Miss Estelle

by cherrypatter

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.

by gemteck1

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