05 Mar Cocktail Ring Designers
Seen Above: A custom cocktail ring set with a 24.28 natural diamond, designed by Carl Blackburn.
If you are looking for a La Jolla jewelry designer or estate jewelry buyer who understands the world of cocktail rings, Carl Blackburn of C. Blackburn Jewelers is a local jeweler who you should talk with. Carl is a 2nd generation estate jeweler who both buys and sells pre-owned cocktail rings, as well as jewelry designer who uses his deep knowledge of vintage cocktail rings to create gorgeous cocktail rings for his clients. To have a cocktail ring designed for you or sell a cocktail ring, give Carl a call at 858-251-3006.
The history of cocktail rings can be traced back to the 1920s, during the Prohibition era in the United States. The term “cocktail ring” was coined to describe the oversized, statement-making rings that women wore to speakeasies and other illicit drinking establishments.
During this time, women were breaking free from traditional societal constraints and expressing themselves through fashion and accessories. The cocktail ring became a popular way to showcase individual style and a symbol of independence.
The design of cocktail rings often featured large, colorful gemstones or intricate metalwork, and were typically worn on the right hand as a way to show off the ring while holding a drink. The rings were also often designed to complement the elaborate, glitzy outfits worn by women during the Prohibition era.
Cocktail rings continued to be popular throughout the 1930s and 1940s, with Hollywood actresses such as Elizabeth Taylor and Joan Crawford helping to popularize the trend. Some of the world’s most famous cocktail rings include:
The Krupp Diamond Ring – This iconic cocktail ring was a gift from actor Richard Burton to his wife, Elizabeth Taylor. The ring features a 33.19-carat diamond, which Taylor frequently wore to parties and events. It is now part of the Elizabeth Taylor Jewelry Collection, which was auctioned off for a record-breaking $115 million in 2011.
The Cartier Panthère Ring – This bold and beautiful cocktail ring was created by the luxury jeweler Cartier in the 1940s. It features a large emerald-cut diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds, with a panther motif crafted from black onyx and diamonds. The ring has been worn by many famous women, including Princess Diana.
The Duchess of Windsor’s Onyx Ring – This stunning ring was given to Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, by her husband, King Edward VIII. The ring features a large, hexagonal-shaped onyx stone set in yellow gold, with a small diamond accent. The simplicity and elegance of the design have made it a timeless classic.
The Bvlgari Parentesi Cocktail Ring – This modern and sophisticated ring was created by the Italian luxury brand Bvlgari in the 1980s. It features a wide band of 18k gold with a geometric pattern of rectangular shapes. The bold and graphic design has made it a favorite of fashion-forward women around the world.
The Harry Winston Pink Legacy Ring – This spectacular cocktail ring features a 18.96-carat pink diamond set in a platinum band. It was auctioned off by Christie’s in 2018 for over $50 million, making it one of the most expensive rings ever sold. The ring’s striking color and exceptional clarity make it a true masterpiece of jewelry design.
The cocktail rings that Carl Blackburn designs are obviously much more affordable than these famous rings! But they are nonetheless still dazzling and a wonderful accompaniment to a fashion wardrobe for San Diego parties. Schedule an appointment to meet with Carl at his La Jolla jewelry store by sending him a message below.
