A Guide to Vintage Inspired Engagement Rings
Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. If you're planning on getting wed you could cover the old and new parts in one fell swoop with a vintage-inspired engagement ring.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is a Vintage-Inspired Engagement Ring?
The term “vintage engagement ring” is often applied to any ring that's over twenty years old, however, many believe a ring isn't vintage until it's at least fifty years old. The term “vintage-inspired” engagement ring is typically used to describe rings that look and feel old but are shiny and new!
The History of Vintage Style Engagement Rings
Whether you're seeking a Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, retro ring, or something more modern, an engagement ring should be special. Let's check out the vintage engagement ring timeline:
Victorian Era
The tradition of giving an engagement ring began in Victorian times. The middle classes took a shine to diamond engagement rings, and in 1886 Tiffany & Co launched their classic diamond solitaire. Rings of this era also featured intertwined diamonds (symbolizing union and togetherness) and vintage Victorian engagement rings are still popular today.
Edwardian Era
In Edwardian times 18 carat yellow gold rings became popular and in 1903 jewelers began to work with platinum too. Designs became more intricate and featured filigree patterns, scrolls, and laurel leaves
Art Deco Era
The 1920s saw the arrival of the Art Deco era. Platinum and white gold came into fashion and gem-cutting techniques included caliber cut gemstones and diamond baguettes. Engagement rings were typically bold, featuring geometric designs, and prominent stones (diamonds and colored gems).
Post-War / Retro Era
The post-war era called for austerity, so cheaper gems were often used to produce rings. When jewelry manufacture finally re-started properly diamonds became the gemstone of choice, thanks in part, to the DeBeers “a Diamond is Forever” campaign. 18 carat white and yellow gold were popular, and later, platinum returned to fashion too.
1960's 70s & 80s
In the 1960s and 70s, Princess-cut stones came into their own, along with cluster engagement rings featuring large stones bordered by smaller ones. The 1980's laid claim to the oval diamond and sapphire ring (made famous by Lady Diana), and colored gemstones were a hit too.
Modern Day Engagement Rings
There's a broad array of engagement rings available, featuring all manner of styles, cuts, metals, and gemstones. Classic vintage engagement rings are considered stylish and sophisticated. That first Tiffany & Co diamond solitaire still ranks as one of the most popular styles of engagement rings ever!
Antique vs. Vintage Engagement Rings
“Antique” and “Vintage” are terms you often come across when browsing jewelry, but the two aren't the same. The description “antique ring” usually refers to rings that are no less than a hundred years old. As we've already mentioned, the term vintage is typically applied to rings over twenty years old.
Who Wears Vintage and Antique Inspired Engagement Rings?
Antique-looking engagement rings look fabulously stylish and are favored by brides to be of all ages. The classic elegance of vintage engagement rings - diamond, emerald, ruby, and sapphire stand the test of time well and will look just as stunning in years to come.
Popular Metals for Vintage Engagement Rings
The trend of layering necklaces started a few years ago, and it's still going strong in 2022. This trend started with dainty cLooking for a vintage engagement ring? Gold rings are ageless and the precious metal symbolizes strength, wealth, warmth, and love.
Yellow gold and white gold are popular choices, but vintage-style engagement rings - rose gold and platinum are just as desirable.
Choosing A Vintage Engagement Ring Gemstone
They say diamonds are a girl's best friend and vintage-style diamond engagement rings will always be in fashion, whether they are fashioned from natural diamonds or lab diamonds. However, other gemstones also look striking in vintage engagement rings. Sapphire and ruby are exquisite choices, but if you are hankering after a unique vintage engagement ring, emerald could be perfect for you.
Vintage Engagement Rings - Diamond Center Shapes
Diamond engagement rings will forever be associated with eternal love, and you'll find diamonds in a range of shapes including cushion, princess, pear, asscher, emerald, oval, round, marquise, and radiant.
Vintage Looking Engagement Ring Vs Modern Engagement Rings
Modern engagement rings are dazzling, but a unique vintage engagement ring boasts distinctive looks and character. A vintage-looking engagement ring combines newness and sparkle with the charm of an antique item.
With Clarity Engagement Rings
Let's take a look at a handful of beautiful rings available from With Clarity. Each of the rings featured is available in 14kt or 18kt white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum. You can also choose a natural diamond (100% earth-created and GIA certified) or a lab diamond (same good looks and chemical properties as a natural stone, but more affordable).
Traditional Pave Diamond Engagement Ring
The Traditional Pave Diamond Engagement Ring boasts a dazzling diamond with a hint of 0.10 cts accent diamonds. This beautiful ring has a pave setting (small diamonds on the band) and is available in a range of shapes including round, princess, radiant, pear, cushion, asscher, emerald, marquise, and oval.
Ridged Pave Diamond Engagement Ring
A striking Ridged Pave Diamond Engagement Ring which boasts a round diamond shape. The impressive center stone is bright and bold, so has an art deco feel. The 0.10 cts of pave set accent diamonds are raised and ridged, ensuring they stand out for all to see.
Floral Diamond Engagement Ring
Featuring milgraining and floral carvings associated with the Edwardian era, the Floral Diamond Engagement Ring features 0.30 cts of paved diamonds to accompany the glittering central stone.
Under Bezeled Accent Diamond Engagement Ring
Pretty as a picture, the Under Bezeled Accent Diamond Engagement Ring has pave diamonds that appear to float around the central diamond (choose from a round, princess, asscher, marquise, or oval shape).
Three Stone Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring
Bezel settings wrap each diamond protectively and are in keeping with the vintage style. As the name suggests the Three Stone Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring features a trio of beautiful stones, perfectly accented by baguette gems.
Twisting Solitaire Diamond Ring
A solitaire (reminiscent of the Tiffany & Co design), but with a difference, the Twisting Solitaire Diamond Ring comes in a range of shapes including princess, oval, and cushion. The ring is reminiscent of the Victorian era with its criss-cross bands and central elevated diamond.
FAQs
What is a vintage-style engagement ring?
A ring that boasts an antiquated look or feel, but is actually brand new!
How popular are vintage-style engagement rings?o you wear two necklaces at once?
Classic vintage engagement rings are on-trend and could be exactly what you’re seeking if you are looking for a unique and timeless ring.
What common metals are used to craft vintage-style engagement rings?
The best way to avoid tangling is to ensure that your necklaces are a minimum of two inches apart in length, however, Vintage-style engagement rings are crafted from a variety of metals, including, rose gold, white gold, yellow gold, and platinum.
What should I avoid when buying a vintage-style engagement ring?
Make sure you are purchasing a quality engagement ring from an eminent jewelry store, such as With Clarity. This will put your mind at rest that your engagement ring has been carefully crafted with quality precious metals and gemstones.
