Edwardian Antique Engagement Rings

One of the more popular periods for jewelry was between 1900 and 1920 when the oxyacetylene torch was first used to make intricate designs on the metal setting. Its use with platinum bands and a variety of stones helped some of the most intricate Edwardian antique engagement rings remain popular, even today.

In today’s jewelry, diamonds are the most popular, but they were not always high on the list for rings, and jade, opal and pearls were often in the Edwardian antique engagement rings settings. Techniques of examining the stones have also vastly improved over the past century and white diamonds, once considered to be near perfect, are found to have hidden flaws, that went undetectable in the past.

Additionally, some of the softer gemstones used in Edwardian antique engagement rings may have developed internal cracks or other damage over the years, which will affect their value, but not necessarily their intrinsic value. Regardless of the stones perfection or the color, the most important aspect of Edwardian antique engagement rings is that the couple buying it is happy with the item.

Platinum Was Popular Choice For Setting

During the early part of the 2oth century, platinum was rapidly overshadowing gold in use as a wedding band. Its grayish-white color was often confused with silver and it durability would outlast gold at a considerably less cost. Edwardian antique engagement rings often were made with platinum as the malleability of the metal improved and the use of the oxyacetylene torch made it quicker and easier.

Although the more feminine style rings were part of the 65-year run in the Victorian era of jewelry, Edwardian antique engagement rings also showed plenty of detail and were not massed produced, enabling a person to own an item totally unique. There were never two exactly alike as each one was individually crafted by hand. The corrosion and wear resistance of platinum that makes is valuable in industrial settings also makes it valuable in jewelry as it maintains its shape better than gold and will not lose metal when cleaned.

Those considering buying Edwardian antique engagement rings should carefully look at the craftsmanship as original items from this era are very intricately designed. While the price may seem higher than rings from other eras, to have one made in the Edwardian style by a craftsman today, would most likely cost considerably more than buying Edwardian antique engagement rings, principally due to the amount of design work involved in the setting.