A Guide to Vintage Inspired Engagement Rings

Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. If you're planning on getting wed, you could cover the old and new parts in one fell swoop with a vintage-inspired engagement ring.

What is a Vintage-Inspired Engagement Ring?

The term “vintage engagement ring” is often applied to any ring that's over twenty years old; however, many believe a ring isn't vintage until it's at least fifty years old. The term “vintage-inspired” engagement ring is typically used to describe rings that look and feel old but are shiny and new!

The History of Vintage Style Engagement Rings

Whether you're seeking a Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, retro ring, or something more modern, an engagement ring should be special. Let's check out the vintage engagement ring timeline:

Victorian Era

The tradition of giving an engagement ring became more widespread during the Victorian era, when the growing middle class embraced the idea of diamond engagement rings. By the late 1800s, the diamond solitaire style had emerged as a symbol of timeless elegance and romance. Rings from this period often featured intertwined designs and clustered diamonds to represent union and togetherness. Today, vintage Victorian engagement rings remain popular for their ornate details and sentimental symbolism.

Edwardian Era

In Edwardian times, 18-carat yellow gold rings became popular, and in 1903, jewelers began to work with platinum too. Designs became more intricate and featured filigree patterns, scrolls, and laurel leaves.

Art Deco Era

The 1920s saw the arrival of the Art Deco era. Platinum and white gold came into fashion, and gem-cutting techniques included caliber-cut gemstones and diamond baguettes. Engagement rings were typically bold, featuring geometric designs and prominent stones (diamonds and colored gems).

Post-War / Retro Era

During the post-war period, economic austerity influenced engagement ring styles, leading many jewelers to use more affordable gemstones. As the industry recovered, diamonds gradually regained prominence—helped by highly influential advertising that positioned them as the ultimate symbol of lasting commitment. Engagement rings from this era often featured 18-carat white or yellow gold, and platinum eventually made a strong return as prosperity increased.

1960's 70s & 80s

In the 1960s and 70s, princess-cut stones came into their own, along with cluster engagement rings featuring large stones bordered by smaller ones. The 1980's laid claim to the oval diamond and sapphire ring (made famous by Lady Diana), and colored gemstones were a hit too.

Modern Day Engagement Rings

Today’s engagement ring landscape is more diverse than ever, offering endless choices in styles, cuts, metals, and gemstones. Vintage-inspired designs remain especially admired for their timeless elegance and craftsmanship. The classic diamond solitaire—introduced more than a century ago—continues to be one of the most beloved and enduring styles, proving that simplicity and sophistication never go out of fashion.

Antique vs. Vintage Engagement Rings

“Antique” and “Vintage” are terms you often come across when browsing jewelry, but the two aren't the same. The description “antique ring” usually refers to rings that are no less than a hundred years old. As we've already mentioned, the term vintage is typically applied to rings over twenty years old.

Who Wears Vintage and Antique Inspired Engagement Rings?

Antique-looking engagement rings look fabulously stylish and are favored by brides-to-be of all ages. The classic elegance of vintage engagement rings - diamond, emerald, ruby, and sapphire stand the test of time well and will look just as stunning in years to come.

Popular Metals for Vintage Engagement Rings

Looking for a vintage engagement ring? Classic yellow gold rings are ageless and the precious metal symbolizes strength, wealth, warmth, and love.

Yellow gold and white gold are popular choices, but vintage-style engagement rings crafted in rose gold and platinum are just as desirable.

Choosing A Vintage Engagement Ring Gemstone

They say diamonds are a girl's best friend and vintage-style diamond engagement rings will always be in fashion, whether they are fashioned from natural diamonds or lab diamonds. However, other gemstones also look striking in vintage engagement rings. Sapphire and ruby are exquisite choices, but if you are hankering after a unique vintage engagement ring, emerald could be perfect for you.

Vintage Engagement Rings - Diamond Center Shapes

Diamond engagement rings will forever be associated with eternal love, and you'll find diamonds in a range of shapes, including cushion, princess, pear, asscher, emerald, oval, round, marquise, and radiant.

Vintage Looking Engagement Ring Vs Modern Engagement Rings

Modern engagement rings are dazzling, but a unique vintage engagement ring boasts distinctive looks and character. A vintage-looking engagement ring combines newness and sparkle with the charm of an antique item.

With Clarity Engagement Rings

Let's take a look at a handful of beautiful rings available from With Clarity. Each of the rings featured is available in 14kt or 18kt white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum. You can also choose a natural diamond (100% earth-created and GIA certified) or a lab diamond (same good looks and chemical properties as a natural stone, but more affordable).

Traditional Pave Diamond Engagement Ring

The Traditional Pave Diamond Engagement Ring boasts a dazzling diamond with a hint of 0.10 cts accent diamonds. This beautiful ring has a pavé setting (small diamonds on the band) and is available in a range of shapes, including round, princess, radiant, pear, cushion, asscher, emerald, marquise, and oval.

Ridged Pave Diamond Engagement Ring

A striking Ridged Pave Diamond Engagement Ring which boasts a round diamond shape. The impressive center stone is bright and bold, so it has an Art Deco feel. The 0.10 cts of pave set accent diamonds are raised and ridged, ensuring they stand out for all to see.

Floral Diamond Engagement Ring

Featuring milgraining and floral carvings associated with the Edwardian era, the Floral Diamond Engagement Ring features 0.30 cts of paved diamonds to accompany the glittering central stone.

Under Bezeled Accent Diamond Engagement Ring

Pretty as a picture, the Under Bezeled Accent Diamond Engagement Ring has pavé diamonds that appear to float around the central diamond (choose from a round, princess, asscher, marquise, or oval shape).

Three Stone Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring

Bezel settings wrap each diamond protectively and are in keeping with the vintage style. As the name suggests, the Three Stone Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring features a trio of beautiful stones, perfectly accented by baguette gems.