Antique and vintage engagement rings often mean the same thing and are those rings that have been created in the 1980s or are older. They were crafted during a certain historical period and carry influences from that time. Even the use of particular materials, tools and methods varies from one era to another.
Vintage rings are so popular as engagement rings today because of their timeless appeal and classic design that transcends passing fashion fads. Moreover, they are also rare and also make the perfect option for those looking for a non-toxic, more eco-friendly option.
Vintage Diamond Engagement Ring Overview
Vintage rings carry with them a story and a history, making them special and unique. As mentioned above, rings from each time period are crafted with influences of the time. Vintage rings from the Victorian era between 1837 and 1900 were primarily crafted using yellow gold materials. They also heavily depended on the halo setting for the stone placement. Then came the Edwardian era between 1901 and 1910, where floral patterns in ornate platinum filigree were popular.
Following this was the Art Deco period, when industrialization came into play. During this period, rings were all handcrafted using symmetrical and architectural designs. They also incorporated colored stones in them. Lastly was the Retro Era around 1940, yellow and rose gold rings rose to popularity, and white gold was competing with platinum.
Are Vintage Diamond Engagement Rings Expensive?
Vintage diamond engagement rings are considered to be less expensive than modern diamond rings today. Having said that, sometimes they are so rare that they could be on the higher, more expensive end. On average, a vintage ring can cost anywhere between $900 to $20,000 and more. This depends on several factors, including ring setting, the gemstone choice and the 4Cs – color, cut, clarity, and carat weight.
It would also be helpful to remember that vintage rings also are expensive when repair costs are added on.
10 Most Unique Antique Diamond Engagement Rings For Your Loved Ones
If you’re on the lookout for antique engagement rings that stand on, read on as we’ve listed unique ones below:
- Authentic Art Deco Platinum Vintage Diamond Engagement RingArt deco rings come from the period of 1920s and 1930s and it was a prominent style for jewelry during this period. It is characterized by geometric patterns and abstract designs, and it comes with the heavy use of diamonds and gems but in contrasting colors. This style, in particular, has bold, geometric shapes along with a close cluster of diamonds. Besides this, the ring also features organic curves on the edges and the milgrain detail.
- Old European Cut Diamond RingsThis type of vintage engagement ring usually has an old European round cut diamond as the center stone. It also comes with a milgrain bezel setting that makes this piece of jewelry truly pop and stand out from the rest. You can also choose to add engraving to this type of ring to make it more personal and special to your loved one.
- Emerald Adonia Diamond Ring In PlatinumThis next type is inspired by the Greek and means for the beautiful lady. This style has an emerald cut diamond, which is embedded in a four-claw setting. The best part is that the band comes with a split detail that helps highlight the diamond. This is ideal for those who aren’t afraid of the spotlight because it is definitely a showstopper.
- Geometric Art Deco Vintage Inspired Diamond RingsAs mentioned already, art deco rings can be dated back to 1915 and have lasted up to around the mid-1930s. Colored gems such as sapphire, ruby, or emerald, along with diamonds, were a popular choice. But not to forget, they had various geometric patterns such as large rectangular center stones, circular or square halos, or uniquely-shaped side stones, etc.
- Art Nouveau Antique Diamond RingsArt Nouveau roughly translates to “new art” and these rings were created in France between 1890 and 1915. Nouveau Antique Diamond Rings have several characteristics, including flowing symmetry and elegant design. They also included bold colors and materials and the often-seen motifs during this time in engagement rings were insects, birds and celestial bodies. So if you prefer a more feminine feel, then these rings should be your go-to option.
- Victorian Antique Diamond Engagement RingVictorian engagement rings were created from 1837 to 1901. These rings are known for being ornate and have intricate designs with sentimental symbols such as hearts and flowers. The most common materials used to craft these rings include precious metals such as silver and gold, and these were coupled with diamonds and other gemstones.
- Deco Style Aquamarine & Diamond Two-Tone RingThese types of vintage rings were popular during the 1930s. In this style, an original antique cut aquamarine gemstone is placed at the center. A unique part of this stone is that it casts a two-tone hue.
- Antique Old Mine Diamond Five Stone RingOnce again inspired by the art deco movement, these rings have geometric patterns and colors and also include filigree and milgrain work. This one specifically is unique as it contains five exquisitely balanced vintage stones that are embedded on the ring’s band. Since five stones are placed side-by-side, these rings offer more shine and sparkle when compared to the others.
- Rose Gold Halo Vintage-Inspired Diamond Engagement RingThis type of ring is not exactly vintage but borrows ideas and characteristics of that time. Halo ring settings were first used in the Georgian era between 1714 and 1837, where the center gemstone was completely encircled by smaller diamonds. But what makes these rings truly vintage is the rose gold hue that offers an antique-inspired warmth to these designs.
- Garnet Antique Victorian Diamond Engagement RingDuring the Victorian era, garnet rings were popular. This design has engraved shoulders and milgrain detailing around the gemstones, such as garnet. They also had intricate designs with antique old cut stones.
Now that you have a detailed view of what antique diamond engagement rings are and why they are so special, along with learning about the types, we hope you find one that is perfect for you and your loved one.
