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The Best Vintage Engagement Rings + Complete Buyer’s Guide

Fashion + Beauty // March 31, 2022
collection of vintage engagement rings
photo: Sarah O. Jewelry

Antique and vintage engagement rings are made for those who want to stand out. With many vintage and antique styles having been design decades (if not centuries!) ago, you’re not only getting a slice of history, but there’s a good chance you’re getting something that’s totally unique and one-of-a-kind.

Let’s be honest, how cool is it to know that you’re the only person wearing your specific style of antique or vintage engagement ring? When it comes to finding the perfect ring, there are plenty of eras to choose from, including the Georgian (1714 – 1830), Victorian (1837 – 1901), Edwardian (1901 – 1914), Art Nouveau (1890 – 1914), and Art Deco (1920 – 1935) time periods.

Not only will we share our favorite vintage (and vintage-inspired!) engagement rings in this guide, but we’ll also answer some of the most important questions you should be asking yourself if you’re considering one of these beauties.

Green Wedding Shoe’s product selections are curated by the editorial team. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. If you would like to support GWS, please consider shopping through our links!

Antique vs Vintage Engagement Rings – What’s the Difference?

eclectic antique and vintage engagement rings
photo: Grandma’s Jewellery Box

The rule of thumb is this: antique engagement rings are typically rings that are at least 100 years old. When it comes to vintage, the definition will vary, depending on who you talk to. Some retailers define vintage engagement rings as ones that are over 20 years old, whereas others define it as 40 years or older.

All of this to say, there is a difference between vintage vs antique, with antique rings being older in age. When narrowing down your engagement ring of choice, we always recommend looking for design era information (or even a specific design date) from the retailer. When buying an antique engagement ring, you’ll want to ensure it’s authentic.

The Sustainability of Buying Antique + Vintage Engagement Rings

notebook sketch of ruby vintage engagement rings
photo: Jewellery Box d’un Petit Cœur

It’s easy to forget, but authentic antique and vintage engagement rings are secondhand rings. Which means they’re an extraordinarily sustainable option for the eco-conscious buyer.

No new ring has to be manufactured and no new stones have to be mined. And on top of that, you get to wear a little piece of history. It really doesn’t get any better.

Maintenance and Care of Antique and Vintage Engagement Rings

elaborate Art Deco diamond vintage engagement ring sitting inside a peach color blooming flower
photo: Anna Delores Photography, as seen in this brunch wedding inspiration

It’s important to note that if you’re buying an authentic antique or vintage engagement ring, you’re buying an older piece of jewelry that will likely require gentler care and more maintenance. You should be aware of the condition of the piece before purchasing. And it’s equally important to make sure you check in with the jeweler on the best ways to clean and maintain your ring going forward.

The older your antique or vintage engagement ring, the more delicate it likely will be. It’s to be expected, but it’s certainly one thing to consider before purchasing.

If you love the antique or vintage look, but perhaps don’t want to deal with the higher maintenance, we highly recommend vintage-inspired rings. These are new rings that incorporate many of the vintage design elements, like flourishes (Art Nouveau era), floral details (Edwardian era), and sharp geometric shapes (Art Deco era). And don’t worry, we’ve included plenty of those vintage-inspired designs in this guide, too!

Do Antique and Vintage Engagement Rings Cost More Than Their Modern Counterparts?

white gold vintage Art Deco engagement rings sitting in a turquoise velvet ring box
photo: the Poffs, as seen in this greenery-inspired styled wedding

There is more that goes into the price of an engagement ring than simply its age. Factors like the 4 C’s for diamonds, along with choice of metals for the bands, will all have an impact on price. For example, all things being equal, an 18K yellow gold ring will be pricier than a 14K yellow gold ring. And a stone with minimal inclusions will be more expensive than one with extensive inclusions. Furthermore, there are some gemstones, like sapphires and emeralds, that are known for keeping their value better than other stones.

That said, the older your antique or vintage engagement ring, the more likely it is that someone won’t be able to find the same ring elsewhere. It’s a simply a matter of basic economics. Smaller supply drives up the price. So all things constant, a one-of-a-kind antique or vintage band will command a higher price point (and they will continue to do so the older they get).

However, you also need to take into consideration the condition of the antique or vintage engagement ring you’re buying. A vintage ring in very poor condition isn’t necessarily going to command a higher price than a comparable new ring in excellent condition.

