Tips For Buying An
Antique Engagement Ring
Time can take its toll on any beloved piece of jewelry and that includes the an antique engagement ring you may be looking to buy. From daily wear and tear to environmental contaminants such as cleaning products, overtime the structural integrity can become compromised. If a ring has been well maintained these issues may be less of a hindrance on your purchase. Regardless, here are some vital structural indicators you want to look for to make sure you are purchasing quality equal to beauty! Condition of BandBefore buying look at the band of the ring and ask yourself how many times has it been sized? Multiple sizing, while it will not harm the design can affect the structural integrity of the band from repeatedly bending the metal and having sizing joints. Likewise, every time it is sized the ring will need polishing which inevitably removes gold from the original thickness of the band. Fear not, your local jeweler can discuss the possibility of adding a new shank if the ring of your dreams is less than optimal. However, this process will increase your investment in the piece by adding incurring metal and labor fees.Condition of SettingThe setting is more than just the pretty prongs that hold your diamond in place. They serve a vital role in making sure your diamond does not fall out. Before you buy look at the prongs of any antique engagement ring you may be considering and make sure they are well maintained; they hold your stone tight and are strong and not worn. If you find a ring that melts your heart but the prongs are in rough shape you can always have your local jeweler quote you on restoring them. However, just like before there will be additional costs incurred for the additional metal and labor.Die Struck SettingsAt Jabel we strongly recommend looking for an antique engagement ring that was made through the process we use called die striking. Die striking increases the overall strength, density and inherit quality of a rings structure by applying as much as 50 tons of pressure to the gold forcing it to take the shape of a die (see image of die to right). With almost 100 years of history using this method we frequently hear from and 2nd, 3rd and 4th generations Jabel ring owners who continue to enjoy the beauty of their ancestors ring. For more information on die striking you are welcome to watch our documentary.
Buying NewIf all this seems too overwhelming to buy an antique engagement ring or you simply want the look of an antique style engagement ring without the worry and concern of its condition you may want to consider buying an antique or vintage inspired engagement ring (especially those with hand engraving). This will give you the look you want to achieve without the concern for structural integrity. Likewise, it will also give you build your own engagement ring which gives you the flexibility to get exactly what you envision.
Email us to find a local Jabel jeweler at info@jabel.com