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Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Ruby And Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Eternity Band Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Ruby And Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Eternity Band Ring. This
Category

20th Century French Band Rings

Materials

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

VAN CLEEF ARPELS Cocktail Ring In 18Kt Yellow Gold With Onyx And Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Cocktail ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. This is a gorgeous cocktail ring created in Paris
Category

Vintage 1980s French Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Diamond Ribbon Bow 18k Mutli Tone Gold Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond 18k Multi Tone Gold Ribbon Bow Ring. A stunning ring with
Category

20th Century French Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Rose Gold, White Go...

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Diamond Double Trefle 18k Gold Flower Ring 51
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Double Trefle Flower Ring. With VCA
Category

20th Century French Fashion Rings

Materials

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

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Princess Cut Ruby Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Princess Cut Ruby And Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Ring. A fine ring
Category

20th Century French Cluster Rings

Materials

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

Very Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Buckle Band Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Buckle Band Ring. This beautifully made
Category

20th Century French Band Rings

Materials

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

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Pavé Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Wavey Band Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Pavé Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Wavey Band Ring This beautifully made
Category

20th Century French Band Rings

Materials

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

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Ruby Diamond Ribbon Bow 18k Yellow Gold Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Ruby And Diamond Ribbon 18k Yellow Gold Bow Celeste Ring. A
Category

20th Century French Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

VAN CLEEF ARPELS 1970 Vintage Alhambra Ring In 18Kt Yellow Gold With Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
A vintage Alhambra ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. This a vintage ring from the iconic
Category

Vintage 1970s French Modernist Cluster Rings

Materials

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

VAN CLEEF ARPELS Paris Band Ring In 18Kt Gold With Diamonds And Sapphires
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Band ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. This beautiful band ring, was created in Paris France by
Category

Vintage 1980s French Modernist Band Rings

Materials

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

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Pavé Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Band Dome Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Pavé Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Band Ring. This beautifully made ring
Category

20th Century French Dome Rings

Materials

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

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Diamond Heart Dome 18k Yellow Gold Platinum Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Round Cut Diamond Heart Dome 18k Yellow Gold And Platinum Ring. A
Category

20th Century French Dome Rings

Materials

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

Van Cleef Arpels Miroir des Eaux 18K Gold Diamond Onyx Mother of Pearl Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Southampton, PA
From Van Cleef & Arpels' Miroir des Eaux Collection, here is an extraordinary ring depicting cherry
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Band Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

VAN CLEEF ARPELS Cocktail Ring In 18Kt Yellow Gold With Lapis And VS Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Cocktail ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. This is a beautiful and colorful cocktail ring
Category

Vintage 1980s French Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, White Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Golden Pearl Cocktail Ring 18Kt Gold With 3.46 Ctw Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Cocktail ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. Very rare vintage cocktail ring, created in Paris
Category

Vintage 1970s French Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

Van Cleef Arpels 1973 Geometric Onyx Ring 18kt Gold with 1.45ctw in Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Gem set onyx ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. Beautiful vintage ring band, made in Paris
Category

Vintage 1970s French Modernist Band Rings

Materials

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

VAN CLEEF ARPELS Cocktail Ring In 18Kt Gold With 3.42 Ctw Diamonds And Ruby
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Cocktail ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. This is an outstanding cocktail ring, created in
Category

Vintage 1980s French Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

Van Cleef Arpels Paris Eternity Ring In Platinum With 1.40 Ctw In VVS Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
An eternity ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. Beautiful contemporary eternity ring band
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Band Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum

Van Cleef Arpels South Sea Pearl Ring 1.20 Carat Diamond Platinum Halo S.O
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Torrance, CA
Finely detailed vintage Van Cleef & Arpels South Sea Pearl & diamond ring crafted in platinum
Category

Late 20th Century American Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, South Sea Pearl, Platinum

Van Cleef Arpels 1970 Paris Band Ring In 18Kt Yellow Gold With VVS Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Ring band designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. Beautiful contemporary ring, created in Paris France by
Category

Vintage 1970s French Modernist Band Rings

Materials

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

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Round Diamond Three Stone 18k Yellow Gold Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Natural Diamond Round Cut Three Stone 18k Yellow Gold Ring. A stunning
Category

