Vintage and Antique Rings
Rings have delighted, captivated, and thrilled us for millennia. Vintage and antique rings can be given to express friendship, to make a promise of marriage, or to celebrate memorable occasions. Or you can buy an antique ring for yourself, just because.
Historic Antique Ring Trends
A princess cut diamond engagement ring paired with a diamond-encrusted eternity band is arguably the most popular bridal set in modern history. But antique ring sets didn't start in the 20th Century--not by a long shot.
Some trends in antique rings have romantic beginnings, while other antique rings were born from less noble intentions. Some are still being made today. Learn More »
Classic Vintage Aquamarine Ring
This bold and classic Retro vintage aquamarine ring demands to be noticed! The platinum band of this vintage cocktail ring rises to a playful mounting of openwork hearts, rhomboids and crowns. A 14.27-carat emerald cut aquamarine is set inside this display of metallic elements. A pair of straight cut baguette diamonds flanks the aquamarine for a total diamond weight of 0.30 carats. Circa 1950 or later.
Item
RG-2785
$13295.00 Sale! $5318.00
Art Deco Antique Jadeite Ring
Diamond scallops hug tight this Art Deco cocktail ring's enchanting Cabachon jadeite. Like grass after a springtime shower, the oval gemstone bursts with nature's greenest intensity. Diamond scallops embrace the jadeite at the shoulders of the platinum band, cradling it in their cockled edges. Details: Antique, Art Deco. Circa 1920. Platinum. Single cut diamonds; 0.12 carats. Jadeite; 13.21 carats.
Item
RG-1456
$8859.00 Sale! $3543.60
Edwardian Antique Ring with Sapphires
The pretty band of this Edwardian antique ring is pierced with a floral and bow motif. Two matching white sapphires burst from the center of the flowery ribbon backsplash in this Edwardian antique ring. These focal point gemstones are hexagonal set side by side. A flame fusion blue sapphire is wedged between the two white sapphires, dividing this antique ring into two distinct yet equally scene-stealing segments. Details: Antique, Edwardian. Circa 1920. 18k white gold. Round cut white and rectangular cut blue sapphires; 1.55 carats.
Item
RG-2308
$1519.00 Sale! $607.60
Almandine Garnet Antique Ring with Pierced and Floral Design
This antique ring's almandine garnet radiates with the intensity of a blood moon. Flirtatious gold bows play peek-a-boo at the sides. Fiery hot, the gemstone is encircled by a cool pool of pearl accents. Flowers and chevrons are carved on the pierced band. Details: Antique. Circa 1940. 14k white gold. Garnet; 2.06 carats. Natural and cultured pearls.
Item
RG-3716
$1849.00 Sale! $739.60
Black Onyx and Diamond Vintage Ring
This vintage ring's onyx provides a dramatic backdrop for its delicate diamond centerpiece. The table cut cabochon black onyx bathes the finger from base to knuckle in ebony. Nestled at its center is a round diamond. The white gold setting is pierced around the girdle and at the shoulders. Engraving extends down the side of this vintage ring's band. Details: Vintage. Circa 1930 or later. 14k white gold. Single cut diamond; 0.025 carats. Black onyx.
Item
RG-3672
SALE PENDING
Carnelian Scarab Antique Ring
This antique ring's scarab-carved gemstone is a testament to the sacred ancient Egyptian beetle. The combination of yellow gold and reddish orange adds a warm and inviting glow to the finger. The band is carved with swirls that spotlight the oval cabachon carnelian gemstone at the center. Additional feathery engraving extends down the shoulders of the band. Details: Antique. Circa 1930. 14k yellow gold. Carnelian; 6.99 carats.
Item
RG-3717
$1499.00 Sale! $599.60
Classic Platinum Citrine Vintage Ring
Classic vintage rings like this one make an elegant right hand ring or a stunning engagement ring. The platinum band of this vintage ring is hand-wrought. The raised, open-weave mounting encases twelve round single cut diamonds. A showstopper cushion faceted mixed cut citrine serves as the piece de resistance. The total gemstone weight of this vintage ring is 17.58 carats. From the Topazery Earth Collection. Circa 2006.
