What to Look for in a Vintage Engagement Ring

If you’re considering proposing to your girlfriend and are struggling to decide which type of ring to buy, a vintage engagement ring can be an ideal choice.  Not only do vintage rings often have a long history attached to them, but they are also an ecologically sound choice that won’t cost the earth.  However, if you want your ring to stand the test of time, and suit the girl you are buying it for, there are a number of things you will need to consider.  Keep reading to find out more.

Royalty free photo

Durability

Because vintage is such a broad category, you will find that there are both fragile rings and super sturdy rings available.  The flowery, light styles that are often associated with being vintage are the more fragile types and probably won’t be suitable unless your girlfriend works as a hand model.  So, you’ll want to look for a sturdy ring that she can wear in her everyday life.  Durability usually comes down to how the ring was constructed, so this is what you’ll want to pay close attention to.  Check out the vintage rings from Berganza for some great, durable options.

Stone Settings

Not all vintage rings contain gemstones, but if you are considering buying one that does, you’ll want to take a look at how the stones have been set.  The stones should be set firmly in place; you can see how firm they are by shaking the ring – if you hear a noise, the stones are loose.  Additionally, you can also run your finger over the stones to ensure they don’t move.

Stone Quality and Size

The gemstones in vintage rings were often cut during a time when the technology was less precise and when the trade in gems like diamonds was less efficient.  Although this may not matter to you, if you’re interested in the visual impact of the ring, you will want to pay close attention to how the gems look.  Consider the four C’s: cut, color, clarity and carat, and consider having an independent appraisal of the ring done, especially if you are buying a ring containing diamonds.

Sizing

When buying a vintage ring, you won’t have the same choice available to you as you do with modern rings.  A good rule of thumb is to only look for rings that are within two sizes, larger or smaller, of your girlfriends current ring size.  It is relatively simple for a jeweler to increase or decrease the size of a ring by two sizes, but anything else is going to be a struggle.  This will also prevent you from falling in love with a ring that you won’t be able to buy.

Finally, before purchasing a vintage ring for your girlfriend, take the time to look at the current jewelry that she has and ensure that you are fully aware of the styles that she does and doesn’t like.  This is the best way to find a ring that she will love.