Antique engagement rings give you the opportunity to find rare and beautiful styles that can make the woman in your life feel truly special. In some cases, they also give you the opportunity to save money over current retail prices from upscale retailers like Cartier or Tiffany. In other cases, however, you may be looking at higher prices for fine jewelry that has increased in value over time. If you are buying an antique engagement ring, you should be aware of what are commonly called the Four Cs of diamonds: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. All of these contribute to the value of a diamond, and you'll want certification of any diamond that you purchase. The most prominent names in diamond certification are international gemological labs that work independently: IGI, GIA, AGS, and EGL are among the most well-known. Anyone selling you a diamond should be able to provide certification from one of these institutions. If there is a particular style of antique jewelry that you like, you should consider whether you want an actual vintage piece or are happy with a modern version. Many jewelers still make Victorian, Edwardian, or Art Deco style rings. Some are replicas of famous pieces, while others are simply inspired by these gorgeous traditions. Another possibility to consider is having a diamond that you already own placed in an antique setting that you buy--or vice versa. If you choose to do this, it is of the utmost important to work with a jeweler who can offer materials of comparable quality and craftsmanship. If possible, you may also want to find out any historical information about the antique engagement rings you're interested in from the seller. Your ring may have an interesting backstory that lends to its charm! |
