The Ultimate Guide to Buying Vintage Engagement Rings

Some of today’s trendiest engagement rings are antique, vintage or retro designs. Whether you’re opting for a genuine vintage ring or a modern style that’s inspired by vintage designs, it’s helpful to understand key features for these rings.

What are Vintage Engagement Rings?

Vintage engagement rings are rings which are at least 20 years old.

The history of engagement rings spans centuries, with people wearing this meaningful jewelry around the world. Each decade has seen its own styles and popular designs.

Today, the selections of vintage engagement rings often include Victorian, Art Deco, and more recent 20th century designs.

Vintage vs. Antique Engagement Rings

Technically, the term “vintage” only applies to items between 20 and 99 years old and the term “antique” applies to anything that’s at least 100 years old. But when it comes to vintage engagement rings, the term typically applies to everything from the Edwardian era to the more recent 1990s. People in search of antique engagement rings from older centuries may find their fit in vintage designs, but exact options vary.

Key Features of Antique, Retro and Vintage Engagement Rings

There are many vintage jewelry design periods that echoed the prevailing artistic or social movements of their days. These designs are also reflected in retro, vintage and antique engagement rings.