The two stone ring: history and meaning
Two stone rings, sometimes called toi et moi rings from the French for 'you and me', place two gemstones side by side rather than a single central stone. The two stone ring design has a long history but became especially popular during the Art Deco period, when jewellers used the antique two stone ring format to experiment with symmetry and contrast - two diamonds of matching size, or an antique two stone ring pairing a diamond with a coloured stone such as a sapphire or emerald.
The symbolism is part of the appeal of a two stone ring: two stones set as equals, rather than one stone supported by smaller accents, is often read as representing partnership. That has made the two stone engagement ring a popular choice among couples who want a vintage two stone ring rather than a traditional solitaire, and the art deco two stone ring in particular remains one of the most distinctive engagement ring styles from the period.
Styles in our two stone ring collection
Our two stone ring collection includes Art Deco and later examples in a range of stone combinations, from matched diamond pairs to diamond and coloured gemstone antique two stone rings. Settings on our vintage two stone rings vary from simple platinum claws to more elaborate geometric mounts with milgrain edging, typical of the finest art deco two stone ring designs of the 1920s and 30s.
Many of our antique two stone rings are well suited as a two stone engagement ring, offering an alternative to a single stone solitaire for couples who want their engagement ring to represent two people as equals. We also carry two stone rings set with a diamond alongside a coloured gemstone, giving each two stone ring a distinctive look within our wider antique ring collection.
Buying a two stone ring: what to look for
Because the two settings on a two stone ring need to be sized to match, wear patterns are worth checking carefully - we assess claw security on both stones of every antique two stone ring individually rather than treating the ring as a single unit. Colour and cut matching between the two stones matters more on a two stone ring than on many other antique ring styles, and we describe both stones honestly in every listing.
If you are considering a two stone ring for an engagement, we can talk through sizing, resizing options and which historical two stone ring styles tend to hold up best to daily wear, whether you are drawn to a Victorian, Edwardian or art deco two stone ring.
Visit us or browse online
Our two stone ring collection changes regularly as new pieces come in. If you are looking for a specific stone combination or period within our two stone rings, please contact us directly, or visit our shop at 29 High Street, Battle, East Sussex, open Monday to Saturday, 10:15 to 17:00.