Engagement rings have been a part of history for many years, continually changing in style, but always maintaining their symbolic meaning of love and unity. For couples who love vintage style rings, this historical timeline is the perfect place to start your search for “the one”.
Victorian
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, romance reigned supreme across Europe and men wooed their wives with whimsical, detailed rings. Colorful stones like sapphires, rubies and emeralds were incorporated into ring designs for most of this period, but diamonds began to grow more popular towards the end of the era.
Edwardian
Known for the intricate, lacy platinum designs surrounding beautiful diamonds, Edwardian engagement rings came into style at the beginning of the 20th century. Around the same time, engagement rings were becoming more of a social norm, thanks to the Industrial Revolution and the growth of the middle class.
Art Deco
Set in platinum and white gold, the Art Deco rings of the 1920s and 1930s focused on geometrical shape and the bold, modern style seen in art pieces from this period. One of our favorite things about Art Deco engagement rings is that the diamonds within them were often accented with colored stones like rubies and sapphires – a trend we see coming back today!
Traditionalism
By the 1950s, De Beers slogan “A Diamond Is Forever” had made its mark on the world and the idea of the diamond engagement ring with a solitaire center stone eclipsed all others. And while this setting is now the classic choice envisioned by most brides, there have been a few engagement ring shakeups since then.
The Diana Craze
The entire world loved Princess Diana, and the women of the world adored and envied her beautiful sapphire engagement ring. Throughout the 1980s, everyone wanted to match Diana’s style, and sapphire rings were all the rage.
Big and Bold
In more recent years, celebrity engagement rings have spurred on a trend of big and bold engagement rings. From Angelina Jolie’s angular engagement ring to Lady Gaga’s enormous heart-shaped one, there are so many stunning rings to get inspiration from. It’s all about deciding on what style you love most and making the ring your own.
If you are looking to create a custom designed engagement ring in the San Diego area, Diamonds Forever is happy to help. Give us a call at 619-223-2151 to schedule an appointment or stop into our shop to browse our selection. We can’t wait to help you design the ring of your dreams!