Vintage Art Deco Engagement Rings

sunburst style Art Deco vintage engagement rings
photo: Sarah Pukin Photography, as seen in this neutral wedding inspiration

The Art Deco era is probably the most popular when it comes to vintage engagement rings. You’ll find plenty of modern-day ring designers creating Art Deco-inspired bands that mimic the iconic styles of this era. Expect to see sharp angles and geometric shapes in this style. It’s bold, punchy, and a total statement.

1: Authentic Art Deco Platinum Vintage Engagement Ring

authentic Art Deco platinum and diamond vintage engagement rings

Art Deco engagement rings know how to make a statement. This gorgeous platinum band features bold, geometric shapes and a stunning cluster of diamonds that is sure to catch the eye. And the attention to detail with the organic curves on the edges and the milgrain detail are a classic vintage detail we love.

shop the Art Deco platinum vintage ring

2: Elongated Geometric Art Deco Vintage Inspired Band

tall geometric Art Deco inspired diamond vintage engagement ring with milgrain details

This Art Deco inspired engagement ring is covered in glitz and glam. It incorporates the iconic tall, elongated style that was so popular in this era, and features the prettiest collection of round cut diamonds that would basically shine from a mile away.

shop the elongated vintage-inspired Art Deco ring

3: Authentic 1930’s Art Deco Bezel Set Diamond Vintage Engagement Ring

authentic Art Deco platinum vintage engagement rings with a round cut center stone

The old European round cut diamond center stone on this Art Deco engagement ring is a true thing of beauty. And the milgrain bezel set makes it even more striking. Pair it with the gorgeous engraving details on the band, and you have yourself one of the prettiest round cut platinum rings we’ve ever seen

shop the round cut diamond Art Deco vintage ring

Antique Engagement Rings

three stone diamond Victorian antique engagement ring with a yellow gold band
ring: 1st Dibs

Remember, when shopping for antique engagement rings, you’re looking at rings that are at least 100 years old. That covers all of the design eras we’ve talked about, with Art Deco still being on the cusp. Antique engagement rings are very much keepsakes.

4: Authentic Early 1900’s Art Nouveau Antique Engagement Ring

vous et moi authentic Art Nouveau antique diamond engagement ring with a floral inspired design

Have you ever seen an engagement band shape as unique as this one?! The Art Nouveau era is known for its curves and flourishes, so naturally this antique engagement ring has fully embraced that design style. This ring dates back to the 1910’s, yet it has a timeless quality that looks gorgeous today too.

shop the authentic Art Nouveau Antique engagement ring

5: Authentic 1800’s Victorian Antique Engagement Ring

Victorian crowned heart diamond antique engagement rings

One of the older bands on this list, this gorgeous Victorian antique engagement ring dates back to 1870. Yes, you heard that right. This vintage beauty is over 150 years old. It embraces a crowned heart shape, with the prettiest silvery diamonds.

shop the authentic late 1800s Victorian antique engagement ring

Vintage Rose Gold Engagement Rings

pearl and rose cut diamond halo antique Edwardian vintage engagement rings
ring: 1st Dibs

Rose gold is known as a very romantic metal, which makes it especially intriguing for vintage engagement rings. There’s nothing quite like the combo of romantic colors and historic, romantic styles.

6: Regal Rose Gold Halo Vintage-Inspired Diamond Engagement Ring

oval vintage halo engagement rings with rose gold band

This beauty is a perfect example of embracing the vintage style, but with a completely new engagement ring. It incorporates an ultra-detailed halo, with a regal floral crown-like appearance. Talk about a total conversation piece.

shop the regal halo vintage-inspired diamond ring

7: Rose Gold Victorian Era Ring

Victorian era vintage inspired diamond engagement ring with ornate filigree detailing

The ornate filigree detailing on this ring is serious GOALS. We love the way this diamond engagement ring embraces the classic Victorian style elements and aesthetic. Organic, nature-inspired details are everywhere, and we couldn’t love it more.

shop the Victorian era vintage inspired ring

8: Morganite Art Deco Vintage Inspired Engagement Ring

morganite and diamond accented Art Deco inspired vintage engagement rings

This lovely vintage inspired engagement ring can double as a wedding band, too. It embraces the glamor of the Art Deco era, with a plethora of morganite and diamond stones. And the rose gold band is utterly romantic.

shop the morganite Art Deco vintage inspired ring

Vintage Edwardian Engagement Rings

vintage Edwardian engagement rings sitting on a delicate white lace backdrop
photo: Michelle Roller Photography, as seen in this edgy, modern wedding inspiration

Edwardian rings are known for their feminine aesthetic. You’ll also commonly find floral and ornate milgrain detailing in these rings. They have a sort of movement to them that’s utterly whimsical and ethereal.

