You can have something old, something new or borrowed. And something blue. A vintage-inspired engagement band is a great way to cover all the parts if you plan to marry.
What is a Vintage-Inspired Ring?
A ring more than twenty years old is considered vintage. However, most people believe a ring isn’t vintage until it’s fifty years old. A “vintage-inspired” engagement band is a term that describes rings that have an aged appearance but feel shiny and new.
The History of Vintage Style Engagement rings
An engagement ring should have a special meaning, regardless of whether it’s Victorian, Edwardian or Art Deco. Let’s take a look at the timeline for vintage engagement rings:
Victorian Era
In Victorian times, the tradition of gifting an engagement ring started. In 1886, Tiffany & Co. launched the classic diamond solitaire. This was the beginning of diamond engagement rings. Intertwined diamonds were a popular symbol of union and togetherness in the era. Vintage Victorian engagement rings are still very popular.
Edwardian Era
In Edwardian times, 18-carat yellow gold rings were very popular. However, jewelers started to use platinum in 1903. The designs became more complex and included filigree patterns, scrolls, and laurel leaves.
Art Deco Era
Art Deco was a new era that emerged in the 1920s. The era of Art Deco was a period when platinum and white gold were in fashion. Gem-cutting techniques used caliber cut gemstones as well as diamond baguettes. Bold engagement rings featured bold designs and prominent stones (diamonds or colored gems).
Post-War / Retro Era
Post-war times called for austerity, so cheap gems were often used in the production of rings. Thanks to the DeBeers campaign “A Diamond is Forever”, diamonds were the preferred gemstone when jewelry manufacturing was re-established properly. Popular were 18 carats of yellow and white gold, with platinum later returning to fashion.
1960’s 70s & 80s
In the 1960s and 1970s, Princess-cut gemstones were popular. Also, cluster engagement rings with large stones bordered by smaller stones became more popular. The 1980s saw the popularity of the oval and sapphire rings (made famous by Lady Diana), as well as colored gemstones.
Modern Day Engagement Rings
There are many options for engagement rings, with various cuts, metals and gemstones. The classic vintage rings are stylish and sophisticated. The original Tiffany & Co diamond solitaire is still one of the most loved styles of engagement rings.
Antique Vs. Vintage Engagement Rings
While “Antique” is a term you will often see when shopping for jewelry, it’s not the same as “vintage”. An antique ring is a ring that has been in existence for at least 100 years. We’ve mentioned that vintage rings are rings older than twenty years.
Who wears vintage and antique-inspired engagement rings?
The elegant and timeless look of antique-looking engagement rings is a favorite among brides of all ages. The timeless elegance of vintage engagement rings, such as diamond, sapphire, ruby, emerald and ruby, has stood the test of time and will continue to look stunning for many years.
Popular Metals for Vintage Engagement rings
Layering necklaces is a trend that began a few years back. It’s still very popular in 2022. This trend began with delicate looking to buy a vintage engagement band. The timeless gold ring is timeless and represents strength, wealth and love.
White gold and yellow gold are the most popular options, but vintage-style rings in rose gold or platinum are equally as attractive.
Choosing a Vintage Engagement Ring Gemstone
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and vintage-styled diamond engagement rings will continue to be fashionable regardless of whether they are made from the lab or natural diamonds. Vintage engagement rings can also be made with other gemstones. While ruby and sapphire are beautiful choices, emerald is a great choice if you’re looking for a vintage engagement ring.
Vintage Engagement Rings- Diamond Center Shapes
Engagement rings made of diamonds will always be associated with love and eternality. You can find diamonds in many shapes, including princess, pear and Asscher.
Vintage Looking Engagement Ring Vs. Modern Engagement Rings
While modern engagement rings can be stunning, a vintage engagement ring has a distinctive look and personality. Vintage-inspired engagement rings combine newness and sparkle with the charm and character of an antique piece.
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