Vintage rings are incredibly popular right now, and with good reason. They’re unique, elegant, and represent specific eras that aren’t always easy to find in modern jewelry. They also tend to be more expensive than their contemporary counterparts. This is because they’re often artisanally crafted, sourced from reputable jewelers, and crafted from higher-quality materials. This makes them a special gift that’s not easily re-created by your local jeweler.

But before you go out and buy one of these gorgeous beauties, it’s important to understand the differences between a vintage-style ring and an authentic vintage piece. Some novice retailers try to capitalize on the vintage ring trend by selling rings that aren’t true vintage. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a vintage-style ring:

The Most Common Vintage Ring Style

If you’re looking for an engagement ring that’s genuinely vintage, you should know that the common setting is a single large diamond surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds. A halo is not only classic, but it also evokes an art deco feel. The halo can be accented by additional diamonds on the shoulders of the ring, or it can be highlighted by a color gemstone such as sapphire. A ring with two or three bigger diamonds, or a mixture of diamonds and colored stones also fits the bill.

A true vintage ring should also have an aged appearance, with signs of wear and tear that add to the piece’s character. Look for the ring’s metal to have a warmer hue, and don’t be afraid of a slightly uneven finish. These characteristics are a sign that the ring is genuine and not a reproduction.

Another thing to consider is that authentic vintage rings may not hold their value as well as contemporary ones. Because of this, they can be a riskier investment. However, if you’re willing to do your homework, you can find some great vintage styles at a fair price.

The Bottom Line

If your significant other loves to be a trendsetter and wants something that’s not quite as mainstream as a traditional round solitaire, a vintage ring might be just the ticket. Vintage pieces are also a great choice for those who want to celebrate their ancestry or simply love the romanticism of past eras. And of course, a vintage ring can be the perfect way to tell your girlfriend that you’re confident enough to embrace an unconventional and unique style.

However, if you’re thinking of buying a vintage ring, it’s essential to understand the difference between a true antique and a piece that’s simply vintage-inspired. While a true antique ring is over 50 years old, a vintage-inspired piece will only be 20 or 30 years old. The older the ring, the more it will cost and the less likely it is to be in excellent condition. This can make it difficult to sell the ring later on, so you’ll need to plan carefully if you decide to buy an actual vintage ring.

What Makes Vintage Rings Unique?

Vintage rings are treasured not only for their beauty, but also for the history and family heirloom value that they represent. However, what makes a ring vintage is more than just its age; it’s a combination of several design elements that make it truly timeless. These details include milgrain detailing, which is a beading effect that adds incredible detail to designs and increases the surface appearance of diamonds. This style became popular during the Art Deco period and is a common feature in these rings. Additionally, many of these designs feature a halo of diamonds around the larger center stone.

Authentic vintage rings are usually second-hand, but if you’re looking for an option that is newer than that, try browsing vintage-inspired designs. Authentic vintage engagement rings are often passed down from generation to generation, so finding one can be a great way to give a gift with significant meaning. When choosing a vintage-inspired engagement ring, look for designs that feature elements from an era that you or your intended love interest enjoy the most. For example, if you’re interested in the Art Deco period, look for bands that include geometric shapes and elongated proportions with a diamond-encrusted halo.

If you’re unable to find an authentic vintage ring or want to experience the brilliance and fire that are available in modern-cut diamonds, consider selecting a vintage-inspired engagement ring. These rings can be crafted to look just like the original designs from a specific era, but will have the durability and value of a contemporary ring.