20th Century French Three-Stone Rings

Materials

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

Van Cleef Arpels One of a Kind Les Jardins Diamond Suite
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Feasterville, PA
Les Jardins tanzanite & diamond suite is a spectacular one-of-a-kind duo by Van Cleef & Arpels
Category

2010s Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Tanzanite, 18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels 1975 Gem Set Coral Band in 18Kt Yellow Gold with VVS Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Gem set coral ring designed by Van Cleef & Arpels. Beautiful vintage ring band, made in Paris
Category

Vintage 1970s French Modernist Band Rings

Materials

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

Van Cleef Arpels Diamond Socrate Ring
Located in London, GB
Here we have a charming diamond cluster ring from the world renowned jewellery designer, Van Cleef
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arples Platinum Floral Cocktail Ring Ruby, Emerald, Sapphires
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
and some Chanel sandals for your day-look. Unsigned, Van Cleef & Arples a true piece of art. Ring
Category

Vintage 1950s French Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, White Gold, Platinum

Van Cleef&Arpels D0.36ct 93P D3.26ct 18K White Gold Cosmos Large Model Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Tokyo, JP
■Item No.321171205 ■Brand: Van Cleef & Arpels ■Retail Price: JPY 6,336,000 (including tax) ■Name
Category

2010s French More Jewelry

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Color Diamond Foliage Motif Bracelet and Ring Set
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
size: 6.5 inches. Width: 24mm - 22mm. Van Cleef Arpels Leaf Design Ring Set With Color And White
Category

Late 20th Century European Artist Link Bracelets

Materials

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

Rare Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Round And Baguette Diamond Fleurette Flower Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Fleurette Flower Ring. 1.35 Carat total. A
Category

20th Century French Anklets

Materials

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

VAN CLEEF ARPELS Folie des Pres Broderie Diamond Gold Earrings Ring Set
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
This impressive Van Cleef & Arpels clip-on earrings and ring Demi-Parure set from the floral Folie
Category

Early 2000s Lever-Back Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Garnet, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold

Vintage Van Cleef Arpels Lapis Lazuli Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Ribbon Bow Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Birmingham, GB
Rare Vintage Van Cleef & Arpels Lapis Lazuli And Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Ribbon Bow Ring. A
Category

20th Century French Anklets

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Flowerlace Ring White Gold, Diamond
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
VCA Flowerlace ring in White gold, set with 87 round diamonds. Diamonds: 87 stones, total weight
Category

2010s French Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in London, GB
Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold Additional information: Brand: Van Cleef
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings

Materials

White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels White Gold Magic Alhambra Diamond Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Cleef & Arples, and this is not the exception, this ring is as simple as beautiful, the diamond clover
Category

2010s French Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels White Gold Magic Alhambra Diamond Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Cleef & Arples, and this is not the exception, this ring is as simple as beautiful, the diamond clover
Category

2010s French Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Diamond White Gold Cocktail Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Sunny Isles Beach, FL
Van Cleef Arpels Diamond Cocktail Ring in 18K White Gold, Total Diamond Weight: 4.50ct, Ring
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Flowerlace Ring White Gold, Diamond
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Jewelry collection brings together two of Van Cleef & Arpels' key sources of inspiration: nature and
Category

2010s French Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Perle Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in London, GB
Van Cleef & Arpels Perle Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold Additional information: Brand: Van Cleef
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings

Materials

White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Perlée Gold Signature Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Cleef & Arpels signature. Metal: 18k White Gold Ring Size: 8.25 Weight: 9.6 grams Hallmark: Van
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Band Rings

Materials

18k Gold, White Gold

18K white gold Van Cleef Arpels Babylon collection Abalone dome ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Surfside, FL
Van Cleef & Arpels Babylon Collection, Abalone mother of pearl dome ring in 18k white gold
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Fashion Rings

Materials

White Gold, 18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Citrine Diamond Gold Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A 1970's 18k Yellow Gold Ring with Citrine and Diamonds, by Van Cleef Arpels. Made in France
Category

