Feb 10, 2023

What's The Difference Between Antique and Vintage Rings (2025)

by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS--

With its unique look, and timeless appeal, an antique engagement ring is a fantastic choice for an engagement ring. Once you understand what an antique and vintage rings actually are, how incredibly special it is, the care it needs and how sustainability factors in you can decide if it is the best choice for you to wear to represent you and your eternal romance.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

What is an Antique Ring?
What is a Vintage Ring?
Top Practical Engagement Ring Tips
Ring Examination
Gemstone Examination
Prong Examination
Gemstone Authenticity
Caring For Your Engagement Ring
Soak and Clean
Polishing
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly
Celebrity
Choosing an Engagement Ring

What is an Antique Ring?

To be considered an authentic antique ring, it should be at least 100 years old. However, antique jewelers often include jewelry from the 1930s and 1940s as part of the antique category. These rings typically span several iconic eras, including Georgian, Victorian, Belle Epoque, Art Deco, Edwardian, and Retro, each known for its distinctive style and craftsmanship.

What is a Vintage Ring?

Vintage rings typically range from 20 to 50 years old, making them younger than antique rings. These rings often come from iconic eras such as the retro and late Art Deco periods, as well as the Fabulous 50s, and the styles of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. Each era offers unique designs and craftsmanship, making vintage rings a popular choice for collectors and jewelry lovers.

Top Practical Engagement Ring Tips

Finding the perfect antique or vintage ring can be quite challenging. A couple must decide what exactly is their style and decide which era and antique diamond cut will showcase that. After that decision is made then the next step will be to check the overall condition of the ring. When choosing an antique or vintage ring you should...

• Ring Examination

Always carefully examine the overall condition of the ring. An antique or vintage engagement ring will usually have some wear and tear but check for extensive wear and tear. Any shank or sizing problems can properly be repaired by a master antique jeweler.

• Gemstone Examination

Examine the overall condition of the center stone. Whether it is a old European or mine cut diamond or even if the center is a gemstone, always check the condition of the table and girdle.

• Prong Examination

Prongs are one of the most important parts of an antique ring as they hold, and protect, the center gemstone. It is imperative to have a good jeweler who can ascertain if the prongs are too thin or if the diamond may be loose.

• Gemstone Authenticity

Check to see if the center gemstone has been removed and replaced with a modern cut diamond or gemstone. If the center gemstone has been removed then ask the jeweler if the ring is actually an original or if it is a reproduction.

Caring For Your Engagement Ring

• Soak and Clean

You can soak your ring and use a soft, clean brush – an old, worn toothbrush is ideal – to gently scrub the ring. Scrub from different angles in order to reach every crevice of the setting, but do not force the brush's bristles into tight spaces where they may get stuck or snagged.

• Polishing

While any of these cleaning methods can help keep your ring looking lovely and fresh, one cleaning option should always be avoided with antique or vintage engagement rings or any type of antique jewelry. Never deeply polish the whole ring, (you can polish the shank). It has taken decades, and in some instance centuries, to have that unique look and you may remove the delicate antique patina that has developed over time.

• Sustainability and Eco-Friendly

Many couples are seeking antique or vintage rings as their popularity has grown due to the social awareness of the mounted stones. Old European and mine cut diamonds are non-conflict stones having originated long before modern conflicts and blood diamonds originated, so there is no further damage to the environment.

• Celebrity Symbolism

For those who love the glamour of Hollywood, you can enjoy an antique engagement ring knowing it is a favorite of many celebrities. This style has adorned the fingers of top names including Natalie Portman and Ashley Simpson.

Choosing an Engagement Ring

An antique or vintage ring is a stunning choice for any couple, with distinctive styles and traits and also a rich, conflict-free history. Yet there are many challenges in finding the ring that is best suited for you. There are a variety of reasons for choosing an antique ring, whether its the allure of pure symbolism representing your individuality, or maybe it is a budget friendly option, or simply your love for the beauty of it. No matter the reason, we are confident you will find the perfect ring that will last you a lifetime.

ANTIQUE ENGAGEMENT RINGS FOR EVERYONE:

No matter which gemstone is your favorite, these time-honored gemstones 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:

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

SUZANNE SACHS

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you – your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.

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