Vintage & Antique Engagement Ring Styles: A Brief Guide

Does your partner love retro styles and pieces inspired by times gone by? Are they an individual with a unique sense of style who prefers a ring that absolutely nobody else has? Then getting a vintage engagement ring might be a perfect choice.

When searching for the ideal engagement ring for the love of your life, look no further than Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. We boast the finest collection of both modern and vintage rings, jewelry and loose diamonds in San Diego. Visit us and we’ll help you find the vintage style you’ve been looking for! 

What are vintage engagement rings? 

What exactly makes a ring vintage? First of all, you should understand the difference between antique, vintage and vintage-inspired engagement rings. While the term vintage may refer to rings actually created in certain eras or rings designed to look like those from previous time periods, a ring is considered antique if it’s older than 50 or 100 years old, depending on the source of information.  

When purchasing an engagement ring, you first need to decide whether you want to buy a real antique ring that has been handed down through the years or a beautiful vintage-inspired ring created by modern jewelers. 

No matter what you choose, you’ll surely manage to find a unique ring that matches your partner’s style perfectly. Vintage and vintage-inspired rings have a special kind of sophistication and charm which can’t always be found in contemporary ring styles.  

What are some vintage engagement ring styles? 

Due to the ever-growing popularity of vintage rings and other jewelry, more and more phony antique rings are popping up on the market. If you’ve decided to buy an antique or vintage engagement ring, it’s highly advisable to hire an expert to help you find a genuine vintage ring your future fiancé is sure to love. 

Whether you’re in the market for a genuine antique or vintage ring, or something that’s vintage-inspired, read on to discover some of the most popular styles you can choose from.  

Georgian engagement ring styles (1714–1837)

Rings from the Georgian Period were mostly handcrafted and one-of-a-kind. They were made from silver and gold and featured uncut gemstones of different shapes and sizes due to the underdeveloped cutting technology. The rings were mostly influenced by nature with floral motifs and shapes of birds, leaves, and insects. The period’s most popular stones included diamonds, amethyst, topaz, sapphire, and garnet. 

Victorian engagement ring styles (1835–1900) 

The Victorian period was characterized by constantly changing trends and romantic themes. Rose and yellow gold were the most popular precious metals and rings often featured pearls, opals, faceted diamonds, and black jet stones. This period introduced the “mine cut”, a diamond cut which incorporated an additional facet cut at the bottom of the stone. In addition, the ever-popular solitaire diamonds were also born in the Victorian era. 

Edwardian engagement ring styles (1900–1920)

Some notable features of Edwardian jewelry include intricate filigree, scrollwork details, and a high level of craftsmanship employed to create these complex but delicate ring designs. Platinum rings were the most common choice by far due to the metal being strong, light and easy to work with. Rose-cut diamonds, sapphires, and aquamarines were the preferred stones during the Edwardian era. 

Art Deco engagement ring styles (1920–1930) 

The free, bold, exotic and fun spirit of the jazz age was reflected in the jewelry trends of the Art Deco era. The ring styles were characterized by straight, sleek lines and geometric designs paired with brightly colored gemstones or brilliant diamonds set in white gold or platinum. In addition to rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, Art Deco engagement rings often featured red coral and black onyx accents.  

Shop vintage jewelry and brilliant diamonds in San Diego

Whether you’re looking for a unique and sophisticated antique engagement ring, or a vintage piece inspired by your fiancé’s favorite time period, we can help you find the perfect style. Just stop by our luxurious storeroom near Downtown San Diego and let our experienced staff help you pick the ring that best encapsulates the love you have for your partner.  

Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is the place to be whether you want to buy unique vintage pieces or sell your diamond ring and get a sizeable payout. Visit us today and see why our customers love us!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/07/vintage-engagement-ring-styles/