Types of Antique Engagement Rings

 There are various styles of Antique Engagement Rings that people can choose from.  Making the proper selection will depend on the particular look that one is attracted to and, of course, establishing budget parameters.  Here are some examples of great styles of engagement rings that Gesner Estate Jewelry can offer.

Edwardian Engagement Rings

Edwardian Engagement Rings were some of the most popular rings of the early 1900s.  These rings offer a lace-like detail filigree that was cherished by ladies of the Edwardian era.  These classical rings offer a sense of diversity and special appeal that is unique to the era.  The Edwardian rings were usually delicate and very feminine.

Art Deco Engagement Rings

Art Deco Engagement Rings cover the time period between the 1920s and 1930s.  Emeralds, Sapphires, and Rubies became very popular and were often used with diamonds to create the “look” of the Art Deco era.  The Art Deco “look” often combines the influences of cubism, and geometric and angular design.  They are equally popular with the Edwardian look and certain to be cherished for years to come.   These rings are very hard to find and are still very much in high demand.

Victorian Jewelry (1837-1890)

Victorian Jewelry refers to the styles of jewelry that were fashionable during the reign of Queen Victoria of Great Britain. Queen Victoria loved to wear jewelry. She was also very influential with women of her time and whatever caught her fancy turned into fashion. Victorian jewelry is as complex in its symbolism, sentiment, and design as the fashion, architecture, and decor of the time. Worn as an ornament, a love token, or a remembrance, both the costume and fine jewelry of the era not only completed the well-dressed lady’s attire but also denoted her position in society, her marital status, and her sense of self.

Retro Era (1940-1960)

The Retro Era was more well-known for its jewelry crafted in rose, yellow or green gold. Rings, for instance, were oversized and gemstones that were popular during that time were diamond, aquamarine, topaz, citrine, sapphire, and often synthetic ruby

Platinum Engagement Rings

Antique Platinum Engagement Rings are what we specialize in and our collection features a very large inventory of breathtaking craftsmanship, style and design. 

Gesner Estate Jewelry offers the finest selection of quality vintage & antique engagement rings at great prices.  Take the time to view all the options that we offer on our site and please contact us if you have any questions.  Visit us at www.gesner.com for a true visual experience!  We look forward to hearing from you and helping you with your needs. (813)282-1008 or (727)586-6000

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Edwardian Engagement Rings

 When it comes to Edwardian Jewelry, engagement rings have become some of the most coveted items with brides-to-be.  Ladies that value the elegance of the era can truly appreciate the design and attention to detail that distinguishes Edwardian rings from today’s more contemporary jewelry.   These neo-classical styles of the early 20th century make Edwardian engagement rings some of the most exciting pieces of jewelry for any woman to appreciate.

Value of Edwardian Style Engagement Rings

Whether you are looking to buy or sell an Edwardian engagement ring, you can be sure that you are dealing with something that is very special.  Gesner Estate Jewelry specializes in early 20th century Edwardian and Art Deco platinum and has a very large inventory to choose from.

If you are interested in selling your jewelry, you will definitely want to consider bringing it into one of our two locations in the Tampa Bay area.  Our associates will be very happy to evaluate your jewelry and make you a very fair offer. 

Types of Edwardian Engagement Rings

Even though Edwardian rings are hard to find, there are still many options when it comes to the various styles that one has to choose from.  Many of these elegantly hand-crafted rings offer a variety of settings and stones which make them extremely unique.  These Edwardian rings later become heirlooms due to their amazing detail and beauty.   Many hours of design and craftsmanship went into this jewelry and those efforts will be appreciated for years to come.

The value of a natural pearl & Edwardian antique pearl ring

A large natural pearl is considered the oldest and most valuable gemstone. When found, a single perfectly round natural pearl would be sold as a collector’s item because of its scarcity and considerable value. The larger the pearl, the more it is worth.

In 1520 B.C., a portion of a rare natural pearl was found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess. This information is not surprising because natural pearls are not only considered extremely valuable but have been known to symbolize humility and purity. 

Another example of the value of a single pearl is the historical fact that the Roman general, Vitellius, sold one of his mother’s pearls to fund an entire war. Hard to believe, but true!

This dainty and feminine natural Antique pearl and diamond ring is from the Edwardian time period, circa 1901-1914. It has a 3.8mm pearl and is surrounded by .33ct. T.W. of Rose Cut diamonds with SI clarity and G-H color. Furthermore, the shoulders of this ring have a leaf design with prong set diamonds. Crafted in Platinum and 14 karat yellow gold, this is a classic and elegant Antique Vintage pearl ring. A perfect addition to any woman’s jewelry wardrobe.

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Checkout our Antique & Vintage Jewelry : https://gesner.com/antique-vintage-jewelry

Types of Antique Engagement Rings

There are various styles of Antique Engagement Rings that people can choose from.  Making the proper selection will depend on the particular look  that one is attracted to and, of course, establishing budget parameters.  Here are some examples of great styles of engagements rings that Gesner Estate Jewelry can offer.