Vintage 1970s French Modern Dome Rings

Materials

Citrine, White Diamond, 18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Perlée Signature Ring in 18 Karat White Gold
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
ABOUT THE ITEM: Designer: Van Cleef & Arpels Collection: Perlée Signature Ring Size: 52 (euro) ; 6
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Band Rings

Materials

18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Cosmos between the Finger Ring, White Gold, Diamond
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Van Cleef & Arpes continue surprising us with their beautiful and magical designs, this is one of
Category

2010s French Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Brilliant Cut Diamond Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Stratford upon Avon, GB
Van Cleef & Arpels yellow gold knot style ring featuring a single row of claw set brilliant cut
Category

Mid-20th Century Retro Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Sweet Alhambra Diamond Band Ring in 18K White Gold
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in London, GB
Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Alhambra Diamond Band Ring in 18K White Gold Additional information
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Fashion Rings

Materials

White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Ruby Diamond Gold Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in London, GB
Stylish dress ring set with calibrated natural Burma Rubies and Diamonds. Set in 18ct white gold
Category

Vintage 1970s French Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, White Gold

VAN CLEEF ARPELS Amethyst Mother of Pearl White Gold Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Southampton, NY
Modern simplicity by Van Cleef & Arpels. A simple deep cabochon Amethyst set in a squared off mount
Category

1990s French Band Rings

Materials

18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Large Diamond Fleurette Floral Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Includes Box & Papers Designer: Van Cleef & Arpels Metal: White Gold Metal Purity: 18k Ring
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Vintage Alhambra Ring White Gold, Mother of Pearl, Diamond
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Alhambra ring from Van Cleef & Arpels, made in 18K white gold, white mother-of-pearl, set
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Cosmos Diamond Center White Gold Diamond Ring, Medium Model
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Designer: Van Cleef & Arpels Collection: Cosmos Ring Size: 51 (euro) ; 5.75 (US) Metal: White Gold
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Pearl Diamond Pave Platinum Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Chestnut Hill, MA
Platinum dome pave diamond ring consisting of one white cultured pearl 13.50 millimeters and round
Category

20th Century Unknown Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Platinum

Van Cleef Arpels Sweet Alhambra Ring 18K White Gold and Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
Designer: Van Cleef & Arpels Model: Sweet Alhambra Ring 18K White Gold and Diamonds Exterior Color: White
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cluster Rings

Van Cleef Arpels Sweet Alhambra Ring 18K White Gold and Diamonds
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in New York, NY
: 6 - 52, Width: 2.15 mm Designer: Van Cleef & Arpels Model: Sweet Alhambra Ring 18K White Gold and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cluster Rings

Van Cleef Arpels Trefle Double Flower Diamonds Rubies Ring
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Van Cleef Arpels Trefle Double Flower Ring with cabochon Rubies and .60 carats of Diamonds F
Category

Vintage 1970s More Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Vintage Alhambra Turquoise Ring with Diamond
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Miami, FL
Designer: Van Cleef & Arpels Collection: Vintage Alhambra Metal: 18k White Gold Stone: Turquoise
Category

21st Century and Contemporary More Rings

Materials

Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, White Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Frivole between the Finger Ring, White Gold and Diamond
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This flower-shaped ring is designed with white gold and diamonds, the relief of the leaves makes
Category

2010s French Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

Van Cleef Arpels Perlée Clover Diamond 18k White Gold Large Model Ring 56
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Dubai, Al Qouz 2
This designer ring comes sculpted from 18k white gold and is highlighted by shimmering diamonds
Category

21st Century and Contemporary More Rings

Van Cleef Arpels 18k White Gold Félicité Eternity Diamond Band Box
By Van Cleef Arpels
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Van Cleef & Arpels 18k White Gold Félicité Eternity Diamond Band 1.2mm Sz 50 Box Beautiful 18K
Category

2010s Band Rings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

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Van Cleef White Ring For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the van cleef white ring you’re looking for on 1stDibs, as there is a broad range for sale. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using Gold, 18k Gold and Yellow Gold. In our selection of items, you can find a vintage example as well as a contemporary version. If you’re looking for a van cleef white ring from a specific time period, our collection is diverse and broad-ranging, and you’ll find at least one that dates back to the 19th Century while another version may have been produced as recently as the 21st Century. As it relates to this specific piece, our collection includes designs that are universally popular, but .5 Carat and 1 Carat carat weights, specifically, are sought with frequency. Today, if you’re looking for a round cut version of this piece and are unable to find the perfect match, our selection also includes brilliant cut and baguette cut alternatives. There aren’t many items for men if you’re seeking a van cleef white ring, as most of the options available are for women and unisex.

