Types of Vintage Engagement Rings

Written by Cynthia Findlay Antiques.

Vintage rings are the perfect choice for couples who want an engagement ring that highlights their unique love for each other. The classic looks and styles of vintage and estate jewellery are still eye-catching today. Vintage engagement rings also symbolize that the love between two people is timeless — just like the beauty of classic jewellery.

Shopping at jewellers like Cynthia Findlay Antiques that specialize in vintage items is a great way to make sure you are seeing the best selection of high quality rings possible. Here are a few styles of jewellery that make outstanding engagement ring choices:

Art Deco: Popular in the 1920s and 1930s, Art Deco influenced everything from jewellery to clothing and architecture. Art Deco rings are great ways to showcase the stunning beauty of diamonds and are a popular choice for engagement rings. Art Deco jewellery is characterized by diamonds cut in geometric shapes such as rectangles and triangles and accents with hard angles instead of round corners.

Edwardian: Jewellery from the 1900s through the 1920s often is marked by the use of filigree techniques. By layering strands of precious metals such as gold or platinum around the jewels, jewellers could create intricate laced patterns that almost acted like a sheer curtain around the jewels.

Victorian: During the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901, jewellers favored designs that were popular with the queen. However, Queen Victoria’s personal tastes changed several times over the decade, meaning that its hard categorize a true “Victorian” style. Earlier Victorian styles were light and airy with flourishes such as hearts and bows. After the death of her husband Prince Albert in 1861, Victorian jewellery became darker and more subdued.


Since 1978, Cynthia Findlay Antiques has been a leading dealer of antique and custom jewellery in Toronto, Canada. The company specializes in antique jewellery along with modern pieces.