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Antique Style 1/2ct Diamond Engagement Wedding Ring in 14k White Gold

January 14th, 2012 Posted in Antique Engagement Rings Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Antique Style 1/2ct Diamond Engagement Wedding Ring in 14k White Gold

  • Mounting : 14K White-Gold
  • Diamond Weight :1/2cttw.
  • Center Diamond Weight: 1/5ct
  • Diamond Color / Clarity : H-I I1-I2
  • Ships in Business Days

A beautiful diamond engagement ring that easily could have been made in the 1920′s, she will love this 14 karat white gold, 1/2 carat diamond wedding ring. This white gold ring contains 70 round brilliant diamonds with a total weight of 1/2 carat in H/I color, I1/I2 clarity. The solitaire center diamond is .20 carats. Fiery three star diamonds.

List Price: $ 1,999.00

Price: $ 599.95

Unique Antique Engagement Rings

October 24th, 2011 Posted in Antique Engagement Rings Tags: , , ,

Unique Antique Engagement Rings

“Offering” the correct engagement ring could be the next step into a more serious relationship. Even though the “ring isn’t everything”, a ring is quite a lot for most girls or women. There’s a certain difference between pink princess rings, and stylish unique antique engagement rings, and you probably understand which of them you should go for, unless your future fiancée is still stuck in a pink world!

If you’re looking for some of the most beautiful engagement rings, why not go for a unique antique engagement ring? If you’re able to put a little money into the engagement ring, you could certainly find one that is truly unique.

Remember that unique rings are more costly for a reason: they’re rarely mass-produced.

Most unique antique engagement ring sellers would say that the ring you’re looking for is totally unique, but that there are other rings that look pretty much alike. Out of that information, you should decide whether you want to go for a “unique” engagement ring that other people might also wear, or if you want to go up to a higher price range, and get something truly unique.

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Another factor you should consider is whether you’re looking for a real antique ring, or just a ring that looks “antique-ish”. Some of the most expensive rings are quite old, but still in a great shape and look marvelous.

However, these often cost quite a lot more than the average man or woman can afford, which is why a “fake” antique engagement ring is often more than enough. An engagement ring in itself is a symbol of love and trust.  The only question is how much love (and money) you would like to put into buying one.

You should always find a price class that fits your budget. If you’re on a very tight budget, you could always check out auction websites such as eBay and other similar sites. Very often you’ll find perfectly fine antique engagement rings for less than what they cost in a retail store.

Just remember to buy the ring from a highly trusted seller, just so you know you won’t get junk, as that wouldn’t look good in front of your fiancée’s friends! A normal tip is to use the Internet to do research about rings, and then go to a retail store to buy it.

Most jewelry stores are able to special order rings for you from trusted suppliers, and you can more easily complain to a retail store than an online seller.  However, there are a number of very reputable online dealers, also.

Keep in mind that you should have a budget, do your research, and, most definitely, know your fiancée’s ring size (!).

If you choose the right store, whether a retail or online store, you can expect to find an expert on exactly what you’re looking for: unique antique engagement rings.

Diamond Antique Style 18k White Gold Engagement Ring Setting

October 16th, 2011 Posted in Antique Engagement Rings Tags: , , , , , , ,

Diamond Antique Style 18k White Gold Engagement Ring Setting

  • Diamond carat weight: .61 carat
  • All diamonds are 100% natural
  • 18k white gold with antique style “caviar beading”
  • Accommodates a 9mm x 7mm oval cut center stone
  • Size 6.5 / 11mm widest point

This elegant antique style 18k white gold engagement ring mounting, features 82 round brilliant cut white diamonds, F color, VS2 clarity, with excellent cut and brilliance, weighing .61 carat total. This setting has caviar beading, creating an antique style effect.

List Price: $ 4,925.00

Price: $ 3,275.00

Best antique engagement rings

July 7th, 2011 Posted in Antique Engagement Rings Tags: , , ,

Best antique engagement rings

Best antique engagement rings

Antique engagement rings are a unique and beautiful alternative to a new ring. The tradition of giving separate rings for the engagement and the marriage started in Victorian England. The first DeBeers diamond minds in the late 1800s helped increase the popularity of engagement rings.

