintage or 338 modern creation for a more contemporary example of these cherished accessories. Making the right choice when shopping for a reverse set diamond may mean carefully reviewing examples of this item dating from different eras — you can find an early iteration of this piece from the 18th Century and a newer version made as recently as the 21st Century, both of which have proven very popular over the years. There have been many well-made iterations of the classic reverse set diamond over the years, but those made by ANGARA INC., Atelier Molinari and Cartier are often thought to be among the most beautiful. A reverse set diamond can be a stylish choice for most occasions, but diamond rings, from our inventory of 1221, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look, day or night. See these pages for a round cut iteration of this accessory, while there are also old european cut cut and cabochon cut versions available here, too. Most of our reverse set diamond for sale are for women, but there are 918 pieces available to browse for men.

How Much is a Reverse Set Diamond?

Prices for a reverse set diamond can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $195 and can go as high as $7,800,000, while this accessory, on average, fetches $4,290.

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 Reverse Set Diamond
  • 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.