What You Need to Know about Edwardian Style Vintage Engagement Rings

The Edwardian period is commonly referred to as the ‘beautiful era’, which perhaps best describes Edwardian-style vintage engagement rings. Although these beautiful vintage rings can sometimes be hard to find, they are well worth that extra effort.

Antique Edwardian rings were created during the brief reign of Edward VII, who reigned from 1901 until 1910, although the Edwardian period is considered to continue through to World War One. The jewellery of the period was characterised by a delicate elegance, and it was during this period that the famous filigree ring made its debut.

Among such vintage engagement rings, you can expect traditional and intricate patterns, which usually include some type of fragile lattice pattern that was often engraved into the entire band, as well as the crown. Other popular patterns and styles included bows, ribbons, the moon, stars, scrolls and hearts, and thanks to Queen Alexandra’s love and admiration of flowers, floral themes also made regular appearances in Edwardian jewellery.

Due to its durability and the fact that the settings could be made ‘invisible’, the most commonly used metal to create Edwardian style engagement rings was platinum, which became readily available during this period. Many jewellers also used a platinum-gold combination, with white gold also beginning to make an appearance. Pearls and diamonds were the most common gems -- the white-on-white look was very popular – and large diamonds were especially popular. As a result, Edwardian vintage engagement rings often produce the stunning effect of being delicate and fragile while cradling large diamonds. In addition to diamonds and pearls, popular gemstones included opals, moonstones and mother of pearl, as well as more colourful gemstones such as amethysts, sapphires – particularly pink sapphires – and emeralds.

While searching for such beautiful vintage engagement rings, you should keep in mind that Edwardian engagement rings are not available everywhere and can be very difficult to find locally. When you are looking at Edwardian rings, you should make sure of the condition of the ring, as it can severely affect the value, but a lot of Edwardian rings are in good condition, so this shouldn’t be a problem. Due to the popularity of Edwardian style rings, they were created well into the 1940s and 1950s and are, even now, still being replicated. So it is possible to buy a vintage Edward style engagement ring that was not produced during the Edwardian years; if this matters to you, you should take care to check the date of the ring’s manufacture.

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.