Engagement Rings From The Past

Posted on August 22, 2009
Filed Under Fashion | 1 Comment

by George C.Baycan

In the space between timeless traditions and relatively newer fashions lies the range of the vintage engagement rings. While not yet antiques they are never the less unique in their own features, making these engagement rings from the early 1900s to the late 1970 and 80’s vintage and classic.

One feature that is common to most vintage engagement rings is the use of both white gold and yellow gold in the settings and on the bands. Platinum is also used in these types of rings, often with very ornate bands and embellishments to the rings.

Narrow bands at the back widening to larger settings at the front of the engagement rings from this time period are very common. Generally if the band is two tone, the white gold will be located on the front of the ring to provide reflection for the diamonds and add to the overall design. Mountings and settings were commonly done in white gold during the early 1900s and continue to be very popular.

Many vintage engagement rings feature groups of small, medium or average sized diamonds rather than one large solitaire. The different sizes and shapes of diamonds in the setting help with light reflection and really sparkle with the ring is turned with normal movement. In addition other gems may be included in the setting, dropping bits of bright color onto the central diamonds.

For those vintage rings with a single, larger diamond a cushion cut diamond is very popular. Engagement rings with this type of diamond cut tend to be simple yet elegant and true classics. Cushion cut diamonds can be oval to rectangular in shape and provide a softer overall appearance to the ring than round or princess cuts.

Historically the name for cushion cut diamonds was candlelight diamonds. This is because lighting was from candles and the beautiful cut of the diamond gives off a soft, firely glow in any type of direct or diffuse light. Typically shapes for the cushion cut diamonds include oval to rectangular with rounded or blunted corners.

Open, long facets on many of the diamonds on older engagement rings give a unique light reflection to the interior. The colors are still vibrant and there is fire, it is just less sharp. Many people see these types of cuts as very romantic looking and may be enhanced on the band with smaller diamonds.

Looking through estate sales or selecting jewelers that offer replicas of vintage engagement rings may provide you with some options you hadn’t previously considered. The detail in these rings really makes them unique and different from modern engagement rings.

About the Author:
George C. Baycan of San Francisco based Simayof Jewelershas 7 years experience in the jewelry industry in management and marketing consultant positions. He specializes in Engagement Rings and Diamonds.

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One Response to “Engagement Rings From The Past”

  1. Antique White Gold » Engagement Rings From The Past : CVN Today on August 22nd, 2009 1:40 pm

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