Vintage Engagement Rings; A Special Piece of History

In recent times, couples who are ready to get engaged all have very individual tastes when it comes to choosing the ring. Many couples head straight for the high street, designer label rings that can be personalised, but only slightly. Others go the bespoke route to create a ring that is entirely unique, while still others start their search in the antique shops. The latter have jumped back in time in their search for vintage engagement rings, taking a journey through the different eras as they travel from one antique shop to the next.

Each era is filled with different stories and associated styles that can be seen through the beautiful vintage engagement rings available. The three time periods from which most antique jewellery, especially engagement rings, come are the Victorian Era, Edwardian Era, and the Art Deco Period. Victorian Era – Brilliant and Refined

The Victorian Era spans from 1835 to 1900 and was a time of peace and prosperity. Victorian rings have a very simple yet elegant style that is typically set in bands of yellow or rose gold. These vintage engagement rings are most well known for the elaborate use of diamonds and most frequently feature the "mine cut". They are usually made up of rows of diamonds with an extra facet at the bottom that allows them to lie close together. Many Victorian rings also include pearls, although it is not advised to wear these antiques on a daily basis due to the softness of the stone. The most famous event of the Victorian Era for engagement rings was when Tiffany’s released the six-prong solitaire ring that is still popular to this day.

Edwardian Era – What is Platinum?

The time period of 1900 to 1920 is classed as the Edwardian Era and was a time full of social and political changes. During this period the oxyacetylene torch was invented, allowing jewellers to begin using platinum as a metal for engagement ring bands. The durable, pretty material quickly became the leading metal in all jewellery work throughout this period. Jewellers also started enhancing their work with intricate additions such as filigree and scrollwork details on the mountings.

Art Deco Period – Full of Bold Geometrics

The Art Deco Period spanned from 1920 to 1930 and was a time full of machinery, jazz and exploration. At first, the jewellery from this period was full of geometric shapes and colourful gemstones, straying away from the styles of the Edwardian Era, but later in the period, techniques started to return to the platinum and diamond look that gave rings and other jewellery a smooth, more glittering style. In current times, the Art Deco vintage engagement rings are the most popular of the different styles.

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.