The earliest diamonds were not nearly as brilliant as today’s rings. The first mine cut diamonds were not very clear. This improved in the early 20th century with the European cut diamonds. These are often found in rings from the Art Deco period. Diamond cutting continued to improve and evolve into the brilliant cut that is still used today.

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Larger stones are found in Victorian rings. While these diamonds don’t have the clarity of newer rings, the stone is generally larger. Rings became smaller throughout the early 1900s and into the Great Depression. Overall, the quality of the diamond affects the price. Clarity isn’t as important in antique rings as it is in new ones. The value depends more on the demand for specific rings.

The most popular vintage rings are from the Victorian Era through the 1940s. Distinct styles, settings and stones can be seen in rings from each period. Victorian rings are generally yellow or rose colored gold. The stone can be a diamond, but pearls were just as common in this time period. Edwardian rings have a filigree design in the rings. Some may have Jewish or Christian designs in the filigree.

Art Deco rings of the 1920s are generally platinum, white gold or silver. Bezel settings are common in these rings. The setting makes the smaller diamond appear larger. Rings became smaller and less ornate in the 1930s and 1940s. Platinum became less common during the war years and yellow or white gold was commonly used in rings. Carvings on the shank and settings helped make the center stone appear larger.
 
Where to Find Antique Engagement Rings

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There are several good places to find antique rings. Antique stores often carry jewelry. Some dealers are more knowledgeable than others about the details and value of rings from each period. In some cases, you ca get a really good deal. Some stores under sell jewelry because they don’t know its true value. The ring may not come with a certificate. If not, have it independently appraised for insurance.

Jewelers sometimes carry vintage pieces. A good jeweler will be knowledgeable about the value of the ring. You may not get as good a deal, but will have the peace of mind of knowing that you have a quality ring. You will be given a certificate for the diamond when you buy from a jeweler.

Estate sales are a good place to find antique wedding jewelry. You can usually arrange to view the items the day before the estate sale. Read about the value and characteristics of antique rings to help determine the value of the ring. Inspect the ring carefully before the sale to decide how high you will bid. You can find information in books at the library or on the internet.
 
Caring for Antique Engagement Rings
 
Antique diamond jewelry will retain its beauty for years, if you care for it properly. Before you purchase the ring, have the jeweler inspect the prongs carefully to be sure the stone won’t come loose. You don’t want to lose your diamond. Take the ring to the jeweler for professional cleaning and inspection once or twice a year.

The Different Styles Used for Making Antique Engagement Rings

The Different Styles Used for Making Antique Engagement Rings

An antique engagement ring is a best gift anyone can give to their beloved. It has an intrinsic charm, beauty and uniqueness. Generally antique engagement rings are cheaper, have better craftsmanship than modern rings and generally considered heirlooms. Hence, they are the best gifts that can be given. 

Antique engagement rings are usually more than 50 years old. They are also known as vintage engagement rings and jewelers instantly know that the buyer is asking for any ring before the year 1950. The different styles used for making the rings were as follows;

Victorian antique engagement rings are the rings that date back to period from 1835 to 1900. They were often set in yellow or rose red gold. They had simple, elegant and delicate designs which included flowers, bows, hearts and birds. Victorian rings also included diamonds. During that period the diamond mines of South Africa were discovered newly and hence diamonds were available in plenty. Rows of diamonds with an extra facet cut were often used in making the engagement rings. For example, one of the classic Victorian style engagement rings is the Tiffany six- pronged diamond ring which was made in the year 1886. The Victorian rings also had pearls included in them. However, it is recommended that these rings are not for everyday use.

Edwardian engagement rings date back to the period from 1900 to 1920. Platinum was extensively used in making jewellery during this era. Light and soft designs were used during this period. Exotic laces, piercing shapes, scroll work, filigree work and graining was used by jewelers to adorn the mountings of the rings. Rose cut diamonds were in vogue and so were sapphires. These precious stones were used in abundance in the Edwardian era.

