Vintage Engagement Rings: The Ultimate Buying Guide

• Vintage engagement rings are a classic

Even though it’s called ‘vintage,’ it doesn’t mean that it’s outdated. In fact, vintage engagement rings are resurfacing to the trend due to their classic and timeless look—both of which are characteristics of an evergreen fashion statement. 

• It may be cheaper than modern alternatives

Since they’re classic pieces, most vintage engagement rings may be secondhand pieces. But this shouldn’t be considered as a con since it’ll naturally offer potential buyers the ability to ask for a bargain. Thus, if you’re on a strict budget but don’t want to compromise on the details and quality, then you can never go wrong with a vintage engagement ring or a vintage-inspired one, like those available in our collection. 

• Amazing details

Especially those inspired by the Victorian and Edwardian eras, vintage engagement rings have intricate details that modern rings may not be able to match. For one, this type of engagement ring involves Milgrain detailing, which is the process of incorporating tiny metals as a border around a gemstone. Due to this, a Victorian engagement ring indeed possesses beautiful and delicate finishes. 

• Unique

Since vintage engagement rings were created before the era of mass production, you can definitely say that these rings can’t be easily replicated.  Additionally, with diamond cuts like cushion, old single, old mine, Peruzzi, Mazarin, rose, French, and many others, you’ll rest assured that your partner will be dazzled once you present them with a vintage engagement ring. 

Cons

On the downside, here are some cons you should expect when you purchase a vintage engagement ring: 

• High-maintenance

As mentioned, since vintage engagement rings are incredibly detailed, this means that they demand delicate and diligent maintenance to maintain their appeal. For one, machine cleaning won’t work on these types of rings since it may damage the details. If you want to clean it manually, then it’ll be a painstaking endeavor, especially if you’re inexperienced, to make it sparkle and shine as if it’s newly made.

If you still want to purchase a vintage engagement ring but don’t want to handle the maintenance that comes along with it, then check our vintage-inspired collection. 

• Costly repairs

Since it has already seen its fair share of time, it’s expected that vintage engagement rings may show some signs of wear and tear. This means that it requires more often than modern ones. When it comes to repairing these rings, it can be more expensive since, as mentioned, it needs to be in the hands of an expert to strengthen the bands. As an alternative, you can look for vintage-inspired rings.

Tips on buying a vintage engagement ring

If you’re now fully decided to go for a vintage engagement ring or even vintage-inspired ones, like those in our collection, then keep these tips in mind as you shop around: 

• Conduct proper research

Buying an engagement ring, regardless of the kind, is a lifetime investment. Hence it demands that you conduct thorough research. As a start, you can start with the diamond’s four C’s above, and you should also consider the kind of metal. Additionally, you may also want to take into account the type of cut, like table, French, Carre, Point, Mazarin, Peruzzi, Cushion, Old Single, Asscher, Old mine, Old European, and Rose. 

• Have a budget

Since the price of a vintage engagement ring depends on many factors, you should set a budget first before you even start looking for a ring. Don’t worry if you may not find an ideal ring that suits your budget since there are plenty of sellers out there who are even willing to offer you a deal. 

• Consider the return policy

Regardless of the company where you’ll buy your vintage engagement ring, make sure that you thoroughly understand the return policy. This is important since the engagement ring may get damaged during transport, or it won’t fit your partner’s fingers. If these scenarios are covered, then you may not pay if you want to return the item.

• Ask about the resizing policy

If you’re planning to surprise your partner, there may be a chance that the initial engagement ring won’t perfectly fit your partner’s finger. If this is the case, ask about the resizing policy of the company, as well as if there’s a fee for such a process. If the jeweler advises against resizing the ring, then take their advice since the ring may lose its structural integrity. 

Takeaway

With this ultimate buying guide, you now have the necessary information required when buying a vintage engagement ring. Also, don’t forget always to consider your partner’s preferences. Fortunately, a vintage engagement ring comes with different options, so you’ll absolutely find one that suits your partner’s needs. All that’s left for you to do now is to pop the question!