The trend for antique jewellery is global and doesn’t look to be ending any time soon. If you are planning to pop the question in 2021 and she loves antiques, this is a perfect opportunity to source a ring that she will love. Like other valuable assets, antique jewellery demands a level of background knowledge and with so many ‘replicas’ around, it is easy to find yourself paying for something that is not what it seems.
Here are a few important factors to consider when buying an antique diamond engagement ring.
1. Set Your Budget
This is advisable, as it eliminates the chance of overspending. Never spend more than you can afford and remember there are many real estate expenses that will be queuing up in the near future. For example, if you want to find 1920 engagement rings for sale online, you can search by price, which saves a lot of time. Google is your best friend and can help you locate the website of a leading online antique dealer who would have an extensive catalogue.
2. Take Your Time
If you are the type of guy who does his grocery shopping in 15 minutes, you might want to change your strategy when looking to buy an antique diamond engagement ring. Start with the details given on the piece, which would include the stone information (old mine cut) and you should ask to see diamond grading certification, which any reputable dealer would be able to furnish on request. Only you know your partner’s tastes in jewellery and this should form the basis of your search.
3. Define The Age
Strictly speaking, an antique must be at least 100 years old; younger would technically be ‘vintage’, so do make a point of finding out the year of manufacture. Generally, the older a piece, the more valuable it is and if your chosen ring is antique, then it would be priced accordingly; if not, then this should be pointed out to the dealer.
4. Ring Size
This might test your abilities; if you are planning a surprise proposal, you will need to obtain her ring size and this is even more important when the ring is an antique. It is not advisable to have an antique ring reworked, as this can detract from the value. You could ask a good friend to find out, but then there’s a risk of revealing the secret; if you can borrow a 3rd finger ring for a while, take it to a jeweller who can size it.
5. Consider Other Gemstones
Unless diamonds happen to be her best friend, there are other precious stones – emeralds, sapphires, rubies, aquamarine, jade and many more, all of which can be found in fine antique rings.
It is important to stick to a budget you are happy with and the online antique dealer can help you source the perfect ring. Once you have acquired the ring, you can start to plan the actual proposal, which should be something that both of you remember with fondness for many years to come.