About Antique Rings
Antique rings are more than just jewelry: they tell stories through the eras they were made in. Crafted long before mass production became the norm, these rings were made by hand, often using techniques that are rare or even lost today.
The Craftsmanship Behind Antique Rings
One of the most fascinating things about antique rings is how much work went into making them. Jewelers of the 18th and 19th centuries used traditional hand tools and age-old methods like filigree, chasing, granulation (which involves tiny metal beadwork), and openwork piercing. Every detail was shaped by hand, giving each piece its own character.
Unlike modern rings that are often cast in large batches, antique rings were made individually, so even similar designs tend to have slight differences. That human touch is part of what makes them so appealing to collectors and wearers alike.
Materials & Settings
Because of the high cost of gold in past centuries, diamonds were frequently set in silver, which was then backed with gold to prevent tarnishing. You’ll also see a mix of yellow gold, rose gold, and sometimes platinum - especially in later Edwardian pieces.
The diamond cuts themselves differ from what’s popular today. Expect to see old mine cuts, rose cuts, and sometimes cabochon stones rather than modern brilliant cuts. These older styles have a softer, more subtle sparkle that’s very much part of their charm.
Sentiment and Symbolism
Antique rings, especially those from the Victorian era, are full of hidden meanings. Acrostic rings used gemstones to spell out words like "REGARD" or "DEAREST." Snake motifs symbolized eternal love. Mourning rings were often set with black stones like jet or onyx and could include hairwork or inscriptions.
Even the setting styles—bezel, buttercup, and early prong—add to the story. Many of these rings were exchanged as tokens of love or remembrance, not just accessories.
That Beloved Patina
One of the nicest things about antique rings is how they age. Metals develop a patina — a soft, lived-in look—that gives depth and a sense of authenticity. It’s not something you can replicate in new jewelry, and for many collectors, it’s part of the ring’s unique appeal.
A Glimpse Into History
Most antique rings you'll come across today come from the Georgian (1714–1837), Victorian (1837–1901), and Edwardian (1901–1915) periods. Each era has its own design cues. Georgian rings tend to be quite rare and often feature closed-back settings. Victorian rings range from romantic to Gothic, while Edwardian styles lean toward delicate and lacy designs in platinum.
These rings aren’t just beautiful, they’re part of a time when jewelry was personal, symbolic, and made to last. Whether you’re drawn to the history, the symbolism, or the sheer craftsmanship, antique rings have a lot to offer beyond their looks.