Jewelry Education
The History of Vintage Engagement Rings: A Beginner’s Guide
Published: Sep 12, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what makes an engagement ring “vintage,” you’re not alone. From Victorian romance to Art Deco flair, vintage engagement rings reflect the artistry and traditions of their time. Each piece tells a story—not just of design, but of enduring love.
In this guide, we’ll break down what vintage and antique really mean, explore the defining ring styles of different eras, and share what to consider if you plan on getting one for yourself.
Read on to uncover their history and get the confidence to choose a ring that’s both meaningful and timeless!
An antique engagement ring is at least 100 years old, with craftsmanship and design elements that can be traced back to the Victorian era and earlier.
A vintage engagement ring, on the other hand, typically falls between 20 and 100 years old, showcasing beloved styles from periods like Art Deco and Retro.
It’s also worth noting that an estate engagement ring refers to any pre-owned ring, regardless of how old it is. An estate ring could be antique, vintage, or even modern.
Ancient Egyptians, in particular, are credited by some with establishing the practice of exchanging rings.
Later, the Romans popularized wearing these rings on what is now referred to as the ring finger, believing that the vein connected to the heart, vena amoris, ran through it. At first, however, engagement rings served more as a formal agreement between families than a symbol of love.
By the Renaissance, artistry and opulence transformed engagement rings. Gemstones and precious metals were showcased in elaborate designs.
In 1477, the Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy the first known diamond engagement ring, sparking a trend that continues to inspire couples today.
These early chapters paved the way for the vintage and antique styles we now treasure.
Queen Victoria’s iconic emerald-headed serpent ring, symbolizing eternal love, paved the way for meaningful and intricate designs. Other popular motifs during the time included hearts, flowers, and bows.
Following the discovery of significant deposits in South Africa in the late 1800s, diamonds became more widely available.
Colored gemstones such as emeralds, sapphires, and rubies also became sought-after alternatives. Some rings even carried secret names and notes, spelled out using the first letters of carefully chosen gemstones.
Rich in history and sentimental value, Victorian rings remain among the most enchanting pieces of antique jewelry, continuing to inspire today’s designs.
Engagement rings of this period were primarily fashioned from platinum, a durable yet malleable metal that allowed artisans to create exquisite filigree designs which often incorporated ribbons, feathers, and vines.
Diamonds were the era’s hallmark, often in old mine and European cuts that sparkled with dazzling brilliance. Pearls and sapphires were also commonly used as magnificent accent stones during this time.
Beloved for their distinctly refined elegance, Edwardian rings remain timeless treasures, enchanting collectors and couples alike with their enduring charm.
Designed from 1920 through 1940, these rings broke away from soft curves and lace-like details in favor of sharp angles, clean lines, and perfect symmetry.
Platinum and white gold settings highlighted elongated and step-cut diamonds, while gemstones like citrine and garnet brought a vibrant and affordable pop of color throughout the Great Depression.
Nearly a century later, these captivating designs continue to embody timeless luxury with an unmistakable edge.
When platinum was reserved for military use during wartime, yellow and rose gold became the metals of choice, often paired for splendid two-tone designs.
By 1947, De Beers’ legendary “A Diamond is Forever” campaign cemented the diamond’s reign, with solitaire designs accented by baguette side stones becoming the ultimate symbol of love.
Today, these vintage treasures capture the allure of a bygone era defined by resilience and unapologetic style.
Jackie Kennedy’s emerald-and-diamond ring set the stage for gemstone glamour in the 1960s, while the 1970s embraced disco-inspired clusters. Princess Diana’s sapphire halo ring became the ultimate ’80s statement piece, still beloved today.
The 1990s shifted toward sleek silhouettes with marquise and radiant cuts and synthetic gems. In the 2000s, halos and pavé styles grew in popularity alongside a shift toward ethical and personalized rings.
