If you are lucky, you have an antique diamond engagement ring that was passed down to you through several generations of your family. To give such a ring to your intended fiancee would add a depth to your engagement that a modern retail store diamond engagement ring just couldn’t match. But, for a lot of reasons, many families to do not pass jewelry down from one generation to the next. Wear and tear is one factor in jewelry being lost to subsequent generations. Gold is soft and wears down from decades of use. Jewel mounts on rings also wear out and break, resulting in the loss of diamonds and other gemstones. During the Great Depression of the 1930′s, countless rings and other jewelry were sold because families needed money more than they needed jewelry. Similar situations are arising today, which provides you with some great opportunities for finding antique jewelry.

In today’s Great Recession, with gold prices over a thousand dollars per ounce and many people out of work, the supply of antique jewelry on the market is increasing. You can look for great deals below retail at estate sales and online auctions. Be aware of issues like loose stone mounts, chipped or cracked stones, and other damage on pieces that you might see online and not be able to inspect personally before you bid on them. Never buy anything online unless it comes with a complete money back guarantee, so you can be sure you actually receive what you think you are buying. Enjoy the search and enjoy the look of delight in your fiancee’s eyes when you give her that special antique diamond ring!