Autumn Sale Now On ends in

Price match guarantee. Found a better price? We’ll beat it.*

Vintage Style Rings Guide: Types & Occasions

2nd March 2021

by Tara W.

Luxurious, elegant and unforgettable in design, vintage style rings are a great choice no matter the occasion. If you have always been intrigued by antique and vintage jewellery, we reveal everything you need to know about vintage style rings and the occasions you may wish to buy them for.

What is a vintage style ring?

vintage engagement rings

An antique or vintage ring is technically one that is over 50 years old - however, vintage style rings take on a whole new meaning. Vintage-style rings don’t have a specific definition but are seen as reproduction or style that has been inspired by an older era. Typically vintage style rings are brand new but are reminiscent of a specific era, which we discuss in more detail later on. 

When would you buy a vintage style ring?

There are many occasions you may wish to buy a vintage style ring. They make particularly good gifts, especially if your loved one is a fan of vintage jewellery, for almost any special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary. They can also be a great option if you are looking for an engagement ring.

Are vintage engagement rings popular?

Yes, vintage engagement rings are surprisingly popular with modern couples. From coloured gemstone engagement rings to delicate diamond rings, vintage style rings have become favoured for their unique qualities and their bespoke appearance.  

Styles of vintage rings

Did you know there are different types of vintage rings? Each one is inspired by a particular era, and you can easily determine which one by looking closely at its design. Milgrain and filigree detailing, intricate diamonds, and unique settings are what make vintage rings so covetable.

Victorian vintage style rings 

victorian vintage style rings

There were plenty of different ring styles during the Victorian Era (1835-1900). Generally, ring designs in this era were lavish and decadent. Halos, clusters and rows of diamonds became highly popular during this time, and jewellery tended to be crafted from yellow or rose gold. Bypass settings and split shank styles were also very popular, and most pieces of jewellery were designed to make a statement. These styles are still sought after today and seen throughout a lot of vintage-inspired jewellery.

Edwardian vintage style rings 

edwardian vintage style rings

Jewellery in the Edwardian Era (1900-1920) was very romantic in style. Unlike most jewellery made in the Victorian Era, rings were often crafted from platinum, and coloured gemstones also rose in popularity. Diamond rings during this period had a lacy appearance, often including filigree and milgrain detailing, along with floral motifs. A lot of vintage style rings take inspiration from this romantic period, and intricate lace-like detailing is often used in ring designs today. 

Art Deco vintage style rings 

art deco vintage style rings

The Art Deco Era (1920-1940) showed a stark contrast to the romantic styles of the Edwardian Era. Art Deco rings featured different diamond cuts and repeated geometric patterns to create one unique design. Today, vintage style rings are heavily inspired by the Art Deco Era, and they can easily be identified by their bold, geometric appearance.

Retro vintage style rings 

retro vintage style rings

From bold to minimal, rings in the Retro Era (1940-1960) got stripped back to a simpler, more delicate style. Rose gold and yellow gold became the metal of choice for diamond rings in this era, possibly due to platinum being banned for non-military use during the beginning of the period. Solitaire styles and baguette side stones became a popular choice for rings, and this can be seen in plenty of vintage-inspired rings today.


A vintage-style ring makes a great gift, whether for yourself or a loved one. Each one is reminiscent of popular designs within a certain period. Revisiting the past has never looked so beautiful - intricate diamonds, bold geometric patterns, milgrain and filigree detailing are what makes each piece feel so unique. 

Discover our entire collection of vintage engagement rings or head to our other article to learn how to clean your diamond jewellery at home.


@diamondsfactoryworld