How Much is a Van Cleef White Ring?

On average, a van cleef white ring at 1stDibs sells for $6,500, while they’re typically $1,100 on the low end and $478,600 for the highest priced versions of this item.

Van Cleef Arpels for sale on 1stDibs

One of the world’s foremost jewelry houses, Van Cleef Arpels is particularly noted for a focus on technical virtuosity, craftsmanship and artistry, evident since its beginning. Rather than create earrings, bracelets, necklaces and other adornments primarily for the aim of displaying of wealth and opulence, Van Cleef Arpels sought to produce jewelry that projected the wearer’s taste and style.

The company was formed a year after the 1895 marriage of Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a gem cutter, to Estelle Arpels, daughter of precious-stones dealer Salomon Arpels. Ten years later, Van Cleef Arpels opened its first boutique on the Place Vendôme in Paris, setting the march on a square now crowded with dealers in bijouterie. (The company still occupies the New York flagship store opened in 1939 at Fifth Avenue and 57th Street.)

Born from a union of expertise in both jewelry making and gem selection, Van Cleef Arpels distinguished itself with both the consistency of the color and clarity of its stones and the creativity of its designs. In doing so, the house would win a roster of dedicated, fashion-conscious clients that included the Duchess of Windsor, Marlene Dietrich, Barbara Hutton, Jacqueline Onassis and Elizabeth Taylor. In 1933, Van Cleef Arpels patented its trademark Mystery Setting — a technique by which gems are fitted into an intricate matrix of slots and “drawers” that keep the setting hidden. Another signal innovation was the Zip necklace, introduced in 1951, which can be worn either around the neck or, with the zipper closed, as a bracelet.

But as much as to the firm’s craftsmanship, clients have been drawn by the insouciance and playfulness of Van Cleef Arpels designers, as well as their attunement to the cultural climate. After the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, the company produced several lavish pieces featuring hieroglyphics and other Egyptian motifs to go along with the geometric Art Deco jewelry of that decade and the next. Following World War II, as symbols of freedom and rebirth, the firm focused on naturalistic forms such as birds, flowers, fruit and flying insects. High society’s 1960s fascination with the Near East and India prompted such pieces as the best-selling Alhambra necklace, popularized by Princess Grace.

Lately, attention among collectors and connoisseurs has centered on Van Cleef Arpels’s quality of workmanship as much as its glamour. The firm was the subject of a 2012 show at the Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, as well as exhibitions at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, California, in 2013 and at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris in 2014.

Find an exquisite collection of Van Cleef Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.

Why Gold Shines in Jewelry Craftsmanship

Gold is the feel-good metal, the serotonin of jewelry. Wear vintage and antique gold necklaces, watches, gold bracelets or gold rings and you feel happy, you feel dressed, you feel, well, yourself. 

Gold, especially yellow gold, with its rich patina and ancient pedigree going back thousands of years, is the steady standby, the well-mannered metal of choice. Any discussion of this lustrous metal comes down to a basic truth: Gold is elementary, my dear. Gold jewelry that couples the mystique of the metal with superb design and craftsmanship achieves the status of an enduring classic. Many luxury houses have given us some of our most treasured and lasting examples of gold jewelry over the years.

Since its founding, in 1837, Tiffany Co. has built its reputation on its company jewelry as well as its coterie of boutique designers, which has included Jean Schlumberger, Donald Claflin, Angela Cummings and Elsa Peretti. There are numerous gold Tiffany classics worth citing. Some are accented with gemstones, but all stand out for their design and the workmanship displayed.

