Guide to Identifying Vintage Engagement Rings

Art Deco jewellery first made an appearance in the early 20th century. It became so popular that it is now referred to as the Art Deco movement, where it was once just acknowledged as a style. It emphasizes linear geometric patterns, which to the layperson means bold shapes and rich colours. The movement is often characterised by the furniture and architecture of the time, but it was also a very popular type of jewellery.

Vintage engagement rings have recently made a huge comeback in terms of popularity, and with some of these including rings from the 20s and 30s, many vintage jewellery markets have Art Deco rings in abundance. The trouble is it can be hard to tell different styles apart. This easy to follow guide will help you browse with confidence.

Colours

Art Deco is not famous for its subtlety, so keep an eye out for bright colours. You’ll often see major contrasts, such as black and white stones, or find that the ring is accented with precious and semi-precious stones. It incorporates theatrical combinations of materials and stones, such as diamonds and sapphires or pearls and onyx. In terms of metals, Art Deco vintage engagement rings were mostly platinum and silver rather than gold.

Design

If you look at jewellery from other eras, it often has delicate and soft curves to it. Art Deco will be the total opposite. It is geometrically cut, with common shapes such as triangles, baguettes, emeralds and shield cuts. Most vintage engagement rings borrow from the Art Nouveau era, (especially Art Deco) and therefore will have large stones, which are there to be noticed. More than often you will find multiple stones in such a ring, the most common being a large stone in the middle with two smaller gems on either side. These side stones will probably be even larger than the centre stones found on other rings, in order to make a larger than life statement style.

Influences

When searching for this kind of vintage engagement rings, it is helpful to know the original influences of Art Deco, as it will make the rings even more distinctive and recognisable. The movement took a lot of its style from Africa and Ancient Egypt; the mysteries of the pyramids and the opening of Tutankhamen’s tomb created a wave of Egyptian style Art Deco pieces, giving rings different symbols, designs and patterns to be inspired by. The Art Nouveau era is what influences the opulent and extravagant rings that were often worn to cocktail parties and used as conversation starters.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From learning about vintage engagement rings to the use of precious metals and coloured stones, 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.