Marquise Flawless

Shopping for the right antique, new or vintage engagement ring can prove daunting.

Whether you’re looking for that perfect Art Deco engagement ring, an antique Edwardian period engagement ring or a fashionable contemporary alternative, it’s important to choose a style that speaks to you.

Rings have long been signifiers of marriage and committed relationships. The modern diamond engagement ring can be traced back to 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria commissioned an expensive diamond ring for his betrothed. Diamond rings subsequently became extremely popular among the European aristocracy. Later, during the Victorian era, the popularity of diamond engagement rings had filtered down to the middle class, owing to the increasing accessibility — and affordability — of gold and diamonds. 

Victorian-era engagement rings were simple, frequently set in rose or yellow gold. The diamonds were five-set in a band or solitaire. In 1886, Tiffany debuted its innovative six-prong diamond solitaire engagement ring, while Cartier’s Solitaire 1895 engagement ring resembled delicate lace. Victorian-era engagement rings also saw other gemstones accompanying diamonds — small seed pearls and moonstones were popular. Other sentimental and romantic motifs such as hearts and stars took hold as well.

Edwardian and, afterward, Art Deco engagement rings that followed in the wake of Queen Victoria’s death in 1901 would be characterized by complex, geometric designs and platinum settings. Owing to the Art Nouveau movement, nature was a major theme for Edwardian jewelry, while the diamond ring designs of the Art Deco period were inspired by Cubism as well as ancient Egypt. Art Deco engagement rings are bold and colorful and feature gems cut in nontraditional ways. 

Engagement rings designed after World War II were intended to be simpler and focused on the beauty of the diamond. In 1947, De Beers Consolidated Mines, with the support of Philadelphia agency N.W. Ayer & Son, introduced the slogan “A diamond is forever” in a marketing campaign that emphasized a connection between diamonds and romance. Diamond sales skyrocketed, and diamond engagement rings became intertwined with the post–World War II marriage boom — which coincided with the ascension of specific diamond cuts. The round brilliant cut, which consists of an astounding 58 facets, continues to be the most popular cut to this day. Jewelers such as Harry Winston had already gained a reputation for his talents by the time the De Beers campaign debuted, and he is said to have favored emerald-cut diamonds. 

For everything from understanding the 4Cs to choosing between antique, vintage, contemporary and custom styles, get expert tips to help you find just the right ring — see our engagement ring buying guide.

When you're ready to mark your momentous occasion, find a vast collection of engagement rings on 1stDibs.