Item
RG-1812
$6999.00 Sale! $2799.60
Three Stone Antique Filigree Ring
Delicate carvings and delightful shimmer soften up angular edges in this three stone antique filigree ring. The platinum setting of this Edwardian antique filigree ring is accented with sunburst, chevron and feathery elements. The squared-off top of this antique engagement ring cradles a trio of old European cut diamonds. The three stones have a combined diamond weight of 0.73 carats. Circa 1920.
Item
RG-3008
$3889.00 Sale! $1555.60
Art Deco Antique Filigree Ring
An Art Deco antique filigree ring demands attention with its hand wrought mounting and elongated filigree design. The North-South setting of this antique cocktail ring gives it distinctive flair. A trio of old style round brilliant cut diamonds cascades down the center of this platinum intrigue. An additional twelve old style round full cut diamonds are sprinkled throughout. The combined weight of all the diamonds, which range in color from G to H and clarity from VS1 to SI2 is 0.85 carats. Circa 1930 or later.
Item
RG-3325
$2359.00 Sale! $943.60
Art Deco Antique Ring
Ornate and alluring, this this Art Deco antique ring with old European cut diamonds is geometrically intruquing. The octagonal top setting of this antique cocktail ring is highlighted around its geometric rim with a collection of eight rectangular faceted mixed cut and two triangular faceted mixed cut blue sapphires. The total gemstone weight of all the sapphires is 0.28 carats. A pair of old European cut diamonds is tucked in the center of the octagon and total 0.81 carats. A hand-engraved 18k white gold band with a leaf motif provides the setting for this Art Deco ring. Circa 1925 to 1930.
Item
RG-3037
$2350.00 Sale! $940.00
Victorian Antique Ruby Ring from France
Bearing a French hallmark, the band of this Victorian ruby dinner ring is made of 18k yellow gold. A silver top displays a glittering display of red and white in this Victorian antique ring. An oval faceted mixed cut ruby is set at the center of this Victorian dinner ring. The gemstone weight of the centerpiece ruby is 1.05 carats. A collection of rose cut diamonds surrounds the ruby, reflecting its beauty. The diamonds total 0.93 carats. French hallmark. Circa 1870.
Item
RG-3038
$2559.00 Sale! $1023.60
Art Deco Antique Filigree Ring with Sapphires
The 18k white gold setting of this Art Deco antique filigree ring is fashioned in a North-South design and makes a lovely dinner ring. Sapphires at the shoulders at a touch of color. The filigree is this antique ring is accentuated with a pair of triangular faceted mixed cut blue sapphires. These sapphires weigh 0.10 carats . A trio of old style round brilliant cut diamonds is set down the center of this antique dinner ring. Totaling 0.49 carats, they range in color from E to G and in clarity from VVS2 to VS1. Circa 1925.
Item
RG-3007
$1850.00 Sale! $740.00
Coral and Diamond Antique Cocktail Ring
Like a creamy-hued egg, a magnificent coral rests in a resplendent nest of diamond and gold. Floating above the finger, it is buoyed beneath by an engraved framework of 14k gold. From above, bright single cut diamonds encircle this antique cocktail ring like a dazzling wreath. Both glamorous and casual, subtle and shining, this antique ring elegantly balances gentle contradictions in a singular accessory. Details: Antique, circa 1940. 14k yellow gold. Hand engraved gallery. Round single cut diamonds; 0.84 ct. Oval, cabochon cut natural coral; 14.19 ct. scant.
Item
RG-2714
$6099.00 Sale! $2439.60
Victorian Coral Antique Ring
Antique Victorian coral rings like this late 19th century dinner ring have a Roman princess appeal. The coral gemstone that highlights this Victorian ring is carved with a toga-clad goddess. The 14k yellow gold band is done in a fancy scrolled pattern that showcases the coral cameo. Circa late 1800s.
