A Guide To Antique Engagement Rings

Antique engagement rings are a lovely and unique alternative to a new ring. The tradition of giving separate rings for engagement and marriage began in Victorian England.

The first DeBeers diamond minds in the late 1800s helped increase the popularity of engagement rings.

The early diamonds weren't nearly as dazzling as the rings of today. The first mine of cut diamonds was not very simple.

This improved with European cut diamonds in the early 20th century. These are also found in Art Deco circles. Diamond cutting continued to develop and grow into a genius cut that is still in use today.

Larger stones are located in the rings of Victoria. Although these diamonds do not have the clarity of newer rings, the stone is usually larger.

Rings became smaller in the early 1900s and the Great Depression. Overall, the quality of the diamond influences the price of the diamond.

Clarity is not as important in antique rings as it is in new rings. Price is more focused on demand for unique rings.

The most famous antique rings are from the Victorian Era through the 1940s. Different types, settings, and stones can be seen in the rings of each age.

The Victorian rings usually are yellow or pink gold. The stone may be a gem, but the pearls were just as common in this period.

Edwardian rings have a filigree ring style. Any of them may have Jewish or Christian designs in filigree.

The 1920s Art Deco rings are usually platinum, white gold, or silver. In these rings, bezel settings are standard.

The scene makes the smaller diamond look larger. Rings became smaller and less ornate in the 1930s and 1940s.

Platinum became less common in war years, and yellow or white gold was widely used in rings. The carvings on the shank and the settings helped to make the center stone look larger.

Where to Find Antique Engagement Rings

There are a variety of decent places to locate antique rings. Antique shops also wear jewelry. Some dealers are more knowledgeable than others about the details and value of the rings of each time.

You can get a pretty nice deal in some situations. Some retailers sell jewelry because they don't know its true worth. The ring will not be issued with a stamp. If not, get it separately assessed for protection.

Jewelers often wear antique pieces. A good jeweler would know the worth of the ring. You may not get as good a price, but you will have the peace of mind to know that you have a ring of quality.

You can obtain a diamond certificate when you purchase it from a jeweler.

Estate sales are a perfect place to find antique wedding jewelry. You may usually plan to see the items the day before the selling of the estate.

Learn about the meaning and characteristics of antique rings to help you assess the value of the ring. Scrutinize the ring before the auction so that you can determine how much you are going to bid. Knowledge can be found in books in the library or on the internet.

Caring for Antique Engagement Rings

Antique diamond jewelry will maintain its elegance for years if you take care of it properly. Before you buy the ring, have the jeweler check the prongs closely to make sure the stone isn't going to lose.

You don't want to risk the gem. Take your ring to the jeweler for professional cleaning and inspection once or twice a year.