Choosing an engagement ring is one of life’s most important moments. But if you’ve ever felt a little overwhelmed by terms like antique, vintage, platinum, or halo setting, you’re not alone.
That’s exactly why so many couples find themselves drawn to antique engagement rings. These rings are meaningful, unique, and are unlike anything you’ll find in the current market.
Let’s walk through how to choose one you’ll love with confidence, whether you’re planning a surprise or a couple shopping together.
Why choose vintage engagement rings?
One of the main concerns people have when shopping for an engagement ring, is ensuring your partner won’t have the same ring as everyone else. You want it to be special and as unique as the bond you share.
They’re one-of-a-kind. With antique jewellery, each piece has its own personality, shaped by the era it was made in. The individuality of these rings, they’re set apart from modern, mass-produced options.
They carry history. Your engagement ring will have already lived a life before it’s set on your partner’s hand, proving it can stand the test of time. It doesn’t just mark your engagement; it connects past and future.
They’re often more sustainable. Choosing pre-loved jewellery gives new life to existing treasures rather than creating new material waste.
And yes, they can be surprisingly versatile. Whether you want a classic solitaire or something with colourful stones and intricate detail, there’s a vintage ring out there for your loved one.
What do I need to know about gemstones, settings and metals?
This is the part where it can feel technical, but it’s just another opportunity to make the ring feel personalised.
Gemstones
- Diamond rings are the most traditional choice, they’ve got brilliance and timelessness.
- Sapphires, rubies, emeralds and other gemstone rings can express personality and colour, ideal if your partner loves something distinct or symbolic.
Settings
- Solitaire: A stone on a simple band, it’s classic, clean and lets a centre stone shine.
- Halo: A central stone surrounded by lots of smaller stones, adds lots of sparkle.
- Cluster: Lots of stones paired closely together to create a playful and intricate look.
Metal
- Platinum: Durable and hypoallergenic, platinum gives a silvery shine that will last for decades. We recommend a vintage platinum ring for those who prefer silver jewellery.
- Gold: Available in white or yellow varieties, gold is popular in Victorian pieces and comes in different carat options.
Take cues from the jewellery your partner already wears: do they wear cool tones (platinum/white gold) or warmer metals (yellow/rose gold)? Is all their jewellery simply gold or silver, or do they like to incorporate colour? Do they prefer simple or more intricate designs? These simple observations can be a huge help.
How do I know which engagement ring size to get?
Getting the right size can feel tricky, especially if it’s a surprise. Here’s what we recommend:
- Find one of your partner’s existing rings and have it measured by a local jeweller.
- Alternatively, use a string or ribbon around the finger and measure the length against our ring size guide.
We’ve got a handy video on our Instagram which gives a tutorial on how to measure ring sizes using ribbon.
Which era should I buy my antique engagement ring from?
Not sure what to explore first? Thinking about personality instead of dates helps it make sense.
Victorian (c.1837-1901)
Romantic, ornate and sentimental. These antique engagement rings often feature floral motifs, clusters of stones, and warming yellow or rose gold. Perfect if you want a ring with some emotional depth.
Edwardian (1901-1915)
Delicate and elegant, Edwardian rings are often crafted in platinum with graceful details like lace-like filigree and milgrain edges. Ideal if you love timeless refinement.
Art Deco Engagement Rings (1920s-1930s)
If you’re drawn to bold geometry and striking contrast, Art Deco engagement rings are for you. Platinum and white gold were popular during this time and designs often emphasise symmetry and architectural flair.
Georgian Rings (1714-1830)
These rings often feature old-cut diamonds or coloured gemstones with closed-back settings that give the stones a soft, candlelit glow. If you want a ring that feels impossible to replicate, Georgian rings are hard to rival.
Making the decision of a lifetime with Lancastrian Jewellers
The best engagement ring isn’t necessarily the most expensive, trendiest, or oldest. It’s the one that feels personal.
Maybe that’s a vintage diamond ring with a romantic halo setting. Maybe it’s a striking vintage platinum ring with geometric Art Deco lines. Or maybe it’s a coloured gemstone that reflects your partner’s personality.
Whatever you choose, we’re her to help along every step of the way. Discreet, secure packaging, advice available on request, and certified, high-quality rings are just a few reasons to choose Lancastrian Jewellers for your antique ring.
Want to learn more about any of the rings on our site? Get in touch.
