Antique & Vintage Engagement Ring Styles
Antique and vintage engagement rings are our specialty. Below is how each era actually looks on the finger — the same rings you will find in our cases.
Georgian “Engagement” Rings
The Georgian period, like the Victorian and Edwardian periods, derives its name from British monarchs. Although four King Georges (plus William IV) reigned from 1714 until 1837, antique jewelry usually refers to Georges III & IV (1811–1830) plus William IV. Georgian diamond rings were not intended as engagement rings. They are the oldest and rarest and, due to their age and delicacy, do not lend themselves well for everyday wear. They most often are crafted in silver over gold, utilizing primitively fashioned rose-cut diamonds, often backed with reflective foil in closed-backed settings.
Victorian Engagement Rings
Queen Victoria reigned from 1837 until 1901. Victorian engagement rings are most often yellow or rosy-yellow gold, and less frequently silver over gold. Although Victorian jewelry is known for opulent detail, engagement rings from this period are generally understated: solitaire diamond styles and five-stone band or carved rings.
Edwardian Engagement Rings
Platinum filigree, millegrain, and old European-cut diamonds define the most romantic antique engagement rings. They are durable enough for daily wear in a way Georgian jewels are not.
Art Deco Engagement Rings
These are the most popular and enduring designs in vintage engagement rings. The Art Deco period started in the early 1920s and flourished up to World War II. Platinum and white gold reigned supreme, with bold geometric lines and intricate ornamentation.
Mid-Century Engagement Rings
In the post-war years through the 1960s, the tailored diamond solitaire came into vogue and wedding-set combinations made their appearance. Nothing is more iconic from this era than a center diamond flanked by baguettes.
