Guide to vintage engagement rings

Vintage engagement rings are a beautiful and timeless choice for those who appreciate the classic designs of the past.

Here is a guide to help you understand the different eras and styles of vintage engagement rings:

1. Victorian Era (1835-1900): Engagement rings from this era often feature intricate details, such as floral or nature-inspired motifs, and can include colourful gemstones, such as rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. Common metal choices for Victorian-era rings are yellow gold and rose gold.
2. Art Nouveau Era (1890-1915): Art Nouveau engagement rings feature flowing, organic lines and often include delicate details like leaves, flowers, and vines. This style is known for its use of unusual gemstones, such as moonstones and opals. Platinum became a popular metal choice during this era.
3. Edwardian Era (1901-1910): Edwardian engagement rings are characterised by their intricate, lacy designs and often feature diamonds set in platinum or white gold. This era also saw the rise of the filigree technique, where the metal is crafted into delicate lace-like patterns.
4. Art Deco Era (1920-1935): Art Deco engagement rings are known for their geometric shapes and bold, geometric designs. This style features clean lines, symmetrical patterns, and bold, contrasting colours. Platinum and white gold were the most popular metals during this era.
5. Retro Era (1935-1950): Retro engagement rings are characterised by their large, bold designs and bright, bold gemstones. This era saw a rise in popularity of yellow gold, and rings often included yellow or rose gold accents. Designs from this era often feature floral motifs, bows, and ribbons.

When shopping for a vintage engagement ring, it’s important to work with a reputable jeweller who can authenticate the piece and provide details on its history and characteristics. It’s also important to keep in mind that vintage rings may have wear and tear or structural issues, so it’s important to have the ring inspected by a jeweller before purchasing.

When it comes to vintage engagement rings, it’s important to choose a ring that matches your personal style and tastes. You can also consider incorporating vintage elements into a modern ring design for a unique and personalised look.

Another factor to consider is the ring’s size and fit. Vintage rings may have been made to fit smaller fingers, so it’s important to ensure that the ring can be resized to fit your finger comfortably.

Finally, when caring for a vintage engagement ring, it’s important to take extra precautions to preserve its beauty and integrity. Vintage rings should be cleaned and maintained regularly to prevent damage or wear, and they should be stored in a safe and secure location when not being worn.