Edwardian Engagement Rings

Edwardian Engagement Rings

Edwardian Engagement Rings were some of the most popular rings of the early 1900’s.  These rings offer a lace-like detail filigree that was cherished by ladies of the Edwardian era.  These classical rings offer a sense of diversity and special appeal that is unique to the era.  The Edwardian rings were usually delicate and very feminine.

Art Deco Engagement Rings

Art Deco Engagement Rings

Art Deco Engagement Rings cover the time period between the 1920’s and 1930’s.  Emeralds, Sapphires and Rubies became very popular and were often used with diamonds to create the “look” of the Art Deco era.  The Art Deco “look” often combines influences of cubism, geometric and angular design.  They are equally popular with the Edwardian look and certain to be cherished for years to come.   These rings are very hard to find and are still very much in high demand.

Platinum Engagement Rings

Antique Platinum Engagement Rings

Antique Platinum Engagement Rings are what we specialize in and our collection features a very large inventory of breathtaking craftsmanship, style and design. 

Gesner Estate Jewelry offers the finest selection of quality antique engagement rings at great prices.  Take the time to view all the options that we offer on our site and please contact us if you have any questions.  Visit us at https://gesner.com/ for a true visual experience!  We look forward to hearing from you and helping you with your needs. (813)282-1008 or (727)586-6000

Historical Wedding Traditions

The antique wedding band has a long tradition dating as far as 860 A. D. Wedding traditions varied greatly between “cultures, ethnic groups, religions and countries”, according to Wikipedia – Wedding.

Roman wedding customs gave way to the engagement ring as a gift. Today, an antique engagement ring would be looked at in the same way. It was worn on the third finger of the left hand, as it is today. It was believed that a nerve ran from the finger directly to the heart.

In Scottish weddings, the custom was to marry just outside the church with a ceremony in the Scottish language. The wedding party and guest then went inside the church for a ceremony in Latin where wedding bands were exchanged believing that the rings symbolically had no beginning or ending. Of course, the event was followed with a marriage kiss.

In Hawaii, very little is known about the old marriage tradition as there is no language of old Hawaii. However, we do know that they exchanged wedding bands symbolizing the sun, the earth and the heavens.

Pope Nicholas, in 860 A. D, told all that the engagement ring was required to seal the marriage. The ring was considered a ring of gold. It wasn’t until 617 years later that adding a diamond to the ring of gold as an engagement ring became popular.

In old England, the tradition of something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, started. Although these customs are used today, few know anything of its relevance.

Something old is symbolic of continuity, usually a piece of lace or an old piece of jewelry. Today, an antique wedding band or vintage wedding band could be used for something old. Something new could even be an antique wedding band and would be considered that something new. It is a new gift to the bride to be. Something borrowed would be symbolic of the future happiness and that was given to the bride by a friend. Something blue meant purity and a band of blue cloth was worn on the bottom of the bride and groom’s wedding attire.

During the time of the knights, the knight would go into a tournament wearing a single flower or a handkerchief from the bride. That has turned into the custom of the groom wearing a flower from the bride’s bouquet.

The white gown was not a symbol of purity but rather, of joy. In 1499, Ann of Brittany started the tradition of the white gown being fashionable wedding attire.

Today, some traditions have changed but many are the same. The diamond engagement ring, the wedding band symbolizing the never ending love between the husband and wife, the white wedding dress, the something blue and the single flower are still a popular tradition today.

Why Purchase Estate and Vintage Jewelry?

The lure of timeless beauty and sophistication enhance the unique design and rare craftsmanship of a previously owned piece of estate jewelry or vintage jewelry.

When buying Estate and vintage jewelry, you are cutting out the middlemen by not buying from manufacturers where gold and platinum is at a premium. When you find a trusted jeweler that specializes in this kind of jewelry, you have found a treasure. Value comes in many ways. Your jeweler buys from attorneys that handle estates, from auctions, from contacts close and far, and from individuals that come to the store to sell what they don’t need or want anymore.

It’s easy to find jewelry that is priced well and is unique. Once again, your estate jeweler has set up his/her store to carry the unique and one-of-kind. You can find things from as early as the Georgian Period, (1714-1830) to current times. 

Estate jewelry means previously owned jewelry and you have a lot to pick from. From Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco Periods to current times, each offers its unique design. The Georgian Period is known for its design of nature including flowers, birds, feathers and ribbon. It was also know for “en tremblant” where the item is mounted on a spring to make it look like, for example, a butterfly that trembles.

The Victorian Period is known for its flowers and animal themes which were delicate, as well as heavier jewelry made with colorful gemstones like peridot, amethyst, turquoise and garnet to name a few. The Art Nouveau Period is also known for its flowers, scrolls and shapes of women.

The Edwardian Period is known for its use of platinum with bows, scalloped edges and filigree that looked like lace. Art Deco Period is known for its filigree, especially in diamond engagement rings. Synthetic sapphires and emeralds were also used in all kinds of rings especially diamond engagement rings. When you see more modern jewelry, you will notice that it will have a heavier look with more geometric shapes and not quite as much detail. If you purchase designer rings you may get more detail but it won’t be as delicate and light as vintage jewelry.