For the woman who prefers a minimalist look, the Tiffany Co. twist bangle (thin, slightly ovoid) is stylishly simple. For Cummings devotees, signature pieces feature hard stone inlay, such as her pairs of gold ear clips inlaid with black jade (a play on the classic Chanel black and tan), or bangles whose design recalls ocean waves, with undulating lines of lapis lazuli and mother-of-pearl. And just about any design by the great Jean Schlumberger is by definition a classic.

Even had he eschewed stones and diamonds, Southern-born David Webb would be hailed for the vast arsenal of heavy gold jewelry he designed. Gold, usually hammered or textured in some manner, defines great David Webb jewelry. The self-taught jeweler made very au courant pieces while drawing inspiration from ancient and out-of-the-way sources — East meets West in the commanding gold necklaces made by Webb in the early 1970s. The same could be said for his endlessly varied gold cuffs.

In Europe, many houses have given us gold jewelry that sets the highest standard for excellence, pieces that were highly sought after when they were made and continue to be so. 

Numerous designs from Cartier are homages to gold. There are the classic Trinity rings, necklaces and bracelets — trifectas of yellow, white and rose gold. As a testament to the power of love, consider the endurance of the Cartier Love bracelet.

Aldo Cipullo, Cartier’s top in-house designer from the late 1960s into the early ’70s, made history in 1969 with the Love bracelet. Cipullo frequently said that the Love bracelet was born of a sleepless night contemplating a love affair gone wrong and his realization that “the only remnants he possessed of the romance were memories.” He distilled the urge to keep a loved one close into a slim 18-karat gold bangle. 

BVLGARI and its coin jewelry, gemme nummarie, hit the jackpot when the line launched in the 1960s. The line has been perennially popular. BVLGARI coin jewelry features ancient Greek and Roman coins embedded in striking gold mounts, usually hung on thick link necklaces of varying lengths. In the 1970s, BVLGARI introduced the Tubogas line, most often made in yellow gold. The Tubogas watches are classics, and then there is the Serpenti, the house's outstanding snake-themed watches and bracelets.

A collection called Monete that incorporated the gold coins is one of several iconic BVLGARI lines that debuted in the 1970s and ’80s, catering to a new generation of empowered women. Just as designers like Halston and Yves Saint Laurent were popularizing fuss-free ready-to-wear fashion for women on the go, BVLGARI offered jewels to be lived in

Since Van Cleef Arpels opened its Place Vendôme doors in 1906, collection after collection of jewelry classics have enchanted the public. As predominantly expressed in a honeycomb of gold, there is the Ludo watch and accessories, circa the 1920s, and the golden Zip necklace, 1951, whose ingenious transformation of the traditional zipper was originally proposed by the Duchess of Windsor. Van Cleef's Alhambra, with its Moroccan motif, was introduced in 1968 and from the start its popularity pivoted on royalty and celebrity status. It remains one of VCA’s most popular and collected styles.

Mention must be made of Buccellati, whose name is synonymous with gold so finely spun that it suggests tapestry. The house’s many gold bracelets, typically embellished with a few or many diamonds, signified taste and distinction and are always in favor on the secondary market. Other important mid-20th-century houses known for their gold-themed jewelry include Hermès and Ilias Lalaounis.

Find a stunning collection of vintage and antique gold jewelry on 1stDibs.

The Legacy of Diamond in Jewelry Design

Antique diamond rings, diamond tiaras and dazzling vintage diamond earrings are on the wish lists of every lover of fine jewelry. And diamonds and diamond jewelry are primarily associated with storybook engagements and red-carpet grand entrances — indeed, this ultra-cherished gemstone has a dramatic history on its hands.

From “A Diamond Is Forever” to “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” pop culture has ingrained in our minds that diamonds are the most desired, the most lasting and the most valuable gemstone. But what makes the diamond so special? Each stone — whether it’s rubies, sapphires or another stone — is unique and important in its own right. April babies might claim diamonds for themselves, but just about everyone wants this kind of sparkle in their lives!

There are several factors that set diamonds apart from other stones, and these points are important to our gem education.

