Vintage style engagement rings

Vintage Engagement Rings

If your favorite gal loves the retro look or adores the craftsmanship and stories behind antiques, you may want to consider proposing with a vintage engagement ring. Before you start your ring shopping, however, it’s important to understand what the term “vintage” does (and doesn’t) mean in the engagement ring industry.

What Is a Vintage Engagement Ring?

The term “vintage engagement ring” doesn’t actually have a singular or standard meaning to most jewelers. In fact, it’s kind of a catchall that can be used to describe antique engagement rings or even estate rings. An antique engagement ring is any ring that was crafted over 50 years ago. An estate engagement ring is any ring that has previously been owned (but isn’t necessarily over 50 years old). In other cases, a vintage proposal ring may simply be a new ring designed in the style of an older era.

If your girlfriend wants an authentic antique ring or prefers an estate ring based on her moral values, then make sure your vintage ring isn’t actually brand new. If your love simply adores Victorian, Edwardian, or Art Deco design styles, then a new ring fashioned in a vintage style could be the perfect choice! (Take a look at these 11 Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings We Love.)

Why Your Bride Is Going to Swoon Over Her Vintage Engagement Ring

Not sure if an antique engagement ring is the right choice for your someone special? Here are a few of the biggest benefits to these timeless rings.

Price

There’s no sense in busting your wedding budget by spending your entire life savings on a ring! Vintage proposal rings are often less expensive than brand new rings, even while they can be just as beautiful.

They Have a Story

Every antique engagement ring already comes with its own unique history. That gives it a special quality no brand new ring can match. When your bride slips a vintage ring on her finger, your own story will be added to its tale.

One-of-a-Kind Craftmanship

Many antique engagement rings were handcrafted, making them truly unique in the world. Your bride will know her ring was created by a master craftsman, not a modern-day machine.

Take Care Before Buying

There are so many great reasons to buy an antique engagement ring, but a little caution is also in order. Older rings often incorporated softer stones, which don’t necessarily hold up well over time. The delicate metal filigree popular in many vintage rings may also start to fall apart. And there’s one other thing. If your girl wants some sparkle on her finger, older rings may disappoint. Craftsmen of old -- as impressive as they were -- simply didn’t have today’s laser precision to maximize shine.

If your lady loves the “look” of vintage engagement rings but doesn’t necessarily want all the work that comes with an older ring, consider buying a new ring in a vintage style.

An Instant Family Heirloom

Vintage engagement rings are sure to become an instant treasure within your family. At The Knot, we offer a wide selection of new, vintage style rings for the woman who loves timeless jewelry.