Clutches for Less

Vintage is often a term that is used when describing fashions from the past that aren’t quiet at the level of being considered antiques but are still classics. Vintage engagement rings can be from any time period considered to be more modern than ancient, typically from the early 1900’s to the retro period of even into the 1970’s.

Most of the engagement rings from these time periods had very distinctive qualities that uniquely categorize the rings as being vintage. Typically the rings included both yellow and white gold combinations on the bands, however platinum was and is also used in creating some very unique settings and bands.

The bands in these slightly older styles of engagement rings tend to be different from modern band styles. The shank or back part of the band is often very small and round while the front is flatter, raised and wider. On many of the rings in vintage collection the band is often yellow gold and the settings or mounts in white gold. Not only does this add detail but it also collects light and focuses it in on the diamonds.

Many vintage engagement rings feature groups of small, medium or average sized diamonds rather than one large solitaire. The different sizes and shapes of diamonds in the setting help with light reflection and really sparkle with the ring is turned with normal movement. In addition other gems may be included in the setting, dropping bits of bright color onto the central diamonds.  

A popular cut in vintage engagement rings as well as in antique diamond rings is the cushion cut. Cushion cut engagement rings have a beautiful, soft internal sparkle and fire and are ideal to stand alone on a simple band. The cut also works well with interlocking and curved wedding band and engagement ring sets. 

Cushion cut diamonds are also sometimes known as candlelight diamonds since they reflect even the subtle light from candles used historically in homes. They tend to be more oval to rounded rectangular in shape and have a very soft and almost understated appearance on engagement rings.

The facets on vintage style or new versions of the cushion cut diamond tend to include longer, more open facets. This allows slightly more light loss from the diamond, resulting in the softer reflection without loosing all the light internally. Generally these diamonds are used as either solitaire or in pave type settings surrounded by smaller diamonds.  

Looking through estate sales or selecting jewelers that offer replicas of vintage engagement rings may provide you with some options you hadn’t previously considered. The detail in these rings really makes them unique and different from modern engagement rings.

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