Diamonds are minerals. They are made up of almost entirely of carbon (carbon comprises 99.95 percent; the remainder consists of various trace elements). Diamonds are the hardest gemstones, ranking number 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Even its name, diamond, is rooted in the Greek adamas, or unconquerable. The only object that can scratch a diamond is another diamond. Diamonds are formed deep within the earth at very high temperatures (1,652–2,372 degrees Fahrenheit at depths between 90 and 120 miles beneath the earth’s surface) and are carried up by volcanic activity. Diamonds are quite rare, according to the Gemological Institute of America, and only 30 percent of all the diamonds mined in the world are gem quality.

In the 1950s, the Gemological Institute of America developed the 4Cs grading system to classify diamonds: clarity, color, cut and carat weight. Not all diamonds are created equal (there are diamonds, and then there are diamonds). The value of the diamond depends on the clarity (flawless diamonds are very rare but a diamond's value decreases if there are many blemishes or inclusions), color (the less color the higher the grade), cut (how the diamond’s facets catch the light, certain cuts of diamonds show off the stone better than others) and carat weight (the bigger, the better).

When you start shopping for a diamond engagement ring, always prioritize the cut, which plays the largest role in the diamond's beauty (taking the time to clean your diamond ring at least every six months or so plays a role in maintaining said beauty). And on 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement ringsvintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings

Shop antique and vintage diamond rings, diamond necklaces and other extraordinary diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.  

Finding the Right Rings for You

Antique and vintage rings have long held a special place in the hearts of fine jewelry lovers all over the world.

No matter their origin or specific characteristics, rings are timeless, versatile accessories. They’ve carried deep meaning since at least the Middle Ages, when diamond rings symbolized strength and other kinds of rings were worn to signify romantic feelings or to denote an affiliation with a religious order. Rings have also forever been emblematic of eternity.

Over time, rings have frequently taken the form of serpents, which have long been associated with eternal life, health and renewal. Italian luxury jewelry house Bulgari has become famous for its widely loved Serpenti motif, for example, and its Serpenti ring, like the other accessories in the collection, began as an homage to jewelry of the Roman and Hellenistic eras. The serpent is now a popular motif in fine jewelry. Jewelry devotees have long pined for rings adorned with reptiles, thanks to antique Victorian rings — well, specifically, Queen Victoria’s illustrious engagement ring, which took the form of a gold snake set with rubies, diamonds and an emerald (her birthstone). Designs for Victorian-era engagement rings often featured repoussé work and chasing, in which patterns are hammered into the metal.

Engagement rings, which are reliably intimidating to shop for, are still widely recognized as symbols of love and commitment. On 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement ringsvintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings

The most collectible antique engagement rings and vintage engagement rings are those from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. Named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who in succession ruled England starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign), antique Georgian rings, be they engagement rings or otherwise, are also coveted by collectors. Pearls, along with colored gemstones like garnets, rubies and sapphires, were widely used in Georgian jewelry. The late-1700s paste jewelry was a predecessor to what we now call fashion or costume jewelry

The Art Nouveau movement (1880–1910) brought with it rings inspired by the natural world. Antique Art Nouveau rings might feature depictions of winged insects and fauna as well as women, who were simultaneously eroticized and romanticized, frequently with long flowing hair. Art Deco jewelry, on the other hand, which originated during the 1920s and ’30s, is by and large “white jewelry.” White metals, primarily platinum, were favored over yellow gold in the design of antique Art Deco rings and other accessories as well as geometric motifs, with women drawn to the era’s dazzling cocktail rings in particular.

Whether you’re hunting down a chunky classic for a Prohibition-themed cocktail party or seeking a clean contemporary design to complement your casual ensemble, find an exquisite collection of antique, new and vintage rings on 1stDibs.

Questions About Van Cleef Arpels
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Van Cleef Arpels is so expensive because it is a well-known company that has a fantastic reputation. Van Cleef Arpels are universally renowned for high quality jewelry with a focus on detail. High-profile fans of the French jewelry house over the years have included the Duchess of Windsor, Marlene Dietrich, Elizabeth Taylor and many more. Find an extraordinary range of Van Cleef Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.