Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
20th Century American Art Deco Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
1940s Retro Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, Platinum
20th Century Art Deco Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
20th Century Unknown Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, 14k Gold
1970s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
20th Century Art Deco Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Platinum
1980s Modernist Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
1980s British Victorian Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Gold
1990s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Platinum
1990s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Platinum
1950s American Modernist Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Platinum
1950s Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Mid-20th Century Unknown Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1970s Art Deco Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Platinum
1950s Art Deco Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Platinum
1950s Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Late 20th Century Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Late 20th Century Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
1980s Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
1980s Art Deco Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
18k Gold
20th Century Art Deco Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, Platinum
20th Century Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
1960s Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
1990s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Tourmaline, Gold, 18k Gold
1990s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
1970s American Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
1960s Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold
Mid-20th Century Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1980s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Tsavorite, 18k Gold
1970s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Yellow Sapphire, Diamond, Platinum
Mid-20th Century Retro Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Citrine, Gold, 10k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s French Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
1970s Retro Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1940s Retro Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Aquamarine, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1950s Retro Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
1980s Retro Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 20th Century English Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
20th Century Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Aquamarine, Diamond, Gold, White Gold
1950s Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
1960s Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Platinum
Late 20th Century Art Deco Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Platinum
1970s Victorian Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
1990s American Edwardian Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Ruby, White Diamond, 14k Gold, Gold, Yellow Gold
1980s Contemporary Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Zircon, Platinum
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
Late 20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, White Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Topaz, 18k Gold, White Gold
Late 20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold...
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century Unknown Vintage Estate Engagement Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
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Vintage Estate Engagement Rings For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much are Vintage Estate Engagement Rings?
The Legacy of Diamond in Jewelry Design
Antique diamond rings, diamond tiaras and dazzling vintage diamond earrings are on the wish lists of every lover of fine jewelry. And diamonds and diamond jewelry are primarily associated with storybook engagements and red-carpet grand entrances — indeed, this ultra-cherished gemstone has a dramatic history on its hands.
From “A Diamond Is Forever” to “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” pop culture has ingrained in our minds that diamonds are the most desired, the most lasting and the most valuable gemstone. But what makes the diamond so special? Each stone — whether it’s rubies, sapphires or another stone — is unique and important in its own right. April babies might claim diamonds for themselves, but just about everyone wants this kind of sparkle in their lives!
There are several factors that set diamonds apart from other stones, and these points are important to our gem education.
Diamonds are minerals. They are made up of almost entirely of carbon (carbon comprises 99.95 percent; the remainder consists of various trace elements). Diamonds are the hardest gemstones, ranking number 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Even its name, diamond, is rooted in the Greek adamas, or unconquerable. The only object that can scratch a diamond is another diamond. Diamonds are formed deep within the earth at very high temperatures (1,652–2,372 degrees Fahrenheit at depths between 90 and 120 miles beneath the earth’s surface) and are carried up by volcanic activity. Diamonds are quite rare, according to the Gemological Institute of America, and only 30 percent of all the diamonds mined in the world are gem quality.
In the 1950s, the Gemological Institute of America developed the 4Cs grading system to classify diamonds: clarity, color, cut and carat weight. Not all diamonds are created equal (there are diamonds, and then there are diamonds). The value of the diamond depends on the clarity (flawless diamonds are very rare but a diamond's value decreases if there are many blemishes or inclusions), color (the less color the higher the grade), cut (how the diamond’s facets catch the light, certain cuts of diamonds show off the stone better than others) and carat weight (the bigger, the better).
When you start shopping for a diamond engagement ring, always prioritize the cut, which plays the largest role in the diamond's beauty (taking the time to clean your diamond ring at least every six months or so plays a role in maintaining said beauty). And on 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
Shop antique and vintage diamond rings, diamond necklaces and other extraordinary diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
Finding the Right Rings for You
Antique and vintage rings have long held a special place in the hearts of fine jewelry lovers all over the world.
No matter their origin or specific characteristics, rings are timeless, versatile accessories. They’ve carried deep meaning since at least the Middle Ages, when diamond rings symbolized strength and other kinds of rings were worn to signify romantic feelings or to denote an affiliation with a religious order. Rings have also forever been emblematic of eternity.
Over time, rings have frequently taken the form of serpents, which have long been associated with eternal life, health and renewal. Italian luxury jewelry house Bulgari has become famous for its widely loved Serpenti motif, for example, and its Serpenti ring, like the other accessories in the collection, began as an homage to jewelry of the Roman and Hellenistic eras. The serpent is now a popular motif in fine jewelry. Jewelry devotees have long pined for rings adorned with reptiles, thanks to antique Victorian rings — well, specifically, Queen Victoria’s illustrious engagement ring, which took the form of a gold snake set with rubies, diamonds and an emerald (her birthstone). Designs for Victorian-era engagement rings often featured repoussé work and chasing, in which patterns are hammered into the metal.
Engagement rings, which are reliably intimidating to shop for, are still widely recognized as symbols of love and commitment. On 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement rings, vintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.
