Today, on Redhead Mom, I’m sharing a partnered guest post about choosing the perfect vintage engagement ring.
If you’re someone who adores timeless elegance and unique elements in your jewelry, chances are you’re considering a vintage-inspired ring for your engagement.
Choosing the perfect one can feel daunting, however, the variety of vintage engagement rings ensures you’ll find a style you love. Whether it’s a Victorian-inspired five-stone diamond ring or an Art Deco band featuring a dazzling emerald, we’ve offered some useful advice to help guide you through the process.
Shop with reputable retailers
You’ll find many shops and auctioneers offering vintage jewelry, however, you must be able to verify whether they are trustworthy. Purchasing from a reputable jeweler not only ensures you have access to the most stunning rings but also means you’ll receive top-notch guidance and advice.
Be sure to have a look at reviews online or ask for recommendations from friends or family who have recently celebrated their nuptials.
Quality is key
Never compromise on quality when it comes to something you’ll be treasuring for the rest of your life. You want it to look just as special in ten years’ time as it does in this very moment.
Focus on weighty pieces constructed from high-quality and durable materials, such as platinum or 18-karat gold. This will be the determiner as to whether you’ve gone for a ring with years of endurance or a piece of costume jewelry.
If the ring features diamonds or other gemstones, don’t be afraid to ask for certification from reputable labs like the GIA. Additionally, ensure any precious metals have been tested for purity and there are appropriate hallmarks or stamps on the band.
Vintage vs antique
Generally, vintage rings refer to those inspired by trends from the last 50 years, whereas antique rings are based on trends from at least 100 years ago. Keeping this in mind, it’s now time for you to decide which era is a true reflection of your style.
For example, Victorian rings typically feature clusters or rows of diamonds and are mostly made from yellow gold or rose gold, whereas Edwardian rings consist of intricate, lacy designs.
In contrast to these, Art Deco rings are all about bold geometry and patterns, featuring sharp angles and milgrain. These have seen a resurgence in popularity due to their individuality and striking appearances. In addition, Retro Era rings are also a solid choice due to their simplicity, generally comprised of a centre diamond or baguette side stones and a band made of yellow or rose gold.