You’ll find jewelry that is fairly priced, unique and contains finer craftsmanship when you buy estate and vintage jewelry. Nothing beats the flowing designs, for instance, of the Art Nouveau Period. If you are looking for value, uniqueness and craftsmanship, you need look no further. Estate and Vintage jewelry sale for you.

Antique vs. Reproduction

What Should I purchase an antique engagement ring or a reproduction?

If you are looking to purchase an antique looking engagement ring, why not buy the real thing. Nothing matches the delicate workmanship and one of a kind designs.

The most popular diamond engagement rings come from the Victorian era, the Art Nouveau period, the Edwardian period and the Art Deco time period. Actual antique diamond engagement rings from these times will be delicate. And, of course, you will be getting a period piece of one of a kind jewelry. You will not see any duplicates.

Finding a diamond engagement ring from the Victorian Era (1837-1901), can be more difficult to find than other time periods, but when you do they will primarily be made of gold with floral designs, fine scroll work and animal themes.

The Art Nouveau period (1890-1905) produced 14 karat or 18 karat diamond engagement rings with flowing, curvy lines and organic designs such as birds, butterflies, and flowers like poppies, orchids or irises.

Edwardian engagement rings (1901-1914) will be designed primarily in platinum with filigree, bows, honeycomb patterns, the look of flower garland or scalloped edges. Colored gemstones such as synthetic sapphires, natural rubies or emeralds were sometimes used to accent the jewelry design.

The Art Deco period (1920-1935) primarily produced diamond engagement rings in 18 karat or platinum. You can find your ring designed with diamond flecked filigree, which looks like lace work or possibly flowers. During this time period, gemstones such as synthetic sapphires were primarily used, but you can find engagement rings accented with rubies or emeralds as well. Diamond engagement rings during this period and the Edwardian time period can easily be found without any gemstone accents, if that is your preference.

With reproduction engagement rings, you are getting a piece of jewelry that has been made over and over again. It is not one of a kind as in the older time periods. Another thing to take into consideration is the clunky heavy look. You will not find the delicate workmanship of times gone by in new reproduction rings. And finally the new reproduction engagement rings are made by manufacturers that add their price on to the price of the ring. With vintage engagement, rings there is no middle man.

If you are asking for my opinion, the answer would be to purchase the actual vintage ring. You are getting a delicate one of a kind period piece of jewelry without all the tacked on prices of manufacturers. You will find vintage engagement rings at estate jewelry stores such as Gesner Estate Jewelry.

WHY BUY ANTIQUE JEWELRY?

You ask, “Why Buy Antique Jewelry?” Uniqueness is the simple answer. When purchasing antique vintage jewelry which is 50 years old or older, you are acquiring something from another time; something that may be rare and something that is definitely different from what you see in most jewelry stores. Consider perusing an Estate & Antique Jewelry Store, like ours. Estate Jewelry simply means previously owned. You will often come across that special Antique Jewelry find and maybe something from another time period that has specific unique characteristics.

The Victorian Era, c.1837-1901

A ring from the Victorian Era, c.1837-1901, could be in the shape of a serpent, crafted in gold with a center gemstone. Queen Victoria had a ring just like that with an emerald in the center as her engagement ring. 

The Edwardian Era, c. 1901-1914

The Edwardian Era, c. 1901-1914, was known for its delicate workmanship in platinum, the king of metals. Platinum is known for its durability and malleability. It is the metal of preference for Master Jewelers whose skills are needed to make the finest details on a jewelry item, like milgraining, which would look like a row of tiny dots. A diamond engagement ring may have characteristics like garlands, ribbons and lace and decorated with diamonds in the mounting. Fine metal piercings might also be found in a ring from this time period

The Art Nouveau Era, c. 1890-1915

The Art Nouveau Era, c. 1890-1915, was known for its use of designs such as leaves, flowers, bugs and the shape of a woman’s face with flowing hair.  Plique-a-jour was a type of see through enameling that was used in conjunction with the features described above. Yellow gold was more common during that era and it worked beautifully with stones such as aquamarine, peridot, pearls, opals and diamonds

The Art Deco Era, c. 1920-1935

The Art Deco Era, c. 1920-1935, diamond engagement rings were enhanced with meticulous filigree and intricate designs. Platinum was the metal of choice. As with the Edwardian, Victorian and Art Nouveau Era, the Art Deco Era also used hand fabrication vs. casting, into the early 1930’s, to make its most delicate and complicated pieces of jewelry.

The Retro Era, c. 1935-1950

The Retro Era, c. 1935-1950, was more well-known for its jewelry crafted in rose, yellow or green gold. Rings, for instance, were oversized and gemstones that were popular during that time were diamond, aquamarine, topaz, citrine, sapphire and often synthetic ruby

As you can see, antique jewelry is extremely unique and because of that, you may never see two jewelry items alike in your lifetime! To be sure, not many of your friends will have jewelry like yours when you purchase beautiful Antique jewelry!