The most collectible antique engagement rings and vintage engagement rings are those from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. Named for the monarchies of the four King Georges, who in succession ruled England starting in 1714 (plus King William’s reign), antique Georgian rings, be they engagement rings or otherwise, are also coveted by collectors. Pearls, along with colored gemstones like garnets, rubies and sapphires, were widely used in Georgian jewelry. The late-1700s paste jewelry was a predecessor to what we now call fashion or costume jewelry.
The Art Nouveau movement (1880–1910) brought with it rings inspired by the natural world. Antique Art Nouveau rings might feature depictions of winged insects and fauna as well as women, who were simultaneously eroticized and romanticized, frequently with long flowing hair. Art Deco jewelry, on the other hand, which originated during the 1920s and ’30s, is by and large “white jewelry.” White metals, primarily platinum, were favored over yellow gold in the design of antique Art Deco rings and other accessories as well as geometric motifs, with women drawn to the era’s dazzling cocktail rings in particular.
Whether you’re hunting down a chunky classic for a Prohibition-themed cocktail party or seeking a clean contemporary design to complement your casual ensemble, find an exquisite collection of antique, new and vintage rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024The difference between vintage, antique and estate engagement rings comes down to age and history. Rings that are over 100 years old are antiques, while those produced 20 to 99 years ago are vintage. Estate engagement rings are any rings that have had a previous owner. They can include antique, vintage and even contemporary rings produced during the last 20 years. Shop a large selection of engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021A vintage engagement ring is generally defined as an engagement ring that is 20 to 80 years old. By definition, “antique” applies to anything that is 100 years or older. The most popular vintage styles for engagement rings are Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco. Vintage engagement rings could feature traditional diamonds or colored gemstones. Find a wide variety of vintage engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023Yes, vintage engagement rings are popular among some people. Many find the details of rings produced during the last 20 to 99 years to be visually appealing. In fact, some contemporary jewelry makers even draw inspiration from vintage designs. Some people also prefer vintage rings because they inherit them from relatives or because they like the idea of wearing an engagement ring that has a history. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of vintage engagement rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2023A vintage-style engagement ring is a piece of bridal jewelry designed in the style of rings produced in the past. Many vintage-style engagement rings borrow elements from Victorian, Art Deco or Edwardian jewelry. Although the rings may closely resemble authentic antique or vintage rings, they are actually contemporary pieces produced in recent years. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary engagement rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023Whether halo engagement rings are vintage depends on their age. Any ring made at least 20 to 80 years ago is vintage, while older pieces are antiques. Halo engagement rings emerged during the Art Deco period and have remained popular since. As a result, you can find many antique and vintage examples, as well as contemporary rings that show off a central gemstone surrounded by a halo of accent stones. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of halo engagement rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023A vintage engagement ring is generally any engagement ring that dates back 20 to 80 years. Rings that are 100 or more years old are antiques. The design of a vintage engagement ring is influenced by each era's artistic visions, cultural movements and preferences in materials, gemstones and motifs. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary engagement rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023You can find vintage engagement rings in many places. If you want to shop in person, check out second-hand stores, auction houses and estate sales. Browsing the collections of trusted online platforms can also allow you to quickly discover many vintage pieces. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of vintage engagement rings from some of the world's top dealers.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023You can buy vintage engagement rings from many sources. Local estate sales, auctions and secondhand shops can be good local sources. Another option is to shop for vintage pieces on trusted online platforms. You can find a large collection of vintage engagement rings from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023Details that reflect the trends of previous eras are what make an engagement ring look vintage. During the 1940s, engagement rings often featured two-tone metal bands and small central stones flanked by accent stones like baguettes. During the 1950s, World War II-era restrictions on platinum were finally lifted, and many people chose platinum engagement rings set with a single brilliant-cut diamond. The 1960s brought colored gemstones into fashion, and engagement rings from the 1970s and ’80s often featured bold, flashy geometric designs. In the 1990s, marquise diamonds and white gold and platinum metals were popular. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of vintage engagement rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023The difference between vintage and classic engagement rings has to do with taste and time. Vintage engagement rings date back 20 to 80 years and occupy the sweet spot between historic and modern. Whether or not an engagement ring is "classic" may pertain solely to the style of the ring. The solitaire setting is considered a classic setting for engagement rings. Tiffany Co. broadly helped put diamonds on the map in 1886 by introducing the American marketplace to the solitaire diamond design, which is still the quintessential engagement ring style. Designed to maximize a diamond's sparkle, the trademark Tiffany Setting elevated the stone on six prongs (in contrast to the bezel setting, which was common at the time). In the late 1800s, Cartier sought to render the diamonds in their engagement rings and other rings as brilliantly as possible, and the house's Solitaire 1895 engagement ring is considered a classic engagement ring. Find antique and vintage engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023The difference between vintage and antique engagement rings is age. For an engagement ring to be considered an antique, it must be at least 100 years old. Vintage engagement rings are pieces made at least 20 years ago. Shop a collection of vintage and antique engagement rings on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024There are several reasons why people buy vintage engagement rings. Some prefer the way jewelry looked in decades past and select vintage pieces that fit their tastes. Others choose vintage engagement rings to get a unique, one-of-a-kind piece or like the idea of their jewelry having a long history. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of vintage engagement rings.
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