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PHOTO BY EMILY MARCH PHOTOGRAPHY
It's easy to see the appeal of a vintage engagement ring. With this nostalgic piece of jewelry comes an innate sense of history and a strong feeling of romance. Not to mention, brides-to-be who opt for vintage sparklers typically have one-of-a-kind pieces not many people can emulate. So whether it’s actually a vintage ring or just one that gives antique vibes, these baubles are a wonderful choice for those searching for an exceptional piece of jewelry to celebrate their unique love story.
Does a vintage engagement ring sound appealing to you? It’s helpful to learn about these sparklers in a few key periods of time: Georgian (1714-1830), Victorian (1837-1901), Edwardian (1890s-1915), Art Nouveau (1890s-early 1910s), and Art Deco (1920s-1930s). More specifically, Georgian jewelry is considered rare and can be difficult to find. Among its more notable characteristics are the ornate metal detailing and motifs like flowers and foliage. Victorian jewelry, named after Queen Victoria and her 64-year reign, speaks to an era of romantic design motifs including hands and hearts. Hallmarks of Edwardian jewelry (also referred to as La Belle Epoque) include intricate details as well as the use of platinum. Art Nouveau can be characterized by its use of whiplash lines and asymmetry. Lastly, Art Deco engagement rings can be identified by their geometric patterns and use of diamonds and contrasting gemstones.
Once you know the basics, all you need to do is search for a style that resonates with your personal aesthetic. But if you need a bit of help to start your search, here's a roundup of 15 beautiful vintage-inspired engagement rings worn by real brides.
A Cushion-Cut Pavé Ring
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PHOTO BY CHRIS & RUTH PHOTOGRAPHY
We don’t know what it is about a halo on an engagement ring that makes us swoon, but this popular style—which has been around since at least the 1700s—will always be a chic choice. This gorgeous ring, in particular, not only features a halo but also has a pavé band and a showstopping cushion-cut diamond.
A Rose Gold Ring
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PHOTO BY TAMARA GRUNER PHOTOGRAPHY
Rose gold anything immediately transports us back in time, and if that’s the vibe you’re going for with your engagement ring, look to this stunner for some inspiration. With a unique halo design and framework that has a vintage appeal, we love everything about this unique sparker.
A Round-Cut and Gold Diamond Ring
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PHOTO BY SHANNON MOFFIT PHOTOGRAPHY
Circular diamonds will never go out of style, and when paired with a unique four-pointed exterior reminiscent of a compass, this ring was made for the traveler at heart. From the halo to the delicate pavé band, what’s not to like?
An Emerald-Cut Diamond Ring
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PHOTO BY CAMILLE CATHERINE PHOTOGRAPHY
Emerald-cut diamonds give off Art Deco vibes, and if you want to live out your wildest The Great Gatsby fantasies, go for this particular shape. We love the way this distinct ring looks in a rose gold setting with four smaller diamonds along the perimeter.
An Aquamarine Ring
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PHOTO BY SHANNON MOFFIT PHOTOGRAPHY
Selecting an aquamarine jewel is another option for brides who want to set themselves apart from the masses. Just take a look at this ring, which is set in an antique-style band, allowing the stone to be the center of attention.
A Floral-Inspired Ring
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PHOTO BY LINDSEY PARADISO
We don’t think it gets more vintage than this stunning sparkler. A piece that could easily be a family heirloom, this floral-inspired number is unique, intricate, and features lots of dainty little diamonds to give it some extra sparkle.
An Oval-Shaped Diamond Ring
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PHOTO BY COLLINS NAI
If you love Hailey Bieber’s massive oval-shaped engagement ring, we think you’re going to fall head over heels in love with this vintage alternative. With a bold oval diamond that’s surrounded by a sunshine explosion of halos, this gold ring is pure perfection.
A Marquise-Cut Ring With a Halo
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PHOTO BY ROSSINI PHOTOGRAPHY
Something about the bold yet soft effect a marquise-cut diamond gives off will always catch our eye—and this ring is a perfect example. We love how the marquise stone is surrounded by a halo of mid-sized diamonds, resulting in a timeless yet dramatic design.
A Signet-Styled Bauble
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PHOTO BY AMBER GRESS PHOTOGRAPHY
Not into large center stones, but still want that vintage feel? This signet-styled bauble just might be calling your name. We love how it can be customized to each individual, allowing you to choose stones and jewels that have meaning to both you and your partner.
A Sapphire Gemstone Ring
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PHOTO BY KYLEE YEE
From the silver band to the large sapphire gemstone, this ring looks like it was plucked straight from the history books. With two diamonds on the side of the stone itself, it gives the ring a glam feeling we can’t help but love.
An Opal Ring With a Diamond Halo
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PHOTO BY EMILY MARCH PHOTOGRAPHY
Let’s take it back to the Victorian era with this gorgeous opal ring. If you’re set on making your center stone something that’s not a diamond, we think opal is a great choice, especially when set in a floral halo of diamonds, à la this sparker.
A Cushion-Cut Halo Diamond Ring
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PHOTO BY AUSTIN GROS
If you’re into cushion-cut engagement rings, allow us to introduce you to one of the most gorgeous takes on the diamond. With a beautiful halo and pavé band, this blinged-out bauble is perfect for anyone who’s into silver.
A Vintage Radiant-Cut Ring
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PHOTO BY SOPHIE EPTON
When we think of radiant-cut engagement rings, vintage isn’t typically a word that comes to mind. But, when we saw this specific ring and how it was set, our minds were forever changed. From the unique band to the stark diamond itself, this stunner deserves a spot on your finger.
An Emerald Ring
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PHOTO BY RÊVER WEDDINGS
This emerald ring on its own is absolutely gorgeous—but when paired with a unique band, as seen here, it truly takes our breath away. From the mixing of metals to the pop of emerald green, brides-to-be can't go wrong with this vintage-inspired design.
A Bold Flower-Shaped Ring
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PHOTO BY AMALIE ORRANGE PHOTOGRAPHY
There’s nothing we love more than a statement piece of jewelry, and if you’re looking to incorporate that same sentiment into your engagement ring, we think you’ll appreciate this bold flower-shaped ring. The floral design and circular center diamond work together well, resulting in an out-of-this-world look.