For the special woman in your life, looking at antique diamond engagement rings will add an extra spark of sophistication and elegance to your proposal. Diamond antique engagement rings share lots of characteristics that make them easily distinguishable from all other contemporary styles and designs. The truth is older engagement rings are exquisitely detailed. When shopping for the perfect antique ring, you’ll see filigree designs, intricate carvings and other small embellishments that will turn the ring into a work of art. You may be surprised at all the intricate designs.

As if that’s not enough, while you are looking at antique diamond engagement rings, it’s easy to notice the gem quality. In the past, lapidary tools were not as accurate and the vast majority of diamond cuts were less geometrically perfect than modern stones. Nowadays this adds to the charm and classic appeal of an antique cut. During the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco periods, the gem of choice did not always turn out to be diamonds. In most antique designs you’ll see rubies, sapphires, or other semi-precious gemstones.

Bear in mind when looking at antique diamond engagement rings that individual ring designs vary greatly because of their handmade quality. And something else to consider is that antique rings can be less durable than modern rings since specific alloys have been used in metal smithing. Finally, remember that in order for a diamond engagement ring to be classified as being antique, the ring must be 50 to 100 years old.