Diamond Rings: reason for Attraction

Visiting several specialty stores, we find many engagement rings, but for those looking for a small unique treasure, we recommend looking for antique rings before making any selection.

Imagine the scene, “hello dear this ring costs one thousand euros and we spent it on you, of course now it is un-saleable nobody wants it, so it is worth 0.” Find out later that nobody wants to buy it back or offer you anything because the cut is ancient, impure, too colorful, of a shape that has no market for which then it is worth zero.

Ancient engagement rings are almost always unique, because at that time there were no mass production environments today. They are sought after for something more than the quality of diamonds, giving a little bit of history to shine. There are many factors for evaluating a ring: the period of creation of the piece, the time and shape in which it was drawn, the materials used and also the gemstone. Each ring has its own history and this history is expressed by the elements that compose it.

The custom of giving the engagement ring begins in ancient Egypt

According to the history of the engagement ring, it is possible that the first rings were made of leather, plants or other biodegradable materials, which served not only to symbolize the union of the couple, but also their connection with the earth. Over time, metal rings became more elaborate, eventually incorporating precious stones that added beauty.

Different periods

• The three known periods are the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco periods. Each has its own unique characteristics based on the materials available at that time, fashion trends and the position of women in society.
• The Victorian era is named after Queen Victoria. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had a strong and romantic love, and the rings of that time were known to be the symbol of true love.
• The Victorian era lasted until the late 1800s, and all Victorian rings had a yellow gold structure with silver-mounted diamonds. The silver used increased the weight and allowed the color of the diamonds to shine. Some Victorian engagement rings had a very beautiful gold work, but in general they all focused on presenting the stone as well as possible. Not only diamond, but also ruby, topaz, amethyst, sapphire, aquamarine, emerald, etc. were used. The most famous rings from the Victorian era have the snake as a design, so the work was spectacular.
• The Edwardian era is characterized by great social changes and decadence. The display of luxury, the thirst for travel and technological innovations are some of the elements that define the period between 1901-1910.

The beauty of 20^Th Century

The 20th century brought the Edwardian period and the arrival of platinum in jewelry. Platinum allows jewelers to emphasize the feminine shape, creating splendid and complex designs. This light metal is much stronger than gold and allowed the jewelers of the time to draw filigree pieces, lace, bows and garlands. The pieces were delicate and graceful – the reflection of the woman of that time.

In 1914, the Edwardian period came to an abrupt end with the outbreak of World War I. Many men went to war, leaving women to do various jobs as well as housekeeping. This causes the jewelry to stagnate, leaving the metals to make war objects.

After the war, the Art Deco era began and thus a new style of jewelry. There was a lot of enthusiasm after the war, which was reflected in the Art Deco period. The pieces were bold, flashy and geometric, including interesting designs and colors: an ode to the woman who came out of the war with a much stronger attitude after working in factories and being the head of the family. The fashion of this era also reflects a new clothing attitude the flapper style which replaces the conservative style of pre-war clothing.

The jewelry design will be inspired by the geometric shapes characteristic of the style, using the triangle, the trapeze, the hexagon and especially the zig-zags. Also, luxury and brilliance are translated in this field by using the most precious stones for rings and pendants, in a society that no longer knew economic limits. Thus, in addition to diamonds, they are also used: sapphires, onyx, rubies, pearls, quartz, chromed metal, ivory, etc,. both for their preciousness and their vivid colors. Platinum will take a special place, and your favorite colors remain yellow and white.

When the recession begins, metals are replaced by more affordable ones such as bakelite, enameled metal and even plastic. It is the era of the 20s and Cartier is the company that holds the supremacy, making the most diverse and perfect models for the Art Deco period.

Diamond

Diamonds were the favorite stones in the engagement rings of the ancients. But it is important to point out that ancient rings have diamonds with an ancient cut, which shine very differently from today’s stones. The diamond cutting tools were not precise, the diamonds were cut with less perfection, but they had more character. Victorian stone cutting methods left the stone a thick, massive feature that many later understood to enjoy. In the vast majority of jewelry stores you cannot find this type of unique stones. Brightness also plays a key role. During the Victorian era, people used candles and daylight to see jewelry, because there was no electricity.

The ancient cut of the stones has few facets, allowing the inherent beauty of the stone to shine. In the processing of modern stones, a shape is sought that gives more brilliance due to the reflected light. Now you can visit Alexander Sparks and there you can find a great variety. The option is profitable for you perfectly.

Last Words

Like many other collectibles, furniture, watches or cars, the value of antiquity is not something that can be assessed immediately. Understanding the history, the way of life and the form in which jewelry was used at that time, a piece from that period brings with it a beautiful sheet of history that cannot be found today.