Many Antique Engagement Rings Lack Gemstone Settings

The market for antique engagement rings may be somewhat confusing, with many people convinced they have to contain diamonds. Most engagement rings, especially in the western art of the world, and in many European countries consisted mostly of metal bands of gold and silver. Although etchings and in are cases the birthstones of the couple and their parents adorn some engagement rings, the use of diamonds in engagements rings did not gain wide acceptance in around 1940.

The earliest antique engagement rings vary by style and design and were made primarily of metals such as gold, silver and brass, although some of the lesser value rings were made of copper or brass. The intricate designs and cuts in the metal were the result of the craftsman’s ability to work with a particular metal. Such intricacies required a steady hand and an eye for unusual designs as well as special tools unique to the jewelry industry.

Modern materials such as titanium and stainless steel require special equipment and tools due to their strength. Tools used over 50 years ago were not capable of producing rings of this type, and while there may be replicas of antique engagement rings made of these materials, they are not considered anything more than reproductions of old jewelry.

Determine What Justifies Antique Status

One of the toughest thing about antique rings is determining the age at which a ring achieves antique status. There are different notions as to what antique engagement rings are supposed to look like. For many the material of which it is made will determine its status as antique. While many may share some of the original designs and work as older rings, they may not be considered antique by some collectors.

Other use age to determine the title of antique and the seller may have their own opinion of when to call a ring antique. One thing to consider when looking for antique engagement rings is the time period during which it was crafted and whether it was crafted by hand or machine. Many earlier designs may have been mass produced by machines and while they may be old enough to be considered antique, due to the process in their making, will not have the status.

The other term to consider is collectable as many rings may be considered antique, or just old, but are not sought by collectors. Simply because a ring may be an antique by age, their status as a collectable antique ring may be lost because of its overall appearance.