A hundred years ago, in the throes of the roaring ''20s, cocktail rings found their birthplace in America''s lavish party scene. Worn to be eye-catching and symbolise that it is indeed now time to party, the earliest cocktail rings were very oversized, often starring a large diamond in the central role, surrounded by other, smaller diamonds. It may have been the age of the prohibition, but that wasn''t going to stop Americans everywhere from drinking and partying, if in something resembling secret. Speakeasy bars served alcohol in secret, often having bars hidden behind or beneath otherwise innocent storefronts.

Cocktail rings were a part of the change happening for women of this era. Celebrating their independence and freedoms through lavish dresses, more makeup than had previously been commonly worn, and bigger, brighter, bolder pieces of antique jewellery. In a way, cocktail rings posed an avenue for women to show off, flaunting their independence with stylish rebellion.

Learn more about the cocktail ring history.

A cocktail ring is a statement piece of jewellery, known for its bold and eye-catching design. It is typically larger and more extravagant than regular rings, and it''s often adorned with precious gemstones or other decorative elements.

The appropriateness of wearing a cocktail ring depends on the occasion and personal style. We would say cocktail rings are best suited to formal events such as black-tie parties and weddings and best to avoid wearing a cocktail ring for casual or professional events.

This is down to personal choice; however, they are by their design very statement and often people prefer to wear them on their own to showcase the piece as an individual item.