9: White Gold Solitaire Antique Diamond Edwardian Engagement Ring

white gold solitaire diamond antique Edwardian vintage engagement rings

The solitaire round cut old European diamond on this stunning Edwardian engagement ring is mesmerizing, to say the least. And the feminine engravings framing either side of it make for the ideal canvas. This ring dates back to 1915, so you’re getting an authentic antique keepsake.

shop the solitaire antique Edwardian engagement ring

10: Aquamarine + Diamond Ornate Antique Edwardian Engagement Ring

authentic aquamarine and diamond antique Edwardian vintage engagement rings

The cutouts on this lovely antique Edwardian engagement ring are truly breathtaking. The design gives this vintage engagement ring a floral vibe that beautifully frames the aquamarine center stone.

shop the aquamarine + diamond Edwardian vintage ring

11: Dreamy Opal + Diamond Vintage Edwardian Engagement Ring

opal and diamond Edwardian vintage engagement rings

It goes without saying that opals are some of the dreamiest stones for engagement rings. And this Edwardian vintage cluster band incorporates three of them, along with a collection of gorgeous round cut diamonds. And that milgrain setting detail?! So good.

shop the opal Edwardian vintage ring

Vintage Victorian Engagement Rings

authentic diamond antique Victorian engagement ring with floral gold setting
ring: 1st Dibs

Victorian engagement rings are known for their imitation of the natural world. You’ll notice organic curvatures and nature-inspired designs here. In that respect, there are certainly some overlaps between vintage Edwardian engagement rings and those of the Victorian era.

12: Authentic Amethyst + Diamond Vintage Victorian Engagement Ring

authentic antique diamond and amethyst floral style vintage Victorian engagement rings

Speaking of imitating the natural world, this vintage Victorian engagement ring totally embraces that, with a floral design style made of a gorgeous amethyst center stone and a lovely diamond halo. And this beauty dates back to 1860, making it an authentic antique engagement ring.

shop the amethyst + diamond vintage Victorian ring

13: Authentic 1860’s Garnet Antique Victorian Engagement Ring

authentic antique garnet and gold banded Victorian vintage engagement rings

Scrolls and detailed engravings make this ornate 1866 antique Victorian engagement ring a total stunner. They just don’t make them like this anymore. The band incorporates three lovely garnet stones in the center, along with little emerald dots on either side, making for a super colorful and eclectic ring.

shop the garnet victorian vintage ring

14: Authentic Swirling Three Stone Vintage Victorian Engagement Ring

gold banded three stone antique Victorian vintage engagement rings

Three stone rings are a total classic, but we love this swirling asymmetrical take on the design. Leave it up to an authentic antique Victorian design to pull that off.

shop the swirling three stone Victorian vintage ring

Diamond Vintage Engagement Rings

bride wearing a Victorian style vintage engagement ring
photo: Amy Caroline Photography | ring: Sarah O. Jewelry

Diamond engagement rings can be traced back all the way to the late 1400s, so it’s no wonder that there are plenty of gorgeous diamond vintage engagement rings. It’s a classic stone with a classic aesthetic.

15: Two Tone Cushion Cut Victorian Diamond Vintage Engagement Ring

two tone platinum and yellow gold authentic Victorian antique diamond vintage band

One of the things we love about antique and vintage engagement rings is how many of them incorporate a two-tone band design. This specific Victorian ring incorporates both platinum and yellow gold, with the most gorgeous diamonds in the center. And naturally, being designed in the 1890’s, it incorporates that classic Victorian design, with ornate, nature-inspired elements.

shop the cushion cut Victorian diamond vintage ring

16: 1910’s Cocktail Style Edwardian Diamond Vintage Band

woman wearing an authentic antique cocktail style Edwardian diamond vintage engagement ring with blue stone accents

If you love a dramatic, statement look, cocktail style diamond vintage engagement rings are for you. The cocktail style is known for being large, chunky, and bold. And this lovely diamond and sapphire beaut is no exception. We love the framing details of this Edwardian stunner and the mixture of gold in the band with the cooler tone stones.

