Are you planning on buying an engagement ring? Finding the perfect ring can be a challenge, but make no mistake; an engagement ring is one of the more significant purchases you will make in your lifetime.

How To Buy Vintage and Antique Engagement Rings

Today more and more people are choosing vintage and antique engagement rings, over their more modern counterparts. If you’re looking for an engagement ring that is unique you might consider one yourself.

Let’s take a look at some things you should consider before choosing the perfect ring.

Consider Rings from Different Time Periods

First and foremost let’s define antique jewelry. Antique jewelry is not necessarily estate jewelry. Estate jewelry simply means it has been previously owned.

Antique jewelry on the other hand would be defined as over 50 years old. There are several styles that are in vogue like Victorian (1835-1900), Edwardian (1900-1920), and Art Deco (1920-1930) all of which relate to a period of time.

Victorian rings are often set in yellow gold; perhaps rose gold, and designs can be simple to very intricate. Some Victorian rings may be accented with other stones including pearls. Rings from this period also featured a mine cut, which includes an extra row of diamonds at the bottom of the stone.

Edwardian period rings often have rose cut diamonds and brilliant sapphires offering a beautiful contrast and attention grabbing eye appeal often with beautiful scrollwork on the setting.

Art Deco engagement rings are among the most popular of all antique engagement rings. Art Deco rings are generally colorful, set with contrasting gemstones in platinum settings or rose gold and often have geometrical looks and influences from Asian and Egyptian artisans.

Where To Buy Antique Engagement Rings

Antique engagement rings can be found at a variety of places including antique stores, jewelers, estate sales, pawn shops and online. As with most items you purchase these days it’s buyer beware. Make sure that you get a complete description of the piece, including its age, size, condition and of course the four C’s. Color, carat, clarity, and cut.

Antique rings will have stones that were cut by hand and have an unusual more unique appearance. The clearer the stone, the more valuable the ring will be. As for color, Antique engagement rings often come with diamonds that have yellow, green or soft pink tints.

Your ring should be one-of-a-kind. Online vendors will provide detailed descriptions and high-resolution pictures of rings for you to consider before purchasing.

Reputable dealers will always offer a certified gemologist report for you. In many case multiple reports. Always ask about a return policy in the event you become unhappy with your purchase.

Finally, as much as you would like to buy an antique engagement ring on your own and surprise your spouse to be, you may want to consider shopping for that all-important purchase with her. This will make sure she really loves the ring you buy for her.