Now, couples enjoy total freedom of expression. Whether choosing a timeless solitaire, a vintage-inspired ring, or a bold modern twist, contemporary engagement rings embody both personal style and timeless romance.
First, pay close attention to the gemstones. From the late 1800s onward, synthetic rubies, sapphires, and emeralds became increasingly common. Many vintage rings also feature imitation or replacement gems. Age alone doesn’t guarantee natural or original stones, so verifying the gem's authenticity is key.
Second, check the ring’s overall structure and durability. Decades of wear can weaken prongs and shanks, leaving gemstones vulnerable to loss. These issues are often repairable, but they require the expertise of a skilled jeweler.
Finally, think about resizing. Ornate antique and vintage rings weren’t made to accommodate significant adjustments, and altering them too much may compromise their integrity.
That said, with the guidance of a trusted jeweler, you can find a ring that is not only stunning but also wearable, durable, and true to its time period.
If you’re drawn to the allure of the past but want the assurance of modern techniques and technologies, consider creating an engagement ring that blends historical elegance with your unique style.
Our team here at Enhancery Jewelers in San Diego, CA, will help you design a ring that has historic touches but still feels both personal and lasting. At the end of the day, the perfect ring is the one you’ll cherish forever.
In this guide, we’ll break down what vintage and antique really mean, explore the defining ring styles of different eras, and share what to consider if you plan on getting one for yourself.
Read on to uncover their history and get the confidence to choose a ring that’s both meaningful and timeless!
Vintage Engagement Rings VS Antique Engagement Rings
Although often used interchangeably, “vintage” and “antique” don’t mean the same thing when it comes to engagement rings. Knowing the difference will not only make your search easier but also help you shop with confidence and find a ring that feels perfect for you.An antique engagement ring is at least 100 years old, with craftsmanship and design elements that can be traced back to the Victorian era and earlier.
A vintage engagement ring, on the other hand, typically falls between 20 and 100 years old, showcasing beloved styles from periods like Art Deco and Retro.
It’s also worth noting that an estate engagement ring refers to any pre-owned ring, regardless of how old it is. An estate ring could be antique, vintage, or even modern.
Engagement Rings Throughout History
Every engagement ring tells a story, shaped by the trends and icons of its time. Each era brought unique designs, from intricate Edwardian filigree to show-stopping Retro silhouettes. Here’s a closer look at the engagement ring trends that defined generations of love!1. Early Engagement Rings
The story of engagement rings begins long before diamonds became the standard. Engagement rings have been part of marriage traditions for thousands of years.Ancient Egyptians, in particular, are credited by some with establishing the practice of exchanging rings.
Later, the Romans popularized wearing these rings on what is now referred to as the ring finger, believing that the vein connected to the heart, vena amoris, ran through it. At first, however, engagement rings served more as a formal agreement between families than a symbol of love.
By the Renaissance, artistry and opulence transformed engagement rings. Gemstones and precious metals were showcased in elaborate designs.
In 1477, the Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy the first known diamond engagement ring, sparking a trend that continues to inspire couples today.
These early chapters paved the way for the vintage and antique styles we now treasure.
2. Victorian Engagement Rings
The Victorian era, from 1800 to 1900, marked a turning point in engagement ring design, flawlessly blending beauty and meaning.Queen Victoria’s iconic emerald-headed serpent ring, symbolizing eternal love, paved the way for meaningful and intricate designs. Other popular motifs during the time included hearts, flowers, and bows.
Following the discovery of significant deposits in South Africa in the late 1800s, diamonds became more widely available.
Colored gemstones such as emeralds, sapphires, and rubies also became sought-after alternatives. Some rings even carried secret names and notes, spelled out using the first letters of carefully chosen gemstones.
Rich in history and sentimental value, Victorian rings remain among the most enchanting pieces of antique jewelry, continuing to inspire today’s designs.
