Rings that Rocks. Diamond rings from the 15th century until today: a story about power, love and splendor

Book / History ContemporaryJewelleryTheory Catalogues

Published: 19.08.2026

Rings that Rocks. Diamond rings from the 15th century until today: a story about power, love and splendor.

Catherine Regout

Editor:: Siska Genbrugge

Text by:: Emma Gregory, Bella Neyman, Melissa Smet, Julia Wild

Edited by:: DIVA Museum for diamonds, jewellery and silver

Edited at:: Antwerpen

Edited on:: 2026

Technical data:: 119 p, Dutch/English

ISBN / ISSN:: 9789078487296

Price:: from 10 €

Order:: Mail DIVA Museum

Catalogue's inner pages

Published on the occasion of the exhibition Rings That Rock: Diamond Rings at DIVA Museum in Antwerp, this catalogue explores the history, symbolism and changing meanings of the diamond ring from the 15th century to the present day.

Throughout history, rings have been much more than mere jewellery. They symbolised authority and power, sealed bonds of love and served as the ultimate status symbols. Rings That Rock traces this rich history and shows how one seemingly small object can carry an extraordinary amount of meaning.

The exhibition and the catalogue feature royal jewellery, striking statement pieces and rings for men. Until the 15th century, diamond rings were worn exclusively by men. The diamond ring was the ultimate symbol of power for kings and high nobility. The jewellery illustrates how rings were worn and valued in different social contexts and periods. Behind this seemingly small object lies a world of stories about power, desire, beauty and ethics. In addition, the first engagement ring and rare designs with pink, heart-shaped diamonds are presented: jewellery in which meaning and aesthetics come together.
Some rings sparkle. Others... rock!

Translation by Bie Van Laer.