When countless Hollywood starlets get engaged with vintage engagement rings we see a surge in popularity. Our collection of vintage style engagement ring settings is in demand, especially the hand engraved rings. These new 'antique' engagement rings are a wonderful way to get the desired vintage look without the concerns of older rings; however, if you want to be authentic and shop for actual antique engagement rings, than you need to become an educated shopper. Knowing the pros and cons of antique rings is key to selecting the perfect ring for you!
Manufacturing MethodsManufacturing methods may see a little technical, but a well made ring will withstand the test of time. That means you will spend less on repairs, restorations, lost stones, etc. Plus, you can save yourself the heartbreak of loosing a symbolic piece of jewelry.
- Cast Verse Die-Struck - What is great about the die struck process in jewelry making is the density the metal is able to achieve. Cast jewelry is made using a poured low pressure method of jewelry making where die struck jewelry is made with high pressure striking methods that create a dense metal which is substantially harder and able to resist wear and tear. The overall quality of die struck jewelry is far superior. This manufacturing method becomes very apparent when you are looking at antique wedding bands and engagement rings because it has a direct impact on how the ring has aged over the years. Researching the hallmark in a potential ring may help you determine how the ring was made. Also, die struck rings tend to weigh more than their cast counter parts. Jabel die struck rings are legendary and have generations of testimony to substantiate the claim that die struck jewelry is a superior product.
- Ring Assembly - Solder points are a source of weakness on a ring but were a common place means of assembling antique rings especially antique engagement rings. Knowing how your potential antique engagement ring was made will help determine the structural integrity. A look back at Jabel's 1925 catalog helps us see that not all antique rings were made alike. The fewer the solder points the less the areas of weakness. Jabel antique engagement rings, as pictured here were made with only 3 solder points where as other manufacturers in the time period were made using 6 solder points.
Diamond BrillianceNo two diamonds are alike. Knowing how to differentiate them will not only help you spend your budget wisely, but it will help you get a stone that you will truly adore for the rest of your life.
- Old Mine Cut vs Brilliant Cut - The majority of antique engagement rings contain Mine Cut diamonds. These diamonds have large culets (the pointed bottom part of the diamond) and less facets, or cuts. The large culet creates a dark spot or window when you look at the center of the diamond. The decreased number of facets means there is less light refracting throughout the stone. Today's diamonds are made with smaller culets and a greater number of facets, the result is a truly brilliant cut stone that is lustrous and appealing to the eye. When looking to buy an antique diamond you will most likely find they all have the less desirable Mine Cut center. Selecting a vintage inspired engagement ring will give you the look of an antique with the brilliance of today's diamonds.
Matching Band DilemmaA well matched wedding band takes on a different meaning with every bride. Some prefer a flawlessly matched band that fits snug and secure, while other brides may prefer the chic look of a mix and match wedding set. What is your favorite?An Antique Wedding Band or A Custom Design Wedding Band - It can be a challenge to find the original matching antique wedding band once you select your ring, leaving you with the dilemma "do I pair it with a non-matching antique wedding band or select a new vintage inspired band to match." If you elect to buy a new band, and matching the exact design of the ring is important, you may need to design your own ring with a custom design service. Manufacturers such as Jabel have dedicated CAD/CAM custom jewelry design departments. Additional time may be required for this process.
Make It Your OwnA great alternative for a bride who wants a specific look without compromising is to design your own engagement ring (or design one for her).
- CAD/CAM Custom Jewelry Design - If you have a vision of the perfect antique engagement ring finding it may be as difficult as finding a needle in a haystack. You may have better luck if you decide to design your own engagement ring. You will be able to get the exact look; diamond shape, carat weight, etc., that you have always dreamed of with the aesthetic you desire. This process can be more time consuming so be sure to start early if you have a specific deadline in mind.
- Owning History - If history is what you are after than a reproduction vintage engagement ring will not fit the bill. When buying a truly antique engagement ring be sure to consider its condition, manufacturing and diamond quality. Likewise, be sure the romance of an antique ring out weighs the structural challenges and financial commitment it may bring.
Wear, Tear and RestorationAs we have already touched on, antique engagement rings as with all antique wedding bands can experience a broad array of structural and diamond problems. Before buying any antique wedding ring be sure to discuss any restoration and jewelry repair it may require; replacing the ring's shank, retipping the prongs on the setting, the stress of repeated sizing, etc. For engraved rings, be mindful of its manufacturing, die struck rings can often be re-rolled or hand engraved to restore the original beauty of the ring where as cast styles can not be restored with the same level replication. Jewelry repair can also become expensive so be prepared for the increased level of routine maintenance on your ring. Selecting die struck engagement rings may help alleviate the amount of long term work your ring will require.
Only you can weigh the pros and cons as well as the financial commitments every avenue of buying an antique engagement ring will bring. Can you find the exact sapphire engagement ring or the perfect antique cushion cut engagement ring in a timely manor or are you better off to design your own engagement ring with a CAD/CAM custom jewelry design department? Hopefully this article will help you weigh your options.