Vintage, Antique, and Estate Rings

Its very easy to get confused with ring jargon - especially when it comes to the difference between vintage, antique, and estate rings. Here's the lowdown...who knew?

- A "vintage" ring can mean different things to different jewelers. Some use it as a a catch-all term meaning "an old ring", while others use it to mean a ring that was made to look like it was from another era.
-An "estate" ring is anything less than 50 years old
-An "antique" ring specifically refers to one over 50 years old.

Victorian Antique Rings (1835-1900): Often set in yellow or rose gold, Victorian antiques have both simple elegant designs to very intricate ones. Many Victorian settings feature rows of diamonds, cut with an extra facet on the bottom (Called "mine cut").
Edwardian Antique Rings (1900-1920): Platinum became popular! Rings often had lacy and pierced shapes, milgraining, scrollwork, and filigree detail (details that suggests a lace pattern) on the mountings. Rose-cut diamonds and brilliant sapphires became popular.
Art Deco (1920-1930): Characterized by colorful, contrasting gemstones, geometric designs, and platinum, diamond packed rings for a glittering streamlined look (think Chrysler Building). Art Deco rings are currently the most popular antique engagement rings for newly engaged couples.

Here's a look at Madonna's engagement ring to Guy Ritchie...an Edwardian style "vintage".

Cut: Round Brilliant

Carat: 5 carat

Setting: 3 stone Edwardian style vintage ring with milgrain detail

Jeweler: Neil Lane

About this ring: Madonna was one of the first celebrities to wear a three stone engagement ring. Ritchie had this one of a kind ring made especially for her.

Comments

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This blog is very informative to me as I'm very fond of collecting information about different types of old and new rings.This three stone ring is awesome and Madonna is so lucky to be the first for getting this type of ring.

Posted by: rings | 08/22/2010 at 11:41 PM