A Guide To Antique Engagement Rings

Jewelry — By admin on May 23, 2010 at 2:40 pm

Why are antique engagement rings are so timeless and prized? They say, “Diamonds are forever”, this couldn’t be more true with the growing popularity of antique rings, all boasting rich histories, elegant designs and excellent craftsmanship. Each and every one is indeed a classic work of art.

What criteria must the ring fall under for it to be considered an antique ring? As a rule of thumb, it should be at least 50 years old. Any less and it will be considered an estate ring instead. Older diamond gemstones are brighter white in color and this is most expensive type. Jewelers of these eras held the color and contrast of the stones in higher regard than a stone’s clarity. This explains why modern diamonds are usually white in color, with clarity considered as more important by today’s craftsmen.

The cost of such antique and hard-to-find pieces are likely to come with a large price tag and may not come across as affordable to the average couple getting married. It may be many times the cost of a typical diamond ring you get from the regular jewelry store. However, the antique ring’s construction is exquisite, and the materials and craftsmanship are superior.

An alternative is getting antique ring settings done to replicate the antique ring look you desire.The price range for antique engagement ring settings can be as little as a hundred dollars so there’s definitely something to fit any budget.

There are three distinct styles of antique rings:

Antique Rings From The Victorian Era (1837-1901)

Material: Usually made out of yellow or rose colored gold.

Gemstones: Primarily diamonds with the use of colorful gemstones like rubies, sapphires, emeralds, pearls, topaz.

Design: Victorian designed rings vary widely, from simple designs to the fanciful, elegant and sophisticated. Intricate details is a hallmark for jewelry designers hailing from this era. Diamonds were often set in multiple rows.

Here are just some of the few designs or style, namely:

Victorian Romantic rings: Colored gemstones like rubies, emerald, topaz, amethyst were commonly used.
Victorian Half-Loop rings: Also used as engagement rings, rings of this kind are simple in design with small diamonds surrounding the central gemstone.
Colorful late Victorian rings: These are rings with 3 diamonds at the center surrounded with colored gemstones like rubies in the form of oblong shape.
Antique Victorian Diamond Garnet Gold rings: Has a simple antique style to it.

What’s So Special? The diamonds during this era has the mine cut, which is an extra facet row cut at the bottom of the diamond. It is interesting to know this was actually done to enhance the diamond’s sparkle in candle-lit environments.

Victorian rings can be considered the most romantic of engagement rings.

Antique Rings From The Edwardian Era (1900-1910)

Material: One of the first engagement rings made of platinum.

Gemstones: Rose cut diamonds and the use of sapphires in them was characteristic.

Design: Elaborate scrollwork, filigree detailing and milgraining design details on the ring itself.

The then-breakthrough technology using oxyacetylene welding meant that rings carried very lacey and inritcate designs. Very elegant looking indeed.

Antique Rings From The Art Deco Era (1920-1940)

Material: Platinum was commonly used.

Gemstones: Colorful stones are once again used alongside diamonds.

Design: Native American, Egyptian and Asian influences. And towards the era’s end, streamlined geometric design with diamonds become increasingly popular.

What’s So Special?

The rings’ designs are largely based on the architectural boom with inspiration lent from fields such as interior and industrial design. This explains why Art Deco rings are modern-looking but yet exude a certain elegance and glamor.

Where To Buy?

Obviously the most inexpensive way is to obtain an antique ring by means of it being a family heirloom that is handed down by the bride’s or groom’s family. Of course, this is the most preferable since no guesswork is involved and the ring’s history is clear.

The next best option would be buying from a reputable antique seller or jeweler. (Refer the proper documentation required below)

Finally estate sales and pawn shops are good places too but be wary and on your guard for dupes. Hire a certified gemologist to ascertain the ring’s authenticity and craftsmanship. If all else fails, search online but be cautious and authenticate the ring’s history and whether it is genuine.

Buying Checklist

Professional Appraisal:

Ensure the ring is professionally appraised before purchasing it. By doing this, you can be sure that it is a genuine diamond not look-alikes such as cubic zirconia, moissanite or other synthetic materials.. You can also determine if the ring has been repaired or in need of repair should chips or internal fractures be discovered under close examination. For antique platinum rings, check if the engraved design remains visible and that all parts of the filigree remain intact and firm.

Proper Documenation: Genuine dealers preserve documents about the ring’s original owners and the history behind the rings. Ensure all information about the antique ring is written on receipts, appraisals, and certifications. If possible, get a certificate from Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to ensure the authenticity of your antique diamond ring. A money-back guarantee from the seller would come in handy if you intend to get the ring authenticated by professionals in addition to the documents already provided by the seller.

Repair: In case the ring needs a repair, get an estimated cost of before proceeding.

Research both online and through books is recommended to further your knowledge to equip you to make the best buying decision you can for your beloved’s antique engagement ring. We wish you all the best!

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