Item
RG-1391
$1195.00 Sale! $478.00
Asscher Cut Diamond Antique Engagement Ring
The Art Deco influence is evident in this engagement ring. The elegantly simple geometric design showcases the solitaire Asscher diamond to perfection. A classic platinum mounting creates the perfect setting for a 2.01 carat, H color, SI1 clarity, Asscher cut diamond in this antique engagement ring. Asscher cut diamonds are known for their captivating optics and spell-binding beauty. The mesmerizing geometry of the cut draws the eye inward to the depths of the stone. Open shoulders, milgrain trim, and beautiful detailing on the underbezel and shoulders add the finishing touches to antique diamond engagement rings like this one. Circa 1925 or later.
Item
RG-1081
SOLD
Vintage Amethyst Cocktail Ring
The purple hues of royalty are beautifully presented in this vintage amethyst cocktail ring's centerpiece gemstone. The purple hues of royalty are beautifully presented in this vintage amethyst cocktail ring's centerpiece gemstone. The oval faceted mixed cut amethyst weighs 13.74 carats. A collection of silver-white semi Baroque pearls surround the amethyst in a soft halo. The 14k yellow gold band of this antique dinner ring is topped with white gold gallery wire bezels. Circa 1955 or later.
Item
RG-2505
$2775.00 Sale! $1110.00
Vintage Retro Ring in Rose Gold with Rubies
The iridescent curved appeal of a beachside conch shell comes to mind with this Retro Modern ruby ring in rose gold. The 14k rose gold band of this Retro Modern ring provides a romantic backdrop for the collection of eleven rubies that accent it. Totaling 1.55 carats, the rubies are inner swirled with a crescent of eight round single cut and two round full cut diamonds. Inside the crescent lies an old style round brilliant cut diamond. The total diamond weight of all eleven diamonds that accent this vintage jewelry piece is 0.60 carats. Circa 1940.
Item
RG-2281
$2775.00 Sale! $1110.00
Old European Cut Diamond Antique Filigree Ring
Secure the key to her heart for eternity with this old European cut diamond antique filigree ring. The platinum band of this antique filigree ring is intricately designed in a series of three keyhole cutouts that taper down the shoulders. The squared-off top setting of this antique wedding ring holds three old European cut diamonds that are horizontally set across the finger and total 0.38 carats. May be worn as an antique wedding ring or engagement ring. Circa 1920.
Item
RG-2219
$1895.00 Sale! $758.00
Continued from the top . . .
Poesy Rings
These beautiful antique rings date back to the 1300s. They were quite popular in France through the 17th century. Poesy rings (also called posie rings) were metal rings with inscriptions on the inside of the band. Typically, the inscription was a quote from romantic literature, many of which were written in French.
Modern poesy rings may have more personal inscriptions, diamonds or gemstones on the band, and some are worn on necklace chains.
Gimmel Rings
Made from two or three bands, gimmel rings (also called gimmal rings) fit together like a puzzle to form one ring. They were popular in Europe during the 1500s and 1600s. The tradition was to give one band to your beloved as an engagement ring, then add the second piece during the wedding ceremony.
One especially lovely type of gimmel, called a fede ring, appears to be two hands clasped together. When separated, a third band is revealed with a heart on it. When all the rings are fit together, the two hands wrap around the hidden heart. Some even had hidden inscriptions inside the bands.
Rush Rings
Made from straw or plant stems (rushes), these were used as engagement rings--sort of. The rings were woven from readily available materials and given to women instead of a real wedding band.
Legend has it that rush rings were so often used to trick naive young women into giving up their virtue, they were essentially outlawed in Salisbury, England, in 1217.
Victorian Hair Rings
Also called mourning rings, these rings were actually made from human hair. During the 19th century, it was common to wear mourning jewelry after a loved one passed.
The style of the pieces changed with other popular fashion at the time. One common theme was to include a lock of the deceased's hair in the design of the ring. It could be braided, encased in glass, or even mixed into paint.
Though the trend of mourning rings faded some time ago, some people now use human hair in custom wedding rings. Couples can send locks to a jewelry maker to have their own hair weaved into custom wedding bands, or purchase authentic antique hair rings.
Shop our collection of antique rings to find tiny, wearable pieces of history.
