Vintage rings have a
style and charm that appeals to many people. However, it is not
always possible to find an older ring in the correct size, style, and
condition. A custom-designed ring can appeal to someone that loves
the look of vintage jewelry, and it will guarantee the quality and
fit too. Here are some ideas to consider when planning the perfect
vintage-inspired ring.
Find a Story
The history that comes
with the jewelry (known or otherwise) is often a part of the allure
of vintage pieces for many people. To give a new ring a backstory,
base the design on a historic one that has a romantic tale. Include a
photograph of the inspiration piece and a summary of the romantic
story in the box with the completed ring.
Images of the
engagement rings of royalty and movie stars abound online. Prince
Philip of England, for example, used diamonds from his mother's tiara
for the ring given to Queen Elizabeth during his proposal. It is
simple to find photographs of that ring, as the Queen continues to
wear it today. Inspiration can also come from family heirlooms owned
by relatives.
Know the Preference
The term vintage
does not mean the same thing to everyone. If planning a surprise, you
need to know what era the recipient prefers. Victorian-era rings
often include pearls and are set in yellow or rose gold. Edwardian
styles favored platinum bands and intricate filigree designs. Art
Deco rings have a geometric style common to the era.
Many vintage rings also
featured gems other than diamonds. It is not unusual for modern
shoppers to also choose non-diamond engagement rings. Try to discover
if the potential wearer likes vintage styles because of the variety
of choices for the main stone, and choose a gem based on the color
stones or jewels they find the most desirable.
Keep It Personal
Modeling a ring after
one that belonged to someone else allows people to share in a story
they enjoy, but the new ring should remain a reflection of the newly
engaged couple. Find a way to make the ring the deeply personal piece
of jewelry a custom design should be. Add a birthstone or include an
inscription inside the band. Choose anything that connects the ring
to the recipient.
Present It
Accordingly
Give a vintage-inspired
ring in a ring box or jewelry box of the same era. Online retail
sites offer many genuine vintage options to choose from. Shoppers can
choose from a ring box that may have held another engagement ring
many decades before, or a larger vintage or antique jewelry box.
Choose an elegant wood
or leather Edwardian jewelry box, an ornate Victorian option, or a
stylish Art Deco option. Make certain to buy the box early to prepare
it for presentation. Many older jewelry boxes and ring boxes have
fabric liners or were made from porous materials and may have a musty
odor.
Sprinkle baking soda
over the interior and leave the box open few hours in the bright
sunshine. Clean thoroughly and place a cotton ball with a couple of
drops of pleasantly scented essential oils, like vanilla or lavender,
in the box for a couple of days. Remove the cotton balls before
placing the ring inside.
A romantic backstory, a
personal touch, and a vintage box for presentation are nearly all you
need to give someone the engagement ring of their dreams. You also
need a ring, of course, and that is where we at Marla's
Gem Creations
come in. Contact us; we will work with you to
create a ring that includes every detail you desire.
