A Guide To Antique Engagement Rings
Antique engagement rings are a unique and beautiful alternative
to a new ring. The tradition of giving separate rings for the
engagement and the marriage started in Victorian England. The
first DeBeers diamond minds in the late 1800s helped increase
the popularity of engagement rings.
The earliest diamonds were not nearly as brilliant as today's
rings. The first mine cut diamonds were not very clear. This
improved in the early 20th century with the European cut
diamonds. These are often found in rings from the Art Deco
period. Diamond cutting continued to improve and evolve into the
brilliant cut that is still used today.
Larger stones are found in Victorian rings. While these diamonds
don't have the clarity of newer rings, the stone is generally
larger. Rings became smaller throughout the early 1900s and into
the Great Depression. Overall, the quality of the diamond
affects the price. Clarity isn't as important in antique rings
as it is in new ones. The value depends more on the demand for
specific rings.
The most popular vintage rings are from the Victorian Era
through the 1940s. Distinct styles, settings and stones can be
seen in rings from each period. Victorian rings are generally
yellow or rose colored gold. The stone can be a diamond, but
pearls were just as common in this time period. Edwardian rings
have a filigree design in the rings. Some may have Jewish or
Christian designs in the filigree.
Art Deco rings of the 1920s are generally platinum, white gold
or silver. Bezel settings are common in these rings. The setting
makes the smaller diamond appear larger. Rings became smaller
and less ornate in the 1930s and 1940s. Platinum became less
common during the war years and yellow or white gold was
commonly used in rings. Carvings on the shank and settings
helped make the center stone appear larger. Where to Find
Antique Engagement Rings There are several good places to find
antique rings. Antique stores often carry jewelry. Some dealers
are more knowledgeable than others about the details and value
of rings from each period. In some cases, you ca get a really
good deal. Some stores under sell jewelry because they don't
know its true value. The ring may not come with a certificate.
If not, have it independently appraised for insurance.
Jewelers sometimes carry vintage pieces. A good jeweler will be
knowledgeable about the value of the ring. You may not get as
good a deal, but will have the peace of mind of knowing that you
have a quality ring. You will be given a certificate for the
diamond when you buy from a jeweler.
Estate sales are a good place to find antique wedding jewelry.
You can usually arrange to view the items the day before the
estate sale. Read about the value and characteristics of antique
rings to help determine the value of the ring. Inspect the ring
carefully before the sale to decide how high you will bid. You
can find information in books at the library or on the internet.
Caring for Antique Engagement Rings Antique diamond jewelry will
retain its beauty for years, if you care for it properly. Before
you purchase the ring, have the jeweler inspect the prongs
carefully to be sure the stone won't come loose. You don't want
to lose your diamond. Take the ring to the jeweler for
professional cleaning and inspection once or twice a year.