The Cocktail Antique Ring
Maybe you've never really thought about how the cocktail ring got its name. It's just a bold piece of jewelry women wear with cocktail dresses, right? Well, yes. But it's much more than that, and its history is an interesting one.
Cocktail rings gained popularity during the 1920s, and are associated with the Art Deco movement. It was the era of Prohibition, and speakeasies opened across the United States to allow people to purchase alcohol illegally. Some of these establishments were simply stores and distributors, but more often, they were nightclubs that served illicit cocktails.
Which brings us to the cocktail ring. People who frequented speakeasies to buy alcohol and socialize were flouting the law. Many women chose to take that rebellion one step further in their choice of jewelry.
Cocktail rings are, by definition, ostentatious. Costume and faux varieties sometimes even border on garish. They usually consist of one large, colorful center stone, sometimes surrounded by several smaller stones such as diamonds. They're meant to catch the light, and the eye. Women wore these rings while drinking to be noticed, and to draw even more attention to the hands that held their cocktail glasses, as if to say, "Look at me! Look what I'm doing!"
Prohibition lasted only a little more than a decade, but cocktail rings continue to adorn the fingers of stylish, confident women. Our collection of antique rings includes more than a few tasteful and beautiful examples of these mini-rebellions. Slip one on, and you can't help but feel a little feisty!
Filigree in Antique Rings
Filigree is the delicate forming of fine gold, silver, or platinum wire into intricate ornamentation. Close examination of antique filigree will reveal delicate threads and minute beads in the metal work. The filigreeing process involves the soldering of curled, twisted, and plaited filaments and miniature beads together, and on top of solid matching metal to form intricate designs. The word has French and Italian origins, as well as the Latin root filum, which means "thread" or "wire."
Greek craftsmen first introduced filigree in the fifth century B.C.E. The jewelry produced during that time often featured filigree representations of the animals the Greeks thought had mystical powers, such as rams, lions, and bulls. Filigree gained popularity during the Victorian era, and was used to create intricate floral designs. Later, during the Art Nouveau period, filigree was used to display the influence of nature in jewelry, creating leaf, vine, and insect motifs. During the Edwardian era, lacy designs were all the rage, and were accomplished with filigree techniques in rings and other types of jewelry.
Protecting Antique and Vintage Rings
When you purchase brand new, fine jewelry, you may barely think twice before adding some sort of coverage plan to your purchase. However, when you add an antique ring to your collection, you may not realize you have the option of protecting it in the same way. How can you cover your antique ring in the event of loss, theft, or damage?Protect Your Investment
In addition to specific jewelry insurance policies, jewelry can sometimes be covered under homeowners or renters insurance. However, blanket coverage like that may not be enough to fully replace or repair your precious antique ring. Take some time to find out what coverage you already have, and determine whether it's enough.
Jewelry Insurance
Before you can have your antique or vintage ring insured, you must gather some information.
- Proof of value: First, you need evidence of the value of your antique ring. This can include a receipt, an appraisal and a photo.
- How it works: Jewelry insurance is similar to other types of insurance. Once you've provided proof of the vintage ring's value, the insurance company will provide you with a quote. Before you purchase the insurance, make sure you understand the policy, including what is covered and what, if any, cost will be your responsibility if you have to file a claim.
- What it covers: Coverage depends on the insurance company and policy you select. Look for a policy that covers loss or theft at a minimum. You may also want to consider a policy that covers partial loss and repairs. For example, if a stone falls out of your antique ring, you could file a claim to have the stone replaced and the setting repaired rather than having to replace the ring entirely.
Proper Care
Insurance is most helpful to you after something bad happens. You can also take a few important steps in preventing problems before they happen. Proper cleaning and storage of your antique rings will go a long way to keeping them intact.
Regular, gentle cleaning helps you notice loose stones or weak settings before you drop a diamond on the beach. Storing antiques in soft cloth, separated from each other limits wear and tear caused by rubbing. Certain gemstones may require special care, as well.
Invest in a stunner from our hand-picked collection of vintage and antique rings, and then make sure you protect your investment.
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