A Guide to Georgian-Inspired Vintage Engagement Rings

If you’re leaning towards Georgian-inspired vintage engagement rings, you may soon discover that such rings are quite difficult to find. You may still, however, be keen to learn more about Georgian rings so here is everything you need to think about when considering one.

Vintage engagement rings from the Georgian period are pieces produced during the reigns of King George I - King George IV and that of William IV, which covers the earlier part of the 18th century through to the mid-19th century. It was during this time that innovation in the use of gemstones occurred, but while diamond resources were quite rare and would remain so until the middle of the Victorian period, many experimental settings and open facets were designed in the Georgian period. This allowed more light reflection in colourful gemstones and diamonds.

Rings made during this era often represented natural themes and intricate metalwork; floral and scroll motifs were typical of the period, along with ribbon work, butterflies and flowers. A keen need to preserve memories and the times of the day were reflected in very distinct and unique Georgian rings such as the memorial ring, the locket ring and the poesy ring. Gold, silver and diamonds were very scarce and expensive at the time, but when it came to gold, Georgian rings were usually crafted from 22-karat and 18-karat gold, although some were also made with silver and pinchbeck, which was a popular gold imitation of the day.

Before the 1750s all pieces were created with hand-hammered alloys, which gave the rings from this era a speckled or rough pitted look. When diamonds were used, they tended to be set in closed silver-settings with the interior of the pieces crafted in gold to protect the skin from tarnish. The most common cuts used in Georgian designs were rose-cuts and table-cuts, and rose cut diamonds often had a light piece of reflective foil beneath the diamond to enhance the brilliance and beauty of the stone.

If you are lucky enough to find one of these rare vintage engagement rings, care should be taken when wearing them, as the foil will gradually lose its effect, especially if it comes into contact with water. The best way to clean the setting is to use a soft brush and chalk powder to act as a polisher but it does take a highly skilled goldsmith to professionally replace the foil.

Due to the scarcity of diamonds, many rings in the Georgian period were made with materials that included royal blue glass, rock crystal and marcasite. A strong preference for colour was seen in the type of gemstones used, which included rubies, sapphires, emeralds, garnets, precious topaz and black onyx. Materials such as coral, mother of pearl, river pearls and shells were also frequently used.

Vintage engagement rings from the Georgian era are relatively rare, as unfortunately over the years most of them were taken apart and refitted in order to reflect the modern trends of the time. However, don’t give up hope if your heart is set on such a ring, as there are sometimes small collections at antique jewellery stores. Just be prepared to pay for quality.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From diamonds to vintage engagement rings, from a princess cut to a platinum band, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.