Modern engagement rings vs antique engagement rings

Both vintage engagement rings and modern engagement rings are beautiful, timeless and carry with them great sentiment. Many industries, including the jewellery industry, are seeing a rise in popularity of vintage items. 

With so many different rings to choose from, it can be an overwhelming process. Read on to discover the differences between vintage and modern engagement rings, the advantages of both and, hopefully, which is right for you. 

 

Vintage rings

One of main, and most obvious appeals to getting a vintage ring is the fact that the diamonds carry with them age and history. From being handed down through family generations, to a unique find in a jewellery shop, vintage rings have a timeless, unique quality to them. 

The term vintage covers a large range of eras, each with their own trends. Did you know that it wasn’t until 1866 when the classic six-prong Tiffany diamond solitaire ring was introduced? This means that if you’re looking at rings made prior to this, you are likely to come across the use of different gemstones instead of diamonds. Having a sapphire or emerald as the centre jewel is a traditionally Edwardian style of engagement ring, but it’s uniqueness is proving to be very popular now.

Additionally, the cuts of the diamonds in vintage rings are different to the cuts of diamonds today. This is a natural process of evolving technology. Old cut diamonds are recognisable for their round outline and deeply cut facets, making them appear thicker than modern round brilliant cut diamonds. However, this also affects the way in which light reflects from old cut diamonds. They tend to give off a warmer, deeper tone than today’s modern diamonds which are more brightly sparkling. 

 

Modern rings

While there are many beautiful qualities to a vintage engagement ring, there are also many advantages to choosing a modern engagement ring for your proposal. 

The standard for diamonds today is far higher than it was a few hundred years ago, meaning that the quality of the diamond is likely to be far better. They are also likely to come with certificates to confirm their history and authenticity which may put your mind at ease. 

Additionally, modern rings are far easier to get repaired should you need to. Vintage rings, because of their age and unique craftsmanship, can often require a specialist which can not only be difficult to find but also expensive. In today’s busy, constantly-on-the-go society, this is something to consider. 

As with everything, trends change as the years pass. The styles of halo rings, trilogy rings and oval rings which are particularly popular today, may just be your preferred style over the Art Deco or Edwardian style vintage rings. 

 

In Summary

There are many different styles of engagement rings, each with different gemstones, cuts and unique characteristics. Choosing the right engagement ring for you can be very difficult and with advantages to both modern engagement rings and vintage engagement rings, you may find that looking at the rings in person will help you gage a better idea of what is right for you. 

Here at Cuttings Jewellers and Pawnbrokers we have a number of both modern and vintage engagement rings. You can shop our rings online here, or you can visit either of our two shops in Kent to talk to our experts, get advice and view the rings in person.