Antique & Vintage Engagement Rings: A Choice with Meaning

Antique and vintage engagement rings offer something modern rings rarely can: history, character, and individuality. Each piece tells a story shaped by craftsmanship, era, and romance, making it a deeply personal symbol of commitment. Unlike newly manufactured rings, antique and vintage engagement rings are not mass-produced. They were crafted in a time when jewellery was made by hand, with meticulous attention to proportion, detail, and longevity.

Choosing an antique or vintage engagement ring means embracing a design that has already stood the test of time. From softly glowing old-cut diamonds to hand-engraved platinum and gold settings, these rings reflect artistry that is increasingly rare today. For many couples, this sense of permanence and heritage feels especially meaningful when marking a lifelong promise.

engagement ring with a old mine cut diamond on a hand against a blurred background

Old Mine vs. Old European Cuts
Sapphire and Diamond Art Deco Style Navette Platinum Dress Ring

Art Deco Engagement Rings
Ring with a blue sapphire and diamond accents on a black and gray fabric background

Sapphire Engagement Rings

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our antique and vintage engagement rings

The terms antique and vintage are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings in the jewellery world. An antique engagement ring is typically over 100 years old, most commonly dating from the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, or early Art Deco periods. A vintage engagement ring usually refers to a ring that is at least 20 to 30 years old, often from the mid-20th century, including Retro and late Art Deco styles.

Both antique and vintage rings offer authentic period design, but antiques tend to showcase earlier cutting styles and hand-finished details, while vintage rings may feature bolder shapes and evolving diamond cuts. Neither is better than the other; the right choice depends on personal style, lifestyle, and emotional connection.

A common concern is whether antique engagement rings are durable enough for daily wear. In most cases, the answer is yes, provided the ring has been professionally assessed and maintained. Many antique rings have already survived decades or even centuries of wear, which speaks volumes about their construction.

That said, lifestyle matters. Some antique rings feature finer claws or softer gemstones, which may require extra care. A reputable jeweller will always check the setting, advise on suitability, and recommend subtle reinforcement where appropriate, without compromising the integrity or originality of the piece.

In many cases, yes. Antique and vintage engagement rings often offer better value, particularly when it comes to diamond size and craftsmanship. You are paying for quality and rarity rather than brand premiums.

Antique rings may not always have original certificates, but professional jewellers can provide modern laboratory reports or in-house gemmological assessments where appropriate. Older diamonds are often evaluated differently to modern cuts, which is completely normal.

Most antique and vintage rings can be resized by an experienced jeweller. However, some designs, especially those with engraving or gemstones set all the way around the band, may have limitations. A specialist will always advise before any work is done.