3. Edwardian Engagement Rings
Regal sophistication and delicate lace-like details defined Edwardian engagement rings, named after King Edward VII, which flourished from the 1890s through the early 1920s.Engagement rings of this period were primarily fashioned from platinum, a durable yet malleable metal that allowed artisans to create exquisite filigree designs which often incorporated ribbons, feathers, and vines.
Diamonds were the era’s hallmark, often in old mine and European cuts that sparkled with dazzling brilliance. Pearls and sapphires were also commonly used as magnificent accent stones during this time.
Beloved for their distinctly refined elegance, Edwardian rings remain timeless treasures, enchanting collectors and couples alike with their enduring charm.
4. Art Deco Engagement Rings
Born from the spectacular energy of the Roaring Twenties, Art Deco engagement rings reimagined romance with fearless style.Designed from 1920 through 1940, these rings broke away from soft curves and lace-like details in favor of sharp angles, clean lines, and perfect symmetry.
Platinum and white gold settings highlighted elongated and step-cut diamonds, while gemstones like citrine and garnet brought a vibrant and affordable pop of color throughout the Great Depression.
Nearly a century later, these captivating designs continue to embody timeless luxury with an unmistakable edge.
5. Retro Engagement Rings
Romance in the Retro years was anything but quiet. Engagement rings of the 1940s and 1950s showcased large diamonds, gem accents, and simple but striking gold settings. Every piece was made to be noticed and adored.When platinum was reserved for military use during wartime, yellow and rose gold became the metals of choice, often paired for splendid two-tone designs.
By 1947, De Beers’ legendary “A Diamond is Forever” campaign cemented the diamond’s reign, with solitaire designs accented by baguette side stones becoming the ultimate symbol of love.
Today, these vintage treasures capture the allure of a bygone era defined by resilience and unapologetic style.
6. Modern Engagement Rings
The modern era of engagement rings, spanning from the 1960s to today, is defined by variety and cultural icons.Jackie Kennedy’s emerald-and-diamond ring set the stage for gemstone glamour in the 1960s, while the 1970s embraced disco-inspired clusters. Princess Diana’s sapphire halo ring became the ultimate ’80s statement piece, still beloved today.
The 1990s shifted toward sleek silhouettes with marquise and radiant cuts and synthetic gems. In the 2000s, halos and pavé styles grew in popularity alongside a shift toward ethical and personalized rings.
Now, couples enjoy total freedom of expression. Whether choosing a timeless solitaire, a vintage-inspired ring, or a bold modern twist, contemporary engagement rings embody both personal style and timeless romance.
3 Things to Consider When Buying Old Engagement Rings
Pre-owned engagement rings, both vintage and antique, offer unmatched historical charm. Still, it’s important to know what to look for before making your purchase.First, pay close attention to the gemstones. From the late 1800s onward, synthetic rubies, sapphires, and emeralds became increasingly common. Many vintage rings also feature imitation or replacement gems. Age alone doesn’t guarantee natural or original stones, so verifying the gem's authenticity is key.
Second, check the ring’s overall structure and durability. Decades of wear can weaken prongs and shanks, leaving gemstones vulnerable to loss. These issues are often repairable, but they require the expertise of a skilled jeweler.
Finally, think about resizing. Ornate antique and vintage rings weren’t made to accommodate significant adjustments, and altering them too much may compromise their integrity.
That said, with the guidance of a trusted jeweler, you can find a ring that is not only stunning but also wearable, durable, and true to its time period.
Should You Get a New or Vintage Engagement Ring?
Choosing between a new and vintage engagement ring ultimately comes down to finding a piece that reflects your personal style and unique love story. Vintage rings carry history, romance, and timeless craftsmanship, while new rings offer endless opportunities for customization.If you’re drawn to the allure of the past but want the assurance of modern techniques and technologies, consider creating an engagement ring that blends historical elegance with your unique style.
Our team here at Enhancery Jewelers in San Diego, CA, will help you design a ring that has historic touches but still feels both personal and lasting. At the end of the day, the perfect ring is the one you’ll cherish forever.