All You Need to Know for Art Deco-Inspired Vintage Engagement Rings

We all know that vintage engagement rings include a wide variety of styles and influences, from the Victorians to the Edwardians, but the increasingly popular period for such historical pieces is the Art Deco era.

Vintage engagement jewellery from this period have become a popular choice for couples looking for something more unique and with character. This artistic design period is based around the exuberance of the 1920s and reflects a feeling of optimism, a post-World War I celebration, of the new ‘modern’ age. The surge of social freedoms and modern technological development that led to increased travel and exploration of new horizons is boldly captured in the designs of this era. As a result, many of the daring designs included Egyptian, African, Oriental and American Indian symbols and patterns.

Many gemstones and materials were experimented with during this particular period. In particular, white gold and sterling silver dominated the designs, while yellow gold was relegated to the sidelines. Colourful gemstones and diamond solitaires were also very popular, featuring prominently in engagement rings. It was the Art Deco diamond rings, though, that achieved the most success, framed as they were by beautiful handcrafted geometric metalwork. In addition to diamonds, gemstones such as emeralds, sapphires, jade, black onyx, crystal and rubies also proved to be very popular. The most common cuts for such engagement rings were round diamonds in Old European cuts, although baguettes and emerald cut diamonds and gemstones were also used, which blended perfectly with the geometric designs.

Original rings from this period were crafted with the highest standards in mind, with exquisite attention to detail, both inside and out. However, finding a genuine ring from the 1920s can be difficult and when shopping for vintage engagement rings, you should be aware that during this period, some styles became so popular that they were mass produced using low quality stones and poor workmanship. While such rings may have historical value, they do not have much monetary value, and buyers should be careful about how much they pay for rings without a maker’s mark and hallmark stamp. Similarly, be careful not to buy a replica engagement ring, as many reproductions were made during the huge revival of Art Deco rings in the 1980s.

Selecting an Art Deco ring is a bold and individual choice, where the dominance of colourful geometric patterns and exotic shapes makes for eye-catching vintage engagement rings and completely contrasts to the pale, delicate Edwardian period designs. Just make sure you’re getting an authentic ring for your money.

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.