Antique & Vintage Engagement Rings

Vintage Engagement Rings: Styles of the Past

Victorian Era

Our custom vintage engagement rings are inspired by a wide range of styles. We take inspiration from the Victorian era, which saw the popularity of jewellery made famous by Queen Victoria’s mourning for her husband. This period’s gold and jet blacks lend many different vintage rings the timeless look you now love.

Towards the end of this era, diamond mines were discovered in South Africa, which led to the creation of the vintage solitaire engagement rings. At the time, society was going through the beginnings of an industrial revolution. The themes present in Victorian jewellery capture that feeling.

When we craft a ring inspired by the Victorian era, we often use gold and black and solitaire diamonds for a stunning, unique vintage ring that can’t be found from any other era.

Edwardian Era

The beginnings of the Edwardian era saw the rise of platinum in jewellery, which remains popular even today. Jewellery from this period relied heavily on the strength that platinum provides.

This means that these vintage engagement rings are incredibly delicate and light. In addition, these pieces featured as many diamonds as possible. Some of these designs also used sapphires, aquamarines, and green demantoid garnets.

Additionally, a new type of decorative enhancement called “milgraining” was used extensively during this period. Milgraining involves a small border of platinum beads set around the edges of a piece of jewellery that adds a soft, elegant look.

The vintage engagement rings we craft, inspired by the Edwardian era, are incredibly delicate and light. With the aid of modern technology, we can make these delicate, airy rings even more delicate and beautiful.

Art Nouveau Period

The Art Nouveau period was an artistic revolt against the technologies created in the industrial age. The rings that came from this time were always hand-crafted and creatively designed. These vintage engagement rings captured the essence of the female form.

Instead of using diamonds as centerpieces, these rings used moonstones, opal, and agate. When diamonds were used, it was as an accent. Many Japanese themes, such as nature, birds, and dragons, were also commonly used.

The most crucial technique to emerge from this time was enamelling. This art was truly perfected and often used “plique a jour, ” which resulted in a stained-glass-like effect.

Art Deco Era

The Art Deco era came about as a result of World War I. Women were needed to take over men’s roles and gained increased independence through the right to vote. This new independence ushered in a new attitude that was reflected in the jewellery created at the time.

Art Deco-era engagement ring emphasizes bold, geometric designs. Straight lines in both rings and gemstones were often used. Calibre-cut sapphires, rubies, and emeralds were used to add splashes of colour. Black onyx and red coral were often used to accentuate colours. White gold & rose gold were also used heavily.

The custom vintage engagement rings we create that are inspired by the era feature the common straight, clean lines. We use gorgeous cuts on sapphires, rubies, and emeralds to fully represent the themes of the time.

Retro Era

Hollywood and its glamour began the influence of retro jewellery. It is big, bold, and three-dimensional. Large emerald-cut semi-precious gemstones were the stars of the era. In particular, amethyst, aquamarine, and citrine were used.

They were often accented by smaller diamonds, rubies, and sapphires. Due to a shortage of platinum brought on by World War II, gold became the metal of choice.

Retro-inspired vintage engagement rings we create are bold and bigger than life. We use big gemstones to create a powerful impact, all supported by gorgeous, flowing gold halo bands.

Whatever era you love, you’re sure to find a vintage engagement ring that inspires your confidence. Contact us now to see our selection of vintage-style engagement rings, or start creating your own custom engagement ring.