Antique engagement rings

While you find many people who like to go with the modern stream and look for something that is up-to-date, old style lovers are in search for jewelry which will bear the spirit of past times. Engagement rings are no exception! Celebrities select antique engagement rings to show a refined taste and exquisite style from the past. For example, Madonna wore Edwardian engagement ring and you wouldn’t doubt that was a great choice.

What is an antique engagement ring?
Old ring is like a good wine, it’s like saying that things get better with the time. Word “antique” is usually referred to rings, which date back to over 50 years. A ring created less than 50 years ago should be already considered an estate ring. You can also come across the “vintage” ring term, sometimes used to mean a ring originated from another era and sometimes a ring which only looks like the “old thing”.

Why to purchase an antique engagement ring?
Engagement ring serves one biggest purpose- to tell your beloved one about your true feelings and intentions, antique ring is like an inheritance from the past to symbolize something that is stable and durable.  Besides, this ring will be unique art piece, which will help you to stand out from a crowd. Just imagine that someone’s Grandma was wearing it and this is an old gift from the past.
On the other hand, antique diamonds are often high quality and more acceptable than new diamond engagement ring.

Antique engagement ring styles
Antique engagement rings reflect the jewelry fashion tastes of the era. Most popular antique styles of engagement rings are Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco era styles.

Victorian style (1835-1900)
Rings from Victorian era were inspired by romantic mood and usually vary from elegant to very flowery appearance. Victorian jewelry as a rule was made of yellow and rose gold. A mine cut, when rows of diamonds were cut with the additional facet on the bottom was very popular.

Edwardian style (1900-1920)
Platinum came on the fore front among other materials for engagement rings due to oxyacetylene torch invention. Delicate patterns decorate Edwardian rings. Colored diamonds and sapphires became a frequent choice of gemstones during this period. Such peculiarities as lacy and pierced shapes, milgraining were often crafted on the mountings.

Art Deco style (1920-1935)
These engagement rings change their look to a more geometric one. You can retrace Egyptian, Asian and American cultures reflected in Art Deco style. Platinum rings with diamonds or colorful gemstones, like rubies, sapphires, emeralds and others go as a popular choice.

Where to buy an antique engagement ring?
You can purchase antique engagement ring at jewelry or antique stores, estate sales, auctions, pawn shops and of course at online shops. The things you should keep in mind while buying an antique ring is to follow some common rules. Try to find a reputable seller who won’t give you a mere fake for Art Deco engagement ring. Carefully examine description of the item you’ve purchased. There you may find proof to genuine background of your engagement ring. This ring may cost you some extra money, but it surely is worth it. Remember, that you purchase a real piece of art which has proven its quality with the years.