Art Deco engagement rings existed in the period from 1920 to 1930. During these years, machinery had been introduced. Jazz, exploring different designs and patterns, and exquisiteness were of foremost importance. References to the Egyptian, Asian and Native American styles were made to create these master pieces. They had a bit of charm from the Edwardian era. However, multi colored gemstones, platinum and diamonds were used to create a sparkling and well lined look. The shift from soft colors to bold ones with straight and clear lines was visible during this era. Even today, Art Deco rings re the most popular of the vintage engagement rings.

Art Nouveau rings had a drift toward the fashion trends. The era saw the personification of art for art’s sake and nothing else.

Antique engagement rings can be found at many different places namely jewelers, antique stores, pawn shops, estate sales, and online web site auctions. Antique jewellery pieces can be found at reputed shops and hence buyers should be cautious of fraudulent pieces. Buyers are recommended to ask for valid bills and descriptions including age, size, condition, color, clarity, cut and carat. Some tips to be remembered while buying and maintaining rings are as follows;

* Precious stones should be checked for cracks and splits as softer stones such as emerald, pearl, etc can be easily damaged.
* Authenticity of the ring should be checked.
* Cleaning of antique engagement rings must be done very gently. Mild soaps and tepid water can be used for the same.

Couples from all around the world opt for these rings as antique engagement rings have gained a lot of popularity and prominence.

An Antique Engagement Ring Provides an Instant Family Heirloom

An Antique Engagement Ring Provides an Instant Family Heirloom

Searching for the perfect engagement ring for your girlfriend? Is she “that” one-in-a-million, deserving something that is as unique as she is? Perhaps an antique engagement ring is just what you need for that special moment when you “pop the question”. The gift of an antique engagement ring will say, with quiet subtlety, that she is the one for you, unique above all others. It will say that she is the one that you have been waiting your lifetime to find. Antique engagement rings typically refer to a ring that is over 50 years old. They are typically less expensive and yet, the craftsmanship is often much better than rings made today. An added bonus, it becomes an instant family heirloom for generations to follow. When searching for a unique antique engagement ring or “vintage engagement ring” as they are often called, request to see rings made prior to 1950.

Most Popular Eras of the Antique Engagement Ring

There are three widely recognized eras in antique engagement rings, the Victorian, the Edwardian and the Art Deco. It is best to be an informed shopper when buying antique jewelry. The Victorian period is classified between the years of 1835-1900. These rings are made of yellow or rose gold and vary from simple to elaborate designs. It wasn’t until 1886 that the classic style called the “Tiffany” was introduced. The Edwardian era generally refers to the 1900-1920’s. During this era, platinum became a popular metal choice, often set with rose cut diamonds or sapphires. It was also during this time that the use of delicate scrollwork, milgraining and filigree details gained in popularity. Art Deco began in the 1920-1930’s, an exotic and exciting time in the history of the United States and this is reflected in the jewelry and art created during this time span. The rings of this era have a wide variety of themes ranging from the Egyptian, Asian and the Native American cultures. Many contain a variety of contrasting gemstones in one setting. At the conclusion of the era, a diamond encrusted platinum setting boasting a multitude of diamonds became extremely popular. The Art Deco antique engagement ring is currently the most popular choice for newly engaged couples.

Become an Educated Shopper

It is a true fashion statement when a young couple purchases an antique engagement ring. However, it is important that they not do so without observing caution, as there is a considerable amount of information one must know prior to making a final purchase. Be cautious when buying a ring that contains a soft stone such as a pearl, emerald or opal, which may have internal damage that is not visible to the naked eye. Also, these stones will not hold up as well as a diamond for the intense damage that may occur from day-to-day wear. In addition, it is important to look closely at the craftsmanship of the antique engagement ring to insure that it is genuine and not a poor replica. In addition, if you are purchasing your ring on a budget, consider looking specifically at each ring band as many are designed to make a smaller diamond appear larger in size. When purchasing, look carefully at the written description of the piece, making sure that the details including condition, color, clarity, cut, carat, age and size are clearly stated and if possible, ask for a gemologists report. It is important to make educated decisions when buying an antique engagement ring, as it will be a significant statement on your big day.

For more information from Brian Welsch about Antique Engagement Rings check www.ringsforengagement.com