7 Best Reasons for Choosing Sustainable Engagement Rings (2023)

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS --

Sustainability is increasingly important in our conscientious society. But how can you tell if a vintage engagement ring is truly ethical and sustainable? Understanding how sustainability and vintage jewelry are related can help you make the best choice when purchasing a vintage engagement ring.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• What is a Sustainable Engagement Ring?
• How to Verify Vintage Rings?
• Makers Mark
• Authenticity
• Design History
• Ownership History
• Age Of a Ring
• Sustainable Engagement Rings
• Future Generations
• Choosing a Sustainable Ring?

What is a Sustainable Engagement Ring?

When something is sustainable, whether it is an agricultural crop, building material, furniture, clothing, or piece of jewelry, it means that item does not use irreplaceable resources and has little or no impact on the environment and ecosystem.

By its nature, vintage engagement rings are ethical and sustainable because no new mining for metals or gemstones is necessary to enjoy the piece for many years. Vintage rings can be even more sustainable with a conscientious retailer who also embraces other sustainable practices, such as minimizing shipping materials, recycling packaging, lowering storefront energy usage, and otherwise working to be sustainable in multiple ways.

How to Verify Vintage Rings?

To ensure that a vintage engagement ring is sustainable, it is important to verify the authenticity of the ring....

• Makers Marks

Check the ring for maker’s marks and other identifying stamps or trademarks, and consult with an experienced jeweler for detailed examination of the piece.

• Authenticity

Look for other signs of the ring’s authenticity, such as its historic paper trail, the condition and cut of the gems, the workmanship on the metal, and other details. The more that is known about a vintage engagement ring, the more its sustainability can be guaranteed.

• Design History 

Every time a ring is redesigned, resized, or otherwise manipulated, it uses some small amount of resources to make those changes. If a vintage engagement ring still maintains its original design and size, it is a more sustainable and eco-friendly piece.

• Ownership History 

If a a vintage ring has fewer ownership transfers, it has swapped owners fewer times and likely has been shipped less, using less fossil fuel in its lifespan. This creates a smaller carbon footprint and more overall sustainability.

• Age of a Ring 

The older an engagement ring is, the more sustainable its original creation is likely to have been. A ring that is only 50 years old, for example, is still a vintage piece but used some modern equipment for mining. Antique engagement rings that are more than 100 years old, however have more hand labor involved in their creation and use fewer resources.

Sustainable Engagement Rings

Once a couple owns a vintage engagement ring, they can keep the piece sustainable for many years by giving it proper care. If the ring is cared for appropriately, it will not need as much repair or maintenance that would use modern equipment and consume more resources. Similarly, treating the ring gently will minimize the need for chemical cleanings or other treatments that may not be as eco-friendly as possible.

Future Generations

One of the best ways to ensure a vintage ring’s sustainability is to share its story and make it personally meaningful. If an engagement ring becomes a treasured family heirloom, it may be passed down to additional generations to symbolize future unions, meaning that new couples do not need to invest in modern, mass-produced engagement rings that consume more resources.

Choosing a Sustainable Ring

To keep an engagement ring sustainable for future generations, keep the ring’s essential paperwork and care for it well to ensure a long and beautiful lifespan. Most of all, be willing to pass the ring to new couples to share not only the beauty of the jewelry, but how much it means, how important sustainability is, and how a vintage engagement ring can be an environmentally friendly option for every relationship and many happily ever afters.

Antique Engagement Rings For Everyone:

No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.

Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:

Antique diamond cuts are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of vintage engagement rings today!

Suzanne Sachs