Everything You Need to Know About Vintage Rings

Everything You Need to Know About Vintage Rings

What is a vintage engagement ring?

Vintage engagement rings are from between 20 and 100 years ago. Beyond this period, a ring becomes antique. Vintage engagement rings are almost always second-hand, though some unworn rings may be available. There are also vintage-inspired engagement rings that are made new or reproduction rings that copy designs from one of the leading vintage eras.

Ring Trends through the Decades

Your search for your ideal vintage ring will take you through some of the most distinctive fashion periods from the past century:

Art Deco: The 1920s

Opulent diamond jewelry was a prominent feature of the Art Déco era. Gatsbyesque elongated proportions and details like geometric designs, triangular shapes, and sleek and streamlined finishes were widely featured in rings from this era. During this period, many diamonds were still hand-cut in the Old European style with a greater emphasis on shape and proportion than brilliance.

Retro: The 1940s to 1960s

Retro style is often what comes to mind when thinking of 'vintage' items. The retro period spans the more austere and militaristic 1940s to the color and vivacity of the 1960s. During this period, the round brilliant cut diamond came to the forefront with a variety of inventive settings that are rich in vintage charm and distinction.

Mid-Century: The 1950s

Increasing prosperity and the strong influence of couturier Christian Dior's New Look shaped an era in fashion and jewelry that is still admired for its unrivaled glamour. Perfect for the modern bride who appreciates the 'Mad Men' aesthetic.

New Romantic: The 1980s

The New Romantic movement embraced lace, velvet, diamonds, and pearls of 18th-century romanticism and was popular among music artists like David Bowie. The stunning 14 diamond and sapphire engagement ring of Diana, Princess of Wales, drew worldwide attention and has continued to be an inspiration for many future brides to this day.

Minimalist: The 1990s

The understated style of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and designers including Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, and Prada were characteristic of 90s minimalism. The minimalist style eschewed yellow gold and embellishments, instead opting for clean lines, smooth curves, a preference for white gold and platinum.

Reasons to choose a vintage-inspired engagement ring

The reasons for choosing a vintage-inspired engagement ring are as unique and special as you. Here are some notable benefits of owning a vintage-inspired ring:

An ethical choice

A vintage-inspired engagement ring is always a gorgeous choice, and some couples may appreciate choosing a ring that is sustainable and conflict diamond-free, as opposed to authentic vintage rings that may have ethical issues connected to them.

Vintage engagement rings are always on-trend

Interest in vintage clothing and jewelry is increasing as people look for unique pieces that reflect their character and style. Contemporary fashion frequently revisits vintage eras, meaning your ring is unlikely to go out of style.

Comparing Authentic Vintage Rings & Vintage Inspired Rings

Authentic vintage rings are certainly a beautiful choice as engagement rings. However, there are many qualities to look out for when searching for an authentic vintage ring. Here are some downsides of authentic vintage rings that might just convince you that vintage-inspired could be the way to go.

The stones may be less brilliant than expected

Expert cleaning transforms authentic vintage engagement rings, but the cut of the stones may mean that they don't possess the brilliance of contemporary diamonds. Vintage diamond cuts like Old European and Transition may have less brilliance but still glow in their own, charming way.

Prong snagging & fragile stones

The claws or prongs of a ring may be loose, risking the loss of a stone. Rough edges also may cause the ring to snag on clothing. Many authentic vintage engagement rings also include stones like emeralds or opals that can become damaged more easily than diamonds.

Resizing may be a challenge

If your authentic vintage ring is the wrong size, you have the challenge of resizing your engagement ring without affecting the stones or damaging the setting. Resizing may also add to the cost of your ring.

Matching a wedding band could get difficult

With a one-of-kind engagement ring, finding a band that coordinates and stacks perfectly can prove difficult. Matching a classic solitaire to a wedding band will be easier, but for vintage rings with an exaggerated silhouette or setting that is close to the finger, a standard wedding band is unlikely to fit.

Solutions include selecting an open wedding ring or a chevron wedding ring, or creating an entirely custom band. The one upside of authentic vintage rings?

Pricing can be competitive

As authentic vintage engagement rings are secondhand, they present the opportunity to source a beautiful ring at a great price. Ideally, your money will go much further meaning you can select a ring with more generous carat weight.