An antique engagement ring can be a unique and heart felt way to express your commitment. However, you should be aware that most vintage engagement rings do not have diamonds. This is because much vintage jewelry, including Victorian jewelry, included engagement rings that had the woman’s birthstone, or a stone she especially liked. Diamonds worn on the hand to express engagement, whether cut marquise, princess or emerald, are a relatively recent development. However, if you are one with a flair for the unique, an antique engagement ring with a different gemstone can be a very sentimental gift.
Antique engagement rings
To be an antique, something must be at least 80 years old. Vintage is merely something that comes from another time, and can be as young as 20 years old. Either way, older jewelry can be a great gift, as it can be more personal. Victorian era jewelry, which includes antique engagement rings, can provide a wealth of ideas for the savvy shopper. Because Queen Victoria ruled England for so long, Victorian jewelry actually comes in a variety of styles. However, marquise cut gems are perhaps among the most attractive.
When you choose to give an older engagement ring, you should have a reason for giving it. One of the most popular reasons is that it is a family heirloom. Many women treasure the engagement rings given them by their significant others when they have been passed down from grandmothers or great-grandmothers. The fact that a man’s family is willing to let the newest member have such a piece of family history speaks volumes about how accepted and cherished she will be.
If you like the older styles, but do not have the heirlooms to pass on, it is possible to purchase a ring at an antique jeweler or pawn shop. However, you should be sure that the woman likes antiques, and would like such a ring. An engagement ring with a different gemstone can make a great conversation piece, and set a woman apart from her peers, as anyone can get a diamond. Additionally, the older style is unique and often it speaks for itself. So, if you are looking for a truly unique ring, you might consider an antique engagement ring.