Ah, vintage engagement rings. What better way to capture the spirit of your favorite bygone era? Too bad you'll have to pay big bucks for these rare classics. But there is another option. Vintage-inspired engagement rings are more affordable, modern creations designed to look authentic. But which style is right for you? We're glad you asked.
History's Most Popular Types Of Engagement Rings
Vintage-inspired rings are designed to evoke the glamor and fashion of eras past. The most popular vintage designs are rooted in four eras: Victorian (1835-1900), Edwardian (1900-1915), Art Deco (1915-1935), and Retro or Post-War (1935-1950). Some even combine elements from more than one era to create uniquely beautiful vintage-inspired engagement rings.
What To Look For In A Vintage-Style Engagement Ring
If you're considering a vintage-style engagement ring, keep a few things in mind. First, you'll need to decide which kind of vintage-inspired design you prefer. There are several eras to choose from, and each has its own distinctive look and feel. Do you love the elegance of the Art Deco era? Do you gravitate to the simplicity of mid-century design? Or are you drawn to the romanticism of Victorian-style rings? Once you've decided on a general style, you can narrow down your options.
Victorian Rings
The Victorian age is associated with luxury and grandeur. This was reflected in the jewelry that was most popular during the period. Vintage-inspired Victorian rings are often large and ornate, with a variety of different metals and gemstones used in their designs.
Victorian-style engagement rings are true statement pieces that can be found in a range of styles. If you're looking for a vintage-inspired ring with a unique look, a Victorian-inspired design is something to consider.
Edwardian Rings
The Edwardian era was a period of significant change, and this was reflected in the beautiful jewelry of the time. Rings from this era were often ornate with many intricate details. They were also generally made of gold, which was the coveted metal during this time.
One of the most popular vintage-inspired Edwardian rings is the cluster engagement ring. These pieces usually have a center focal stone surrounded by smaller accent stones. This style was trendy during the Edwardian era because it was a fashionable way to show off wealth.
Another popular Edwardian style is the eternity ring, which includes a continuous band of diamonds, symbolizing ceaseless love. These dazzling pieces were often given as engagement or wedding rings and are still quite popular today.
Art Deco Engagement Rings
This vintage-inspired style has seen a significant resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to popular movies and shows, such as “The Great Gatsby” and “Downton Abbey.” If you're drawn to the elegance and glamor of the Art Deco Era, this style of vintage-inspired ring may be the perfect choice for you.
Popular in the 1920s and 1930s, Art Deco is characterized by bold colors and a streamlined look. One of the defining features of the style is the artful use of geometric shapes. This could be anything from a glittering triangle-shaped accent stone to an eye-catching square-cut center diamond.
Retro & Post-War Rings
Growing popular in the 1940s and 1950s, Retro and Post-War rings were quite simple yet beautiful. Usually made of platinum or gold, they featured one center diamond or a cluster of smaller diamonds. After the struggles of WWII, they were the perfect symbol for fresh beginnings and a new chapter in life. If you're considering a vintage-inspired engagement ring that's understated, a Post-War ring is a nice option. It will be timeless and beautiful, just like your love.
Today, you don't have to buy vintage rings to get designs from days past. When it comes to vintage-inspired designs, Helzberg Diamonds has plenty of stunning options that evoke these classic styles. Consult our engagement ring buying guide, shop every available style, or create your own personalized expression of love.
