Vintage Engagement Rings Brisbane: Styles, Diamonds & Buying Tips

Some rings will stand out because of the larger diamond, whereas others will impress due to the attention to detail in the design. Delicate milgrained borders, unique settings or intricate design engravings can make the ring stand out from the rest.

With vintage engagement rings Brisbane there is a lot to choose from for couples wanting something with an older style. This can range from authentic antique pieces to new replica pieces inspired by past decades.

It is important to know what you are purchasing as some rings may look very similar but have very different stories to tell.

What Makes a Vintage Engagement Ring Special?

Although commonly used the term ‘vintage’ can have different meanings. Traditionally, vintage jewellery refers to pieces from a previous era. However, ‘antique’ jewellery will generally be 100 years old or older.

A vintage inspired ring will be brand new but will have design elements inspired by vintage styles.

While an authentic vintage ring may have signs of wear, traditional cut stones and careful settings, a modern replica can provide the same style with brand new components.

There is no right or wrong answer here, it really depends on what you are looking for. If you want an authentic piece then go for an authentic piece. If you want something practical for everyday wear then a modern replica. If you want a specific design then a vintage inspiration piece may be for you.

Vintage Engagement Rings Brisbane What Styles are Available?

Vintage designs can be very varied. Knowing the characteristics of each era may help you decide what styles you like.

Art Deco – Geometric Style Settings

Many Art Deco engagement rings will have straight lines and symmetrical designs. Emerald or Asscher cut diamonds would work well but round diamonds are also used.

Some will have smaller accent stones or multi coloured gemstones to give them a unique look, even if you do not have a large central diamond.

Victorian Inspired – Romantic Style

Victorian jewellery will have floral patterns. Engraved metals and pretty settings. This can be quite a soft style compared to the Art Deco geometric styles.

Modern Victorian inspired rings may be crafted in rose gold, yellow gold or platinum.

Edwardian – Intricate Detail

Edwardian rings are known for having beautiful intricate designs. The metalwork is often like lace. Milgrained edges.

This was when platinum became very important in high-end jewellery. It meant that the jeweller could add intricate settings.

If you love an elegant style with a subtle design then an Edwardian inspired piece could be the way to go.

Can Man Made Diamonds be Used in Vintage Engagement Rings?

Yes. You do not need a mined diamond to go in a vintage style setting.

Man made diamonds are diamonds that are grown in a lab and have the same chemical make-up, crystal structure and optical properties. They are not diamond imitations like cubic zirconia.

They are perfect for vintage inspired engagement rings. Halo settings, trilogy settings and intricate metalwork can all be created.

A round brilliant lab grown diamond could work well in an Edwardian inspired halo setting and an emerald cut diamond would work well with the clean lines of an Art Deco setting.

Novita Diamonds retail jewellery across Australia and offer lab grown diamonds.

However, if you are looking for an authentic antique piece then bear in mind that if you are having a new grown diamond put in the centre it will no longer be authentic.

Things to Consider When Purchasing a Vintage Engagement Ring in Brisbane

Look at the setting. It should have small claws (sometimes called prongs) to keep the stone in place. If there are worn claws then this can cause the diamond to become loose.

Check the band. Some vintage rings will have thin areas due to wear or resizing.

Ask the jeweller the following questions:

• How old is the ring? Is it authentic or inspired?

• What metal is it made from? Are there any hallmarks?

• Has it had any repairs, stones replaced or been altered?

• Diamond grading reports if available.

• Can it be resized? How will this affect the design?

If the seller states that the ring is an authentic antique then ask for proof. Just because it has a design from a certain era doesn’t mean it is old.

Choosing the Correct Diamond Shape

The shape of the diamond will make a big difference to the look of the ring.

Round brilliants are a very versatile option that will work with most traditional settings. Oval diamonds will give the ring an elongated look and can look great with smaller stones around.

Emerald cuts have large step cuts which will give another reflection pattern. Cushion cuts have rounded corners and can work with pretty settings or minimalist designs.

Novita Diamonds is one place to look at different diamond shapes if you are looking for lab grown stones.

It can be helpful to look at the diamond in different lighting.

Correct Size and Metal

Some intricate engagement rings can be difficult to resize. If the band has full engravings, delicate side stones or unusual design then it may not be possible to resize.

Ask if it can be resized and how this will affect the design.

Different metals can give different looks. Platinum, yellow gold, white gold and rose gold. White gold may need occasional rhodium plating. Platinum will show wear on the surface.

If you plan on wearing the ring everyday then think about how easy it will be to clean the setting.

Price, Quality and Long Term Care

The price of a vintage engagement ring can depend on several factors. The age, condition, quality of craftsmanship, quality of gemstones, amount of metal used and historical value.

New rings may be more expensive as they have intricate metalwork and extra accent stones.

If you are looking for modern alternatives Novita Diamonds can help you compare lab grown diamonds. Think about what setting you would like to create to reflect a vintage style.

Ask for a written description of the ring, materials used and any grading reports. Keep your receipts and notes on any repairs or alterations.

If you are looking for an authentic vintage piece then it may be helpful to get an independent evaluation.

A ring with intricate detailing can look great for a long time but will need to be cared for correctly. Regular checks, gentle cleaning and fixing any loose stones will help to keep the ring looking its best.