Vintage Engagement Rings

Discover our ever-growing collection of vintage and antique engagement rings, including Victorian engagement ringsArt Deco engagement rings, antique white gold rings, vintage wedding rings, and more. We stock pieces from every era to suit a range of budgets and tastes. We offer complimentary ring sizing, free and fully insured worldwide shipping, and interest free finance for UK customers.

Vintage Diamond Engagement Rings | Vintage Emerald Engagement Rings | Antique Opal Engagement Rings | Vintage Ruby Engagement Rings | Vintage Sapphire Engagement Rings | Vintage Wedding Rings | Classic Engagement Rings | Unique Engagement Rings | Vintage Cluster Engagement Rings

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What is considered a vintage style engagement ring?

Vintage engagement rings are usually at least 20 years old, while antique engagement rings are often at least 100 years old. A “vintage style” engagement ring is a modern piece created in an old style. 

How can you tell if a vintage ring is real?

There are some clear tells of whether vintage engagement rings are real or not. If the ring doesn’t have hallmarks for stamps – and not all vintage and antique jewellery does – has the metal been tested by an industry standard metal analyser? Does the ring come with an independent report from a reputable lab confirming that the gemstones are natural? H3: What engagement ring holds the most value?

Colourless diamonds are generally considered the most valuable. It’s important to note that while no diamond is perfect, some aren’t far off.

Why buy antique engagement rings?

Vintage engagement rings are perfect  if you’re after something  unique that will stand the test of time. In addition, vintage engagement rings possess superior craftsmanship to factory made modern equivalents. .

How do you date a vintage engagement ring?

When dating  vintage engagement rings, we note the cut of the gems, the composition of the alloy, and the style of the piece. Engraved or bright-cut shoulders were   prevalent during the  Victorian period, for example. During the Edwardian period and early Art Deco period, we examine the quality of the milgraining (the tiny beads of metal typically on an edge or border) to ascertain the ring’s age.   

Do all vintage engagement rings have hallmarks?

No. In fact, most do not. Before 1973, jewellers were only required to hallmark wedding and mourning rings. 

How much should I spend on an engagement ring?

When purchasing vintage engagement rings, you may want to follow the Golden Rule which decrees that a gentlemen should  save at least three months’ salary. But this rule is – understandably – often ignored. 

What was the first  engagement ring?

In 1477, Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissioned a diamond engagement ring for his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy. This is thought to be the first “modern” engagement ring. Looking further back, it was an ancient Roman custom for wives to wear rings to indicate their husbands ownership.   

What engagement rings were popular in the 1980s?

The concept of wearing antique engagement rings saw its first real boost in the 80s. The styles that were popular then – diamond clusters and sapphire clusters, often in yellow gold – could be found, often with superior gems, from bygone eras.  

Does a woman wear her engagement ring after marriage?

On the day of the wedding ceremony, the engagement ring is either worn on the right hand or entrusted to the care of the bridesmaid. This is done so the wedding ring can be placed on the left hand. After this, the engagement ring is worn on top of the band.  

What style of antique engagement ring is timeless?

Antique engagement rings can be found in a number of styles so getting it right is important. Classic solitaire rings are timeless, as are diamonds.