Image Source: Rebecca R.
So, your shopping for antique engagement rings. This is an exciting time. However, make sure that you go into your shopping trip prepared to see the big picture, and not just the pretty ring in front of you.Why is this important? If you can remove the romance of the ring, you will see that you are essentially buying a used piece of jewelry. It is comparable to buying a classic car. It's gorgeous. It's a slice of history. It's unique. But, like a classic car, it's not meant to hold up to daily wear and tear. Now, that doesn't mean that you shouldn't buy your dream ring. Rather, it means you should go into the purchase prepared.
#1 Tip For Buying Antique Engagement Rings:How was the ring made?The reason this question is number one is because it is so important! There are two main types of jewelry making techniques, cast and die struck. The former is a low pressure method that is cost efficient and makes jewelry accessible to a wide audience or shoppers. The latter is more expensive, but it is far denser and will hold up to the test of time greater than any other type of jewelry. It is an heirloom quality method of jewelry making.A ring that is made using the die struck method uses force to compress the metal into the desired form, making if more durable, and, therefore, longer lasting. When you are shopping be sure to ask your estate jeweler how the ring was made. It it's not die struck keep looking because you want this ring to last for generations to come.
#2 Tip For Buying Antique Engagement Rings:How is the condition of the ring?This point relates to #1, the overall quality of the ring is important regardless of how it's made. For example, if the ring has had a dozen or more sizings it will weaken the structural integrity of the piece. Here are some warning signs:
- A shadow in the metal at the base of the band will indicate sizing (as will any ripples or lines).
- Make sure the prongs are covering and touching the stone.
- Missing stones will indicate that the ring has not been well maintained. If the ring had been maintained the stones would not be missing. The prong tips would have been inspected, the tips reworked, and cracked prongs replaced.
#3 Tip For Buying Antique Engagement Rings:Would a reproduction ring make more sense? Sometimes you can get a ring that fits your vision better (with the quality you want) if you shop for reproduction antique engagement rings. Here are some tips to buying a new ring that looks like the antique engagement rings you love.
- Choose The Right Motif - Millgraining, wheat or scroll patterns, or Art Nouveau details like palm leaves are a great way to get the look you want.
- Consider An Engagement Ring with Gemstones - Some of the most beautiful antique engagement rings have sapphires, emeralds, or rubies. Look for engagement rings that can include these stones and you will love your new ring.
- Look For Hand Engraved Details - hand engraving is different from the engravings we commonly see today. These embellishments are applied by hand with the expertise of an actual artist. Here is more info on hand engraving.
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