Edwardian Engagement Rings
Edwardian engagement rings, showcasing intricate filigree work, are one of the most coveted pieces of jewelry for brides-to-be. These antique rings were popular from 1901 to 1910 during the short reign of King Edward VII and then gradually lost their shine. In the past few years Edwardian-era rings, along with other Edwardian-era jewelry, have gained popularity among young ladies. With their delicate feminine designs and intricate details, Edwardian rings deserve to be on the wishlist of every young lady who values elegance.
What Makes Edwardian Engagement Rings so Special?
The Edwardian era is seen as the era of superb craftsmanship. This was the time when jewelers were experimenting with new intricate designs and also with new materials that were then growing in popularity. This was the era that witnessed extensive use of platinum and also of various precious stones. Let us discuss the striking features of Edwardian-era rings that made them so special.
Intricate Filigree
The most striking feature of Edwardian-style engagement rings is their use of intricate filigree work. Filigree is a jewelry-making technique in which delicate, lacy designs are created using thin gold or other precious metal wires. The filigree work of the Edwardian era often featured swirling patterns and intricate floral motifs. The other popular designs apart from floral motifs included bows, ribbons, garlands, loops, and other curved designs made with thin metal wires.
Use of Precious Stones
Another unique characteristic of Edwardian rings was the use of precious and semi-precious stones in combination with the filigree work. These rings featured large sparkling diamonds and other precious stones set in gold settings with intricate engravings and other decorative details. Diamonds were one of the most popular options but they were not the only precious stones to be used. Sapphires, emeralds, and pearls were some of the other popular options. King Edward himself had a very special emerald-studded ring with an intricate design which he is said to wear on all special occasions.
Milgrain Edging
Another feature that adds to the elegance of Edwardian rings is their milgrain edging. Tiny beads or grains of metals were delicately positioned on the edges of rings giving them a more opulent and luxurious look. These fine milgrain borders were very popular accents during the Edwardian era and are one of the popular features today as well. These pierced patterns with milgrains turned platinum and gold into lustrous lace.
Bulky Size
The large and bulky size of rings is yet another defining feature of the Edwardian era. The bulky size of the rings can be attributed to the large size of the diamond or other precious stone studded in the middle. These could have been round, oval, or marquis-shaped large precious stones. The encircling metal surfaces were intricately designed with filigree and milgrains. For additional shimmer, the metal surface was also diamond-encrusted.
The Growing Popularity of Edwardian Engagement Rings
The Edwardian era was a short-lived period from 1901 to 1910. But, the vintage Edwardian rings have now jumped back into fashion and are now rapidly growing in popularity. The resurgence of popularity has not only been noticed in rings but other jewelry, fashion, home decor, and artifact of the Edwardian era. The Edwardian-era engagement rings are among the antique jewelry that has seen a significant increase in demand and popularity.
But, why are Edwardian engagement rings getting so popular?
Vintage Appeal
The most prominent reason behind the growing popularity of Edwardian engagement rings is their vintage appeal. These unique and timeless pieces of jewelry stand out from the modern designs of engagement rings thus attracting many people with their vintage appeal. Those seeking a truly special engagement ring, for making their relationship memorable, cannot overlook the intricate details, delicate designs, and the use of prominent precious stones.
Symbolism
Many people are getting attracted to Edwardian engagement rings due to their symbolism of eternal love between two people. As we have already discussed that the rings of that era featured curved designs. The curved designs of the Edwardian era were believed to be a symbol of eternal love. This traditional belief is also one of the important reasons behind the growing popularity of Edwardian rings for engagement.
Customizable
Another feature that makes Edwardian rings more popular than other vintage rings is their capacity to be customized. These vintage rings are customizable and can be made to fit any finger size. You also have the option to re-set the stones to suit your personal choice. One can have the best of both worlds by picking a vintage ring that can be customized to infuse some sense of modern design.
Sustainability
The increasing consciousness towards the environment is also driving people’s preference towards vintage pieces of jewelry as they are more sustainable and ethical options. They are better for the environment as compared to new rings that would need newly mined precious metals and stones. Buying Edwardian rings is also seen as an attempt of preserving heritage and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The recently growing interests in Edwardian-era gold and diamond rings are a reflection of renewed interest in the opulent Edwardian era. The unique and timeless beauty of the antique Edwardian rings sets them apart from most modern-styled rings giving the wearer a chance to stand out in the crowd. They are customizable and can be made into a fusion of vintage and modern designs. Though the true Edwardian-era rings can be on the costlier side, they are worth the price. The elegant and luxurious rings with delicate feminine designs are something every elegant lady deserves as their engagement ring.
FAQ:
What are Edwardian engagement rings?
Edwardian-era engagement rings are known for their ornate, delicate, and intricate designs. It is often described as a style of jewelry that is feminine and flowery. A prevalent and iconic feature of Edwardian engagement rings is filigree, i.e., metalwork creating delicate, lacy patterns.
What is Edwardian platinum?
Platinum rose to prominence over gold as it complemented the pale, pastel, and feminine fashion palette, which was a rage during the Edwardian era. Edwardian Platinum was the white metal that did not leave any tint on the skin and clothing, like silver, and was strong yet capable of delicately holding the diamond in place.
What is the difference between Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry?
The main difference between Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry is that the former has delicate designs in the form of curved lines, floral vines, and loops. In contrast, Art Deco jewelry's distinctive style incorporated geometric shapes like triangles and rectangles and had straight lines, unlike Edwardian jewelry with dome or elongated oval shapes.
What is Edwardian-style jewelry?
Edwardian jewelry represents femininity, with most jewelry being created in color white like platinum, white gold, diamond, and pearls. While diamonds with an Old Mine or European cut held the center stage, sapphires were used for a pop of color.
How do I know if my ring is Edwardian?
Milgrain detailing on rings with tiny metal beads creating scalloped borders around the gemstones and diamonds is characteristic of Edwardian-era jewelry. Recognizing the signature styles of each period will make it easy for you to know which era your ring belongs to; engraved shoulders are a popular design of the Victorian age.
What is Edwardian cut?
The round, brilliant styles created during different periods are described by terms like 'Victorian cut' and 'Edwardian cut.' For instance, the Carré cut is a square-shaped stone with 90֯ corners developed to make maximum use of the rough stone.
