As an alternative to the contemporary engagement ring, more and more people are instead opting for vintage or antique engagement rings. There are good reasons for them choosing these rings, and some facts to give you a better idea of what these rings are about are shown here:
1. The variety of engagement ring designs is very wide, since the styles of the main eras in which these rings were created (Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Victorian an Edwardian) are very different. This means plenty of choice for buyers.
2. Popular rings in Victorian times were those which used the first letter of the name of each gemstone to spell a word. There were different versions of these including the ‘love’ ring, the ‘dearest’ ring and the ‘regards’ ring. The snake or serpent ring, worn by Queen Victoria, was another popular style, the snakes symbolising the couple.
3. The rings of the Art Nouveau period were noted for their curves and feminine style. The designers took their influences from nature and the female form. Insects, plants, faces and bodies were all popular themes at the time and gold was commonly used.
4. Edwardian rings often incorporated filigree work. This was created from strands of wire twisted and soldered then shaped to create a lace effect. The Edwardian’s favourite precious metal for rings was platinum, and the ring bands were often decorated at the edge with millegrain work.
5. In the 1920s to 1940s Art Deco engagement rings were being made. Frequently large, they used gems of contrasting colours, geometric patterns and large single or multiple stones in their settings. Rhodium, platinum and palladium all saw frequent use in these rings.
6. Major reasons for choosing antique engagement rings are the quality of the workmanship which most of the rings have, and also the top quality materials which went into them. Added to this, a lot of them are unique pieces of jewellery.
7. Good examples are not really difficult to come by, since there are specialist jewellers selling these rings online and many of these rings are quite affordable, especially vintage ones.
What you get with these rings that you don’t get from modern ones is the history attached to every ring. For those who are seeking something romantic and special, they may be just what you want.
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