Vintage rings are unique and perfect heirloom pieces. Anyone who buys a vintage ring for a gift not only gives importance to the recipient of the gift, but also invests serious amount of time to find an exceptional piece of authentic jewellery. When searching for a vintage engagement ring, several factors must be considered.
Types of Vintage Rings
• Victorian Era (1835-1900)
Most rings from this era were set in yellow or rose gold with delicate enamel, symbolic designs, and intricate engraving. For example, engagement rings were embellished with snakes, representing eternity and freedom. Other adornments include nature-inspired designs, such as thick branches and flowing flowers. In Singapore, Ling Jewellery has special engagement rings such as these for a unique piece to last a lifetime. Pearls, sapphire, rubies, topazes, amethysts, and emeralds are the most popular gems used with these rings.
• Edwardian Era (1900-1920)
During this era was when the oxyacetylene torch was invented, making platinum the vogue material for wedding rings. Jewellers created pierced and lacey shapes, filigree detail, scrollwork and milgrain on the mounting. Aside from rose-cut diamonds, sapphires were also a hit during the Edwardian Era.
• Art Deco Rings (1920-1930)
This time was the era of machinery, exoticism, and exploration. Art deco rings reflect the era with streamlined look. The early art deco designs feature an Edwardian style with colourful, contrasting gems; and then went to a platinum diamond-studded look for a brilliantly streamlined design.
Things to Know About Vintage Engagement Rings
• Craftsmanship
Carefully examine the ring’s craftsmanship. If you’re paying for a modern jeweller to copy an Edwardian ring, you’d end up spending much more than what you’d pay for an authentic vintage ring. Going for a replica might be an easy way, but it won’t definitely match the quality and character of a genuine antique ring.
• Unusual Center Stone
While diamonds are currently the most popular gemstone for modern engagement rings, there are also other equally beautiful center stone options. However be careful with these stones, such as pearls, opal, and emerald, as they are softer and may have existing internal crack or may be easily damaged.
• Diamond Quality
Keep in mind that today’s standard quality don’t necessarily apply to vintage diamonds; while the whitest crystal is considered the best diamond, people from the past searched for slightly green, yellow, or rose diamonds. Likewise, the methods of cutting were different and the ability to see flaws was not as advanced.
• Setting
If you’re on a budget, but want the luxurious look of a bigger diamond, consider a vintage ring from the 1930s or 1940s. The gemstones in these rings were often set in an elaborately carved setting, making the diamond appear larger.
How to Buy a Vintage Ring?
When you have decided to go for authentic vintage jewellery, read carefully the description of the antique piece. Make sure the jeweller will give you a complete description of the vintage proposal ring in writing, including details like the size, age, condition, carat, cut, clarity, and colour of the ring. As with any valuable purchase, don’t hesitate to ask any question you have in mind before handing over the check. And most importantly, don’t forget to inquire about the return policy, should you be unhappy with the wedding ring.
You can find vintage jewelleries online and at a variety of places here in Singapore. However, for novice buyers, we advise to stick to antique jewellery specialists; they can provide you with relevant information and guide you in making the best purchase.
A vintage ring as an engagement ring can be very romantic. Because of the age and classic beauty of an antique wedding ring, it symbolizes stability and timelessness, which conveys a very powerful message about the love you have for your beloved.
