Romance is often linked with vintage engagement rings, as the thought of wearing a ring with its own history can be incredibly captivating. The allure of pre-loved rings lies not only in their unique character but also in the fact that you may not find such charm in a brand-new gemstone. However, navigating the world of vintage engagement ring shopping can be overwhelming.
Unless you’re fortunate enough to receive an heirloom piece as a gift, you’ll need to embark on your own treasure hunt for a period piece. That’s where we come in! We’ve compiled valuable insights and expert advice to guide you through the process of finding that perfect antique engagement ring.
Buying a Vintage Engagement Ring
Know the Difference Between Fine Jewellery & Costume
When browsing through antique shops or online marketplaces, it’s not uncommon to come across what appears to be vintage jewelry. However, a significant portion of this ‘vintage’ jewelry is actually costume jewelry, often made with gold-plated metal rather than solid gold, and featuring non-precious gemstones or crystal instead of rare stones. While costume jewelry can still be stunning, it’s rarely the choice for engagement rings due to its lower value and potential to deteriorate over time.
To find high-quality fine jewelry, it’s essential to specify your search terms accurately, avoiding generic terms like ‘vintage jewelry’ that may yield a mix of fine and costume pieces.
Shop in Reputable Places
While searching for the perfect antique jewellery piece, it’s essential to find a reputable dealer or online store. Unlike buying from a random seller, working with a quality jeweller provides not only a wider range of options but also expert guidance throughout the process. Before making a purchase, take the time to research local shops and read reviews from friends and fellow collectors.
Ireland is home to several exceptional antique jewellery stores, including O’Reilly’s Auction Rooms and Commins & Co., which are among our top recommendations. With a reputable dealer by your side, you’ll be able to find that unique piece that speaks to you, whether online or in-person.
Do Your Homework on Diamonds
Before embarking on a shopping trip, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research – especially when looking for a diamond ring. The Four Cs (colour, clarity, carat, and cut) should be well understood. While antique and vintage diamonds often feature old-fashioned cuts that may not maximise brilliance, their unique flaws can add character. Regardless of the type of ring you’re seeking, prior research will help manage expectations.
Take the time to familiarise yourself with your preferred era, style, or gemstone, and collect relevant images to share with your jeweller.
Get the Right Paperwork
When purchasing a ring, it’s crucial to have documentation that verifies its authenticity and quality. Ideally, this should include a gemological report and supporting paperwork such as receipts, insurance policies, and repair records. However, this may not always be feasible. In these cases, consult with your jeweller about the availability of any relevant documents they can provide.
Additionally, inquire if there is a qualified gemologist on staff who can offer an impartial evaluation of the piece, providing you with valuable insights into its characteristics and value.
Identify Styles or Stones
When it comes to searching for the perfect engagement ring or exploring jewelry options for yourself, narrowing down your choices can be a great way to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Consider taking inspiration from different eras and styles, such as Victorian or Art Deco pieces, to get a sense of what resonates with you. Alternatively, focusing on a specific gemstone, like emerald, ruby, garnet, or sapphire, can also guide your search.
Our engagement ring style guide and A-Z of gemstones feature are great resources to explore and find ideas that suit your taste. Rings from Susie Saltzman offer a wide range of options to consider.
Avoid Common Mistakes
To ensure you’re purchasing a genuine antique or vintage engagement ring, it’s crucial to differentiate it from modern replicas. For instance, the Art Deco style, which flourished from 1920 to 1935, has been imitated in many contemporary engagement rings, particularly those made during the 1970s. To avoid this common mistake, consult with the jeweller about the ring’s era or date of origin.
Additionally, when handling the piece, pay close attention to the setting’s security, especially if it features delicate stones like emeralds. Furthermore, we advise against purchasing rings featuring pearls and opals, as they may not withstand the rigors of everyday wear and tear.
Think Vintage Gemstones
If you’re not satisfied with the settings on antique engagement rings but still appreciate the idea of wearing a piece with a rich history, consider opting for a vintage stone. Many gemologists and jewellers breathe new life into old items by transforming them into unique pieces, often leaving behind unused stones that can be repurposed. For instance, One Fab Day Editor Jessica sourced a stunning Colombian emerald that was once part of an antique pair of earrings from 1860.
The original earrings were remade into a necklace, leaving the emerald untouched and damage-free – a major advantage when working with delicate gemstones like emeralds. This approach also works beautifully if you have heirloom family pieces you’d like to repurpose into a custom engagement ring. By collaborating with a bespoke jewellery designer, you can transform these treasured items into one-of-a-kind masterpieces that tell your story.
Some of our top recommendations for bespoke designers include Natasha Sherling, McCaul Goldsmiths, and Aoife O’Mahony Design.
Cast a Wide Net
When seeking a unique ring style, you may need to venture beyond the ordinary. Auctions can be a treasure trove of unusual finds and bargains. Before attending an auction, take advantage of the opportunity to try on rings in advance, ensuring a perfect fit. Additionally, don’t hesitate to consult with your local antique jeweller about specific preferences – they’ll gladly keep an eye out for you, potentially leading to the discovery of that elusive perfect ring.