shop the cocktail style Edwardian diamond vintage ring

17: Edwardian Onyx + Diamond Vintage Engagement Ring

Edwardian onyx and diamond vintage engagement rings with yellow and white gold band

Need a little mood and edge on your vintage engagement ring? This ornate antique Edwardian band is going to blow you away. It features a lovely oval plate-like symmetrical design, covered in diamonds and black onyx. It’s equal parts elegant and moody. We approve.

shop the Edwardian onyx + diamond vintage ring

Bohemian Vintage Engagement Rings

bohemian vintage engagement rings sitting in a vibrant blue velvet ring box
photo: Katelyn Vines Photography, as seen in this southern summer wedding inspiration

We love the way vintage-inspired engagement rings are embracing classic vintage themes and features, along with today’s popular bohemian style. This meshing of styles is truly gorgeous.

18: Sunshine Bohemian Vintage Inspired Engagement Ring Set

sunshine inspired sunburst style bohemian vintage engagement rings set

We love that this bohemian vintage inspired engagement ring actually has a matching band to go with it. We love the subtle Art Deco influences on the band, with an almost sunburst-esque design.

shop the sunshine bohemian vintage inspired ring set

19: Bohemian Vintage Inspired Emerald Band

green and yellow gold bohemian vintage engagement rings sitting in a white velvet ring box

This lovely oval vintage inspired engagement band is giving us all the regal vibes. It incorporates a plate-like geometric halo that’s a nod to the Art Deco era. The milgrain detailing and diamond side stones feel ultra boho. And then the oval shaped center stone exudes romance. It’s the perfect combination.

shop the bohemian vintage inspired emerald band

Art Deco vintage emerald engagement rings set

Let’s be honest, emeralds are beyond dreamy. So we’ve rounded up our fave rings incorporating emerald stones.

Vintage Oval Engagement Rings

vintage oval engagement rings with diamond accents sitting on a pedestal
ring: Staghead Designs

Oval cut stones have a romantic and timeless look that makes them the perfect companion for a vintage inspired ring setting. The oval shape has a way of elongating the ring finger in a gorgeous and flattering way.

20: Floral Vintage Inspired Oval Band

floral nature inspired oval vintage engagement ring with leaf band design

You’ve probably already noticed that many antique and vintage engagement rings incorporate aspects of the natural world into their designs. Particularly those that come from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. And this east-west oval vintage inspired band is a nod to that classic antique aesthetic. Its delicate leaf design band is absolutely breathtaking.

shop the floral vintage inspired oval ring

21: French Mirror-Inspired Oval Vintage Style Band

French mirror style solitaire diamond vintage inspired engagement rings

We’re pretty confident that with a gorgeous vintage inspired oval diamond engagement ring like this one, you’ll want to spend all your days staring into it. Which totally makes sense, given its design is intended to mirror the design and aesthetic of a French style mirror.

shop the French mirror vintage inspired ring

22: Vintage 1920’s Art Deco Oval Green Goddess Band

green authentic Art Deco vintage oval engagement ring with a yellow gold band

Get ready to be swept off your feet. Because we’re pretty certain this green goddess 1920’s Art Deco vintage engagement ring is going to completely mesmerize you. The yellow gold band absolutely pops against the diamond halo and green center stone. We’re fairly certain we’ll be dreaming about this beauty tonight.

shop the vintage Art Deco oval ring

Vintage Halo Engagement Rings

moody vintage round cut halo engagement ring sitting in a mustard yellow velvet ring box
photo: Lilly Red Creative, as seen in this Lake Como elopement

You’ve probably noticed that antique and vintage engagement rings tend to be very detail-oriented. Milgrain detail, flourishes, curves, and the like are in no shortage here! So it’s only natural that many vintage-inspired designs also incorporate some sort of halo surround.

23: Lab Created Alexandrite Vintage Inspired Halo Engagement Ring

round cut alexandrite and gold banded vintage halo engagement rings

This gorgeous vintage-inspired alexandrite engagement ring features the prettiest gold floral halo that’s reminiscent of a Victorian style band. And the alexandrite is actually lab grown, which means it doesn’t have the mining impact of a traditional stone. Now that’s something we can get behind!

shop the alexandrite vintage inspired halo ring

v shaped signature ring from VRAI with a round cut lab diamond

Curious about lab grown stones? We’ve done a deep-dive on everything you need to know about lab grown diamonds.

