Facing the choice, whether to choose the family traditional ring or a brand new ring which you can truly call your own? Each option has its pros as well as its cons, so ensure you’re aware of them before settling on that one special piece that will remain on your finger for decades to come
What Is a Vintage Engagement Ring?
A vintage engagement ring is one that should have at least existed for half a century. This, classically, means that a vintage ring has been owned – and worn – by someone else, such as a family member. Like great grand mom, grand mom, your mom and then it came down to you. However, Vintage Engagement Rings can be purchased from antique retailers or from jewelers who boasts a collection in antique section. But yes your family ring will definitely have more emotions attached than the bought one.
Whereas, a vintage-inspired or vintage styled engagement ring is a brand new ring that has been intentionally made to look like an old ring. This includes the shape, design and choice of metal and stones used to make the ring have a similar aesthetic to a true vintage ring.
Obviously, both these options vary from a new ring, which nobody has worn before and has, presumably, been made recently using the latest jewelry making technology.
Antique And Vintage Are Different
Antique rings and vintage rings are different. To be considered a ‘vintage’ ring, it must be at least 50 years old, whereas to acquire the label ‘antique,’ a piece of jewelry (or even furniture), it must be at least 100 years old. There are several different types of antique rings and they can all be grouped as being from a particular era. Antique Engagement Rings can be divided on the basis of periods they belong to like Georgian, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, or Art Deco.
Buying A Vintage (Or Antique) Engagement Ring
Most people think vintage engagement rings are cheaper than brand new ones and, most often, they are, however, of course, this will depend on the vintage ring you’re considering. A piece chock full of diamonds in a platinum setting is unlikely to be cheap.
Craftsmanship
Rings belonging to period prior to 1950 are more likely to have been handmade, giving each piece a sense of uniqueness, aesthetics and quality. Furthermore, vintage and antique jewelry styles and designs, frequently, feature older, more intricate designs, certainly ones you won’t be able to find in a jewelry store catalogue.
Original Design
Because a vintage ring would have been created by jewelers belonging to particular era, you will generally not see or find another ring exactly the same. This quality is sure to appeal to those brides who want a truly Unique Engagement Ring.
Durability
According to the age and type of metal and settings used, a vintage ring can be much less durable than its modern counterparts. Some vintage or antique rings are made with delicate designs that are not capable of withstanding rough, everyday wear of present day life.
If you’re considering Buy Engagement Rings Online, you may be unable to wear it during your daily chores. However, if you plan to wear it only on special occasions, this would not be an issue.
Costly maintenance
As mentioned, some vintage engagement rings feature intricate settings which can be more prone to damage (and more easily). This means a vintage ring will, most likely, need repairs or restorations, perhaps more than once. Also, repairing can be expensive depending on the design of the ring, and the more you alter your ring over time, the weaker it will become. Some vintage or antique rings cannot undergo any modification due to their design.
Pre-owned
The shortcoming of buying or inheriting a vintage or antique engagement ring is that it is pre-loved. Owning a pre-loved or a second hand ring does not appeal to everyone, as some brides may feel that a pre-loved ring represents the life and love of the previous owner. Additionally, they may believe that a new ring will symbolize the beginning of a new marriage. Theirs!
Buying A New Engagement Ring
Customization
New rings can be Custom Designed Engagement Rings or self designed which is a bonus for brides who want a wedding ring that nobody else has. Many jewelers will permit you to choose all aspects of the ring, including the stone, cut, setting, metal and any other design features you desire.
If you like the appearance of vintage and antique engagement rings but are concerned about the diamond quality and durability of the vintage ring, you can take idea from vintage designs and create a version of a vintage ring that is more durable and personalized.
It’s Easier To Match To Your Wedding Ring
As vintage rings generally have quite unique designs, it can sometimes be fiddly to find a perfect match for your vintage engagement ring and your wedding ring. Vintage rings tend to have intricate filigree patterns and unique settings which can be difficult to match – and costly to replicate or modify.
However, a new engagement ring is much easier to match with a new wedding ring as the materials and processes used to make both rings will be similar and easier to source. And, if you purchase your engagement ring and wedding ring from the same jeweler, it may work out to be more affordable than buying the two from separate sources.
It’s Brand New
Your ring should be special and symbolize your love with your new spouse. For people who prefer to wear a ring that hasn’t been owned by another person, a new engagement ring is the only choice.
Mass-production
Some new engagement ring styles are mass-produced, which, basically, means that there are lots of other rings around that look the same, especially if you’re going for a new ring style that is ‘on trend.’ This can be a deterrent for a bride who is after a ring that boasts a truly one-off design.
Cost
As with vintage or antique rings, the cost of the new engagement rings varies significantly but you will always be able to find Engagement Ring Online Store in your budget. The price of your new engagement ring may be considerably more than most vintage or antique engagement rings, but then again, it will be significantly more reasonable for maintenance.
