Antique engagement rings-secrets to a good find

"Let's not be too specific; It's better to have old second-hand diamonds than none. " Mark Twain

Far from being undesirable, are "old second-hand diamonds", especially in rings very sought after today. Antique engagement rings have that special something that is almost indescribable. So much so that they can be found on the fingers of celebrities-the most recent is the ring given to Kate ... You know, Kate of Prince William and Kate. Her emerald engagement ring was exquisite.

Betrothal gifts or already at least since Roman antiquity. But the first ' famous ' diamond engagement ring got Mary of Burgundy in 1477 Archduke Maximilian of Austria. Mary fell in love with the ring and married Maximilian shortly there after. Not much later, the Archduke died, and Mary was left with the ring and the estate.

There was a practice, prior to the 20th century, of a thimble to sew as a betrothal gift. I guess that the rich would a thimble encrusted with jewels. The practice apparently started with religious groups who shunned jewelry.

There are essentially three epochs for antique rings:

the Victoria era of 1835-1900; the Edwardian era of 1900-1920; the Art deco period of 1920-1930.

Each era had specific design points that separates it from the others.

Although increasingly difficult to find, here are a few places you can antique engagement rings.

Antique shops will often wear rings and jewelry and there may be room for some discussion of "price".Estate sale can be a source of antique engagement rings. The price will often be a shot in the dark. "Grandma paid $ XXX so it must be worth $ YYY now." type of thinking can exclude of the day.Estate auctions will have a day view prior to the auction to give you a chance to see the ring (s) and see what kind of shape they are.A reputable jeweler will sometimes carry antique engagement rings. This may be the safest choice for a ring are in good shape. Maybe the price is already at a premium.

Where you buy the ring, there are a few things to buy with a.

Investigate before buying, the ring with a jeweler's Loupe to see it under magnification. This will take you to see any cracks or chips in the stone or the institution allow. If the setting filigree, then pay attention to the fine details as wear or vulnerability could show.

After buying the ring independently assessed for assurance and then the insurance for the purchase.

Take your new priceless gain a reputable jeweler for inspection (although you would have done it myself). They will closely examine the most beautiful cracks or problems and suggestions for repairs. Repairs can be expensive but in the end, you'll an engagement ring that will stand out in the crowd. Make sure that the ring is cleaned at the same time.

One final note-antique engagement rings are not cheap but they are very worth the price and precious memories of your wedding will bring.