Vintage Wedding Rings: Here's What You Need To Know

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS --

A vintage wedding ring can be a stunning piece to represent not just a couple’s everlasting commitment, but also the longer history of love and romance that commitment continues. But what vintage wedding rings are available and how can a couple choose just the right rings for their union?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• Defining Vintage
• Choosing A Vintage Wedding Ring
• Get Educated
• Study Styles
• Shop Around
• Be Patient
• Preparing For The Wedding Day

Defining Vintage

To be classified as officially vintage, jewelry must be at least 50 years old, but no older than 100 years. Jewelry less than 50 years old is typically considered modern in design, whereas jewelry older than 100 years is considered antique. There is some flexibility in age classification, however, depending on how well an older piece represents a specific jewelry era or showcases the artistry and craftsmanship known to be part of older styles. 

To be sure a ring is truly vintage, it is important to get the expert appraisal of a reputable jeweler. The ring should be evaluated for age and quality, and the stones should be carefully checked as well to ensure their authenticity and quality. The craftsmanship of the ring should be examined, and the artistry of the ring can help determine its age. Furthermore, flaws – such as the scratches and nicks from decades of loving wear – can help authenticate the ring and add to its unique history. Finally, any available paperwork, including sales records, insurance reports, and repair records, should be examined to help determine the ring’s history and value.

Choosing a Vintage Wedding Ring

Vintage wedding rings can include rings with intricate designs, gemstones, or diamonds. They may refer to both engagement rings and the rings exchanged during the wedding ceremony. In contrast, vintage wedding bands refer to the simpler, plain metal rings exchanged during the wedding ceremony. These bands are usually unadorned, though they can feature subtle details like engravings or small accent stones.

Vintage wedding rings are not necessarily right for every couple. Vintage rings, for example, may not precisely match an engagement ring and it could be challenging to find either a complete bridal set with a coordinating vintage engagement ring or else a pair of matching wedding bands, if matched styles are important to both partners.

When a couple is ready to choose one or more vintage wedding rings, it is important to…

• Get Educated

Learn about different wedding ring settings, diamond and gemstone quality, and the quality of vintage wedding rings. This will help a couple make an informed choice about the best ring to symbolize their union.

• Study Styles

Try wedding rings from different vintage eras to decide which styles are best for different preferences and fashionable flair. There are many options to choose from, and even within one era, there is great variation in ring styles.

“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer

• Shop Around

Work with a reputable jewelry retailer who has a large collection of vintage
wedding bands, or shop around to different in-person and online retailers, including pawn shops and estate sales, to discover more styles and options.

• Be Patient

Shopping early is the best option for a couple with specific wishes for vintage
wedding rings. Retailers find additional rings at different auctions and estate sales throughout the year, and waiting can help a couple find the perfect rings for their preferences. before

Preparing for the Wedding Day

Once a couple has found just the right vintage wedding ring or pair of rings, it is important that the jewelry looks its best for that very special day. The ring should be thoroughly inspected and properly appraised, and any cleaning or necessary repairs should be completed long before the wedding date so there are no delays. At the same time, the ring’s size should be checked and any resizing done if needed. Couples may also want to consider insurance to cover the ring in case of loss, theft, or damage. 

As the wedding approaches, couples should entrust these most special rings to someone who will safeguard them carefully until the ceremony, whether that is a parent, member of the bridal party, or the officiant. During the ceremony, vintage wedding rings can be showcased on a vintage or heirloom ring pillow, or an antique ring box can be a fine way to deliver rings to the altar.

Vintage style is distinct, romantic, and everlasting. When couples choose vintage wedding rings, they are choosing not only a fine piece of jewelry to represent their union, but they become part of the long history of the rings and all the love and romance the jewelry has represented for generations.