Discover the Top 10 Vintage Ruby Rings for a Timeless Look

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS --

Rubies are captivating gemstones known for their rich, red hues and deep vibrancy. Popular in jewelry for centuries, they offer a wide range of options for vintage ruby rings, from antique ruby engagement rings to unique ruby cocktail rings and other signature pieces. Let's explore the top 10 vintage ruby ring designs that stand out today.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About Rubies
• History and Symbolism
• Vintage Ruby Rings: Descriptions and Symbolism
• Top 10 Vintage Ruby Ring Designs
• Cluster 
  
• Heart 
  
• Toi et Moi
• Art Deco 
  
• Retro
• Bands
• Stacking Bands
• Solitaire
• Halo 
  
• Three Stone 
  
• Choosing Your Perfect Vintage Ruby Ring

About Rubies

A ruby is a prized gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red color and remarkable durability. This gemstone is a type of corundum, with its red hue resulting from traces of chromium in its crystal structure. Rubies can range in color from rich red to shades with slight purple or orange tones. The most sought-after shade is often called "pigeon’s blood" red, a vivid, pure red with a subtle blue undertone. Rubies symbolize passion, love, energy, and courage and are believed in some cultures to offer protective and healing benefits.

History and Symbolism

Vintage ruby jewelry is beloved for its timeless appeal and rich history. Throughout the ages, rubies have graced a wide range of antique ring designs, from bold ruby solitaire rings to delicate ruby cluster rings. These gemstones are versatile, complementing different shapes, settings, and metal types, making them perfect for any vintage ring era. Not only are vintage ruby rings beautiful and rich in history, but they also offer an eco-friendly alternative by reducing the demand for new gemstone mining.

The symbolism of rubies adds to their allure, making them highly sought after in vintage jewelry. Known for symbolizing passion, love, and romance, rubies also represent prosperity, good luck, strength, and royalty. As the official July birthstone and a traditional gem for the fifteenth, fortieth, and eightieth wedding anniversaries, rubies offer deep meaning and significance. This deep meaning makes vintage ruby pieces ideal for many special occasions.

Top 10 Vintage Ruby Ring Designs

Vintage ruby rings come in a wide variety of styles, from timeless vintage engagement rings to exquisite antique cocktail rings. Whether you're drawn to bold designs or subtle elegance, there's a vintage ruby ring to match every style preference. Let’s dive into the best vintage ruby ring styles available today.

Cluster

Cluster rings are flower-like gemstone arrangements, often with a stunning ruby at the center, encircled by diamonds, pearls, or other gemstones to enhance its appearance.

Heart

Rubies are a natural choice to be cut into heart shapes, showcasing the passion and romance these gemstones symbolize. Heart-shaped rubies may be used as
nostalgic solitaires or even set as accents in more elaborate antique ring designs.

Toi et Moi

The romance and femininity of the Victorian era is beautifully showcased in twin rings, or "toi et moi" designs, where two rubies or gemstones are set together. These rings often feature intricate floral designs, delicate filigree , and exquisite craftsmanship, symbolizing the connection between two stones while maintaining the era's elegant charm.

Art Deco

The Art Deco period was one of bold colors and sharp geometry, and were great to add that pop to different ring designs. Multiple rubies were often incorporated to preserve the symmetry characteristic of the design era.

Retro

Retro designs are wistful and lovely, and rubies make stunning accents to bows, ribbons, and floral motifs. Smaller rubies are often used in these elaborate rings so as not to take away from the full effect.

Bands

A vintage wedding band may be set with rubies to further symbolize the romance of the ring. This can coordinate beautifully to a ruby engagement ring or the wedding band may be worn on its own for unmatched flair.

Stacking Bands

Small rubies can easily be set in thin bands to be stacked together with other bands for the ultimate in a customizable ring. This could be a lovely wedding band or anniversary ring, and can be easily expanded over the years.

Solitaire

The bold color of a ruby excels as a solitaire, whether a true solo gemstone or flanked by simple diamond accents for extra sparkle. Vintage rubies may even be highlighted by small pearls for dramatic luster.

Halo

A ruby halo ring combines the bold red hues of rubies with the classic sparkle of diamonds, creating a stunning piece that blends elegance with sophistication. The contrast between the deep ruby center and the surrounding diamonds adds visual depth, making the ring truly stand out.

Three Stone

A vintage ruby and diamond three-stone ring offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and rich history. The vibrant ruby symbolizes love and passion, while the diamonds represent strength and purity, making it a meaningful choice. Its vintage design adds a distinctive character, setting it apart from modern rings and making it truly one-of-a-kind.

Choosing Your Perfect Ruby Ring

Ultimately, choose the ring design you love best and that offers the character and symbolism you prefer. Vintage ruby rings have already withstood the test of time, and whichever one you choose, you’ll be adding a new chapter to its already beautiful and luxurious history.

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.