24: Elaborate White Gold + Diamond Halo Vintage Inspired Band

elaborate white gold vintage inspired engagement ring with an oval diamond bezel set center stone

Another gorgeous vintage-inspired diamond engagement ring! This lovely oval band features a super intricate geometric floral halo surround that feels like a blend between Art Deco and Victorian styles.

shop the white gold diamond halo vintage inspired ring

25: Solitaire Oval Milgrain Halo Vintage Inspired Engagement Ring

woman wearing an oval diamond milgrain halo vintage engagement ring with a yellow gold band

Who said a halo has to have stones on it?! This gorgeous diamond vintage inspired engagement ring embraces a simple solitaire design. But the milgrain halo detail feels reminiscent of times past.

shop the milgrain halo vintage inspired band

Vintage Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

diamond and black onyx vintage inspired engagement ring with a regal halo and double bank thickness
ring: Staghead Designs

The emerald cut has a way of making your stone look even larger than it is. It has a bold and punchy effect, which is why it was a popular choice during the Art Deco era (and why it’s having such a moment right now!).

26: Staggered Diamond Art Deco Vintage Band

woman modeling an authentic staggered multi diamond Art Deco vintage engagement ring

In classic Art Deco fashion, this gorgeous vintage engagement ring embraces all the shine and sparkle. The staggered seven diamond design is complete and utter magic. And the sharp angles of the emerald cut only serve to enhance that.

shop the staggered diamond Art Deco vintage ring

27: Victorian Era Inspired Moissanite Band

Victorian era inspired halo vintage band

The cut on this moissanite band is gorgeously enhanced by the Victorian era nature-inspired halo surround. It exudes a delicate and whimsical vibe that feels ultra romantic.

shop the Victorian era moissanite band

gold banded lab grown moissanite rings

Curious about moissanite and its role as a diamond alternative? We’re covering everything you need to know.

Ruby Vintage Engagement Rings

mid-century style gold and ruby vintage engagement rings
ring: Hsw Jewelry Art

Like sapphire, rubies rank a 9 on the Mohs scale, which means they’re quite durable. That’s definitely a benefit, especially when you’re buying a vintage or antique engagement ring. You want something that has, and will continue, to stand the test of time. Plus, rubies are known to symbolize fiery romance, and who wouldn’t want that?!

28: Antique Victorian Floral Ruby Engagement Ring

authentic antique Victorian floral vintage ruby engagement rings

It’s the engraved band details on this authentic late 1800’s antique Victorian band that’s tugging at our heartstrings. They add a regal aesthetic to the floral ruby center stone design on this vintage engagement ring.

shop the Victorian ruby vintage ring

29: Antique Victorian Diamond + Ruby Twist Ring

authentic antique Victorian vintage diamond and ruby twist style engagement rings

The vintage three stone diamond and ruby twisted design on this ring is absolutely lovely. This authentic antique Victorian engagement band reminds us of an eye shape, which couldn’t possibly be more stunning or cool.

shop the antique Victorian ruby twist ring

Craving More Ring Inspiration?

Art Deco diamond vintage engagement ring in a round leather ring box
ring: Holts Jewellery

Writing about the best engagement rings is our fave. We have guides on basically every type of stone and ring style you can imagine. Want a ring that’s truly different and otherworldly? We’ve written all about the most unique rings.

Think you want to go the birthstone route for your engagement band? We’ve rounded up our favorite birthstone rings for every month of the year.

Can’t get enough emeralds or sapphires (or really any non-diamond ring)? SAME. We’re obsessed. Or maybe you love the romance of a rose gold engagement ring. We’ve rounded up the ultimate list of the best.

Contemplating moissanite instead of diamond, but not sure if you should make the plunge? We did the side-by-side comparison for you, with all the pros and cons you need to know about.

Explore:

  • Fashion + Beauty
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  • antique engagement rings
  • antique vs vintage
  • Art Deco engagement rings
  • bohemian vintage engagement rings
  • diamond vintage engagement rings
  • Edwardian engagement rings
  • ruby vintage engagement rings
  • Victorian engagement rings
  • vintage engagement rings
  • vintage halo engagement rings
  • vintage oval engagement rings

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