Firstly, I would like to start off by saying vintage engagement rings are not only for engagements! Of course I am a girl who would love to get a vintage engagement ring from my prince charming but since I’m currently awaiting him like sleeping beauty I would also like to say I already have many vintage rings of my own, just because! I wear them on special occasions or sometimes just to make myself feel like a queen! Anyone can purchase a vintage engagement ring that is perfect for any occasion! Here are 5 things to consider when choosing the perfect vintage engagement ring to fit your style.
- Knowing which era you like
- Colored stones
- Metals
- Uniqueness
- Amazing Value
Know which era you like
Knowing the era is very important when deciding on a vintage ring. All the eras have different styles and things that make them unique! Knowing the differences in time periods can make a huge impact on your purchasing decision. Different eras include: Georgian Era, Victorian Era, Edwardian Era, Art Deco Era, Art Nouveau Era, & Retro Era. Read our blog post, Discovering the Eras of Jewelry to see full in depth descriptions of each of these eras. Below I have outlined the time periods for each!
Georgian Era:
Time Period: An authentic Georgian ring is considered to be a piece produced during the reigns of Kings George I-IV and (lastly) William the IV. Rings during this period crafted from 1714 to 1830 (sometimes considered up to 1837)
Victorian Era:
Time Period: The styles of the Victorian wedding ring and engagement ring were defined by the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 - 1901 and her everlasting affection for her beloved husband Albert. Victoria too had a great influence on the jewelry styles of the time, and it was her great love of diamonds that led to a revolution in diamond rings. The Victorian era is separated into three distinct times - which all have their own unique styles and history. These are the Early Victorian period, the Mid-Victorian period and the Late Victorian period.
Edwardian Era:
Time Period: Edwardian rings were crafted during the brief reign of King Edward VII which lasted from 1901 to 1910. Edwardian era jewelry is categorized by a delicate elegance and light airy feeling which seemed to capture the carefree attitudes of the day.
Art Deco Era:
Time Period: The Art Deco movement is sometimes dated to between 1920 to 1930, but its beginnings started around 1915 and continued into the 30s. While the styles of the time were in full swing between the 1920s and 1930s, and exploded in the mid-1920s thanks to the "Exposition des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes" held in 1925 in Paris, Art Deco rings may be found dated from 1915 and up to around the mid-1930s.
Art Nouveau Era:
Time Period: Art Nouveau rings were made during an extremely creative era between 1890 - 1915 which began in the Late Victorian Era and lasted through the brief Edwardian Age. This time is heavily defined by an artistic movement which emphasized designs inspired by nature as a creative protest against the Industrial Revolution.
Retro Era:
Time Period: Retro rings were created during a period in history that reflected the upheaval of World War II and dramatic changes in society. Some of the main influences on jewelry at this time were a blend of the War Effort, Hollywood, the post-Depression recovery and women's entry into the workforce. This era was from the mid-1930s to the early 1950s
As you can see the eras are separated by time period. The zeitgeist of these times heavily influenced the productions and styles of the perfect ring of the period, making each one unique to its era!
Colored Stones
Many vintage rings not only have diamonds, but also include stunning colored stones or have a center colored stone. Some of the most popular are rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and aquamarine stones. You can never have enough colored stones in your collection! My best advice is to have a colored stone to go along with every outfit!
Metals
Different eras used different metal types. For example, the Edwardian Era predominantly used gold and silver, where the Art Nouveau Era introduced and most often used Platinum. Knowing what metal you prefer for your individual style is going to make your search a lot easier! Another aspect of metal to consider is filigree. Filigree is intricate ornamental metal work usually along the sides of the setting area. Some rings have lots of filigree designs around the stones and others don’t have any! Filigree is most commonly found in rings from the Edwardian era so if your looking for filigree try narrowing your search down to that era and I think you will be pleasantly surprised at the beautiful filigree designs you’ll find!
Uniqueness
This one is simple! Nothing says unique like a one of a kind crafted ring that cant be replicated! Sometimes the rings are even engraved with dates that let you know exactly when they were made! How wonderful is that?!
Amazing Value
Today, you can spend thousands of dollars on a brand new classic style ring that is just like every other girls. Why not spend your money on a real classic beauty! Often times you also have more options if you are looking to stay within a limited budget! However, don’t be fooled shopping in thrift stores or street markets! Purchase your estate jewelry through a reputable seller. You can view our entire collection currently for sale on Etsy at VermaEstateJewels.
I hope this information has inspired you to go vintage! We look forward to helping you in your search for the perfect vintage ring!