Choosing an engagement ring for your partner is one of the most exciting, and strenuous, decisions you will have to make. If you are reading this article then chances are your significant other posed their interest in a vintage engagement ring. Where to start when choosing an engagement ring in a vintage style?
To help you out, we’ve compiled this expert guide for all newbies shopping around for engagement ring in a vintage style
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What is Vintage?
First, it’s important to note that vintage is a word that describe different styles from history. Any clothing, jewelry, or furniture that dates back more than 20 years can be considered as vintage.
Even though you can’t go wrong with any piece of jewelry that dates back that long ago, you need to find out which era’s style your partner prefers. When you want to hit the nail on the head when it comes to choosing the perfect style engagement ring, you need to narrow it down a bit more.
Here is a guide to the five most popular eras to consider:
Georgian (1714-1830s)
Jewelry made in the Georgian era has become very rare. Most pieces are held in museums or part of family trusts. It features a more rugged design, not as polished as other eras. This is mainly due to the shortage of specialized and intricate tools used to create detailed bands.
It is said that this era’s jewelry was regal and opulent. Usually featuring different colored stones (either clear, red, or emerald green). Diamonds were cut in old mine or rose designs and set in a closed back setting, sometimes with foil.
Learn more about the Georgian era history in this article: https://www.gemsociety.org/jewelry-lapidary/antique-and-jewelry-history/.
Victorian (1837-1901)
The lady who started almost every wedding trend comes from the royal family. Queen Victoria of England was so stylish that she even had a whole fashion era named after her. The entire Victorian era is a reflection of the Queen’s exquisite taste. Usually depicting her life’s story that moves from joy to despair and then back to joyfulness.
Metals famously used during this era were gold, rose gold, and silver. Designs were typically shaped in floral clusters. You can bet your bottom dollar that no expense was spared when choosing the most elaborate diamonds and stones for these rings.
Center diamonds are usually larger than life and surrounded by big diamond pieces as well.
Edwardian (1901-1920)
The Edwardian era introduced a very intricate and delicately designed engagement ring. Designs look almost as light as air with very thin bands and connecting metal work. Typically characterized as light, delicate, and airy.
This era was seen as the bridge between past romanticism and the contemporary future. The band of the piece as well as the stone’s setting will have delicate lace work and Filigree detailing.
For all the Lord of the Rings fans out there, Edwardian pieces are perfect options for you. As the elves would wear headbands and necklaces in the Edwardian style.
Art Deco (1915-1935)
Art Deco is a style that’s most known for its bold, sharp, and geometrically styled furniture. This doesn’t mean that jewelry took a back seat. Typically defined as a more masculine type design, these vintage engagement rings feature strong lines with futuristic motifs.
This was also the era where platinum metals were picked over gold and silver. Formations and stone settings were typically geometric and straight in form. Think ‘Great Gatsby’ when it comes to Art Deco. The roaring 20s (also referred to as the Jazz age) was all about rectangular and sharp shiny mirrors and geometrical furniture.
Art Deco rings have to be very carefully picked, especially when bought for a woman. Knowing your significant other’s style is important in picking the perfect design. As some Art Deco rings can look quite masculine compared to others.
Watch this for a few things you should know before choosing and buying an engagement ring for your beloved.
Mid Century (1935-1965)
This era was Hollywood’s golden age. A time when glitz and glam ruled the world and bigger was always better. The era combined a variety of different designs which featured feminine motifs, curved lines, and minimalist bands.
PICKING THE PERFECT RING
Now that you understand the different eras, you can start assessing which style best suits your bride (or groom) to be. Do they like delicate and intricate? Or are they more a fan of geometrical and clean lines? Knowing exactly what sense of style your partner has will indicate which era’s ring you should consider.
If they love rose gold and big bold diamonds, you should opt for a Victorian engagement ring. When they like frills and intricate lace work, then you should opt for an engagement ring from the Edwardian era.
For those who absolutely love bling, glitz, and glam; a mid-century design is up your alley.
Regardless of which era ring you decide to purchase, there’s really no going wrong when choosing a engagement ring in a vintage style. Each design comes with a special story to tell and a uniquely designed style.
Once you’ve purchased the perfect vintage engagement ring, you can start planning the perfect proposal for your partner-to-be.
TRENDING VINTAGE ENGAGEMENT RINGS
If your soon-to-be is all about staying trendy, you want to make sure that the vintage ring isn’t old fashioned. Because vintage-inspired engagement rings can be made in current times, you can consider getting a piece that embodies all of the special features of a vintage era with a modern twist.
Combining different eras’ aesthetics are also an option to consider. A square diamond cut in the Art Deco style with Georgian delicate designs on the band is a special and unique option.
Buying an original antique can become quite costly as well. When you do purchase the real deal, you will be buying a piece of history. If you want to give your partner something sparkling and new you can consult your local jeweler.
As long as the engagement ring embodies all the characteristics of their favorite era, you’ll be making the right choice.
