Vintage Engagement Rings
Is it possible that you are a fan of the fancy filigree style? Do you love romantic three-stone settings of promise rings for couples? If yes, you might want to consider a vintage engagement ring.
Vintage engagement ring, or antique rings, are full of design elements from the past. These rings have a certain charm, with their gemstones and intricate detailing. In this post, we will discuss the history and use of vintage matching couple jewelry.
What is a Vintage Ring
Technically, the term "vintage ring" refers a ring older than 20-30 years but younger than 100. These rings usually have been owned before.
It is not unusual to see vintage-inspired styles being sold by retailers that are brand new and have never even been worn. These designs give a nod to the past, with elements such as elaborate filigree work and bright stones.
What Is matching couple necklaces?
To be considered “antique”, a ring has to have been owned previously and made between 50 and 100 years prior.
What are the different Eras?
Victorian Era (1835-1900)
Victorian jewelry took its name from Queen Victoria. The adored monarch was the inspiration for many Victorian pieces. Victorian engagement rings often feature colored gems like turquoise or amethyst. Other options include aquamarine, blue enamel and aquamarine. You could find a message hidden on the band, or heart-shaped details to add a touch of romance.
Edwardian Era (1901-1916)
Edwardian Era (named after King Edward VII) is a subset of Art Nouveau. Art Deco and Victorian-inspired pieces are prevalent in this period. Edwardian style engagement rings could feature several diamonds in a monochromatic setting of silver, gold and platinum. Rings of this style feature metalwork with impressive filigree.
Art Deco Era (1920-1940)
During the Roaring 20s the style was geometric shapes with rich colors and sharp lines. Ornaments were symmetrical. Art Deco engagement rings could feature a variety of brightly colored gems like rubies and sapphires. Platinum settings, as well as rich colors, were the most popular choice for this time period.
Retro Era (1935-1950)
Feminine styles flooded the market as women began to make their mark in the workplace. Retro-style pieces were heavily inspired by Hollywood glamour and featured bold, 3-dimensional designs with mixed metals. Retro engagement rings include girly features like ribbons flowers and bows to add a little extra fun.
Vintage Engagement ring settings
Halo settings are engagement rings that feature a larger center stone, surrounded by smaller stones. The halo setting is a popular choice for vintage settings because it can make your diamond seem even larger.
Filigree is a form of metalwork that has intricate ornamentation. Filigreeing is a different process from engraving. It involves putting embellished metallic on top a piece. The result is unique engagement rings that pay homage to Edwardian jewelry.
Cluster diamond rings can include floral engagement ring designs. In this romantic pattern, the center stone is flanked by several accents stones in a flowerlike arrangement. As with the halo settings, floral engagement rings create an illusion of larger carats. With vintage floral engagements rings, you don't necessarily need the largest stone on the diamond carat chart to make an impact.
Three stone settings have a classic vintage feel. This setting has a sparkling center stone with two smaller sidestones. It represents a couples past, present and their future. This setting is perfect for couples with a strong sense of symbolism. Opt to use baguette cut stones as side stones to give your ring a vintage touch.
Prong engagements rings can have a retro look when they are styled with the appropriate stones. They were a popular minimalistic design in the 1920s. Opt for an engagement ring that features a 4-prong setting and accent stones with single cut and baguette diamonds to give it a vintage style.
This timeless solitaire diamond ring is the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. These minimalist rings feature a sleek metal band which draws the eye to a sparkling center stone. Solitaires are elegant and simple.