Recognizing Edwardian Style Engagement Rings

There's no denying the elegant beauty of Edwardian style engagement rings. The Edwardian time period spanned from 1901 to 1910 during the reign of King Edward. Although this time period was rather brief, the impact it had on jewelry was major. The engagement rings of this era are some of the most beautiful found anywhere. These rings can be purchased from specialty jewelers and antique stores, often for a pretty penny. It is not uncommon for one of these rings to cost several thousand dollars.

You will notice lacy details and delicate filigree work on many Edwardian rings. The majority of rings crafted during this time were made from platinum and diamonds. Platinum is the most beautiful, durable metal for jewelry making and thus the most expensive. White diamonds were favored during this time but you may come across colored stones also. When it comes to the intricate detailing of these rings, you will find gorgeous scrollwork surrounding the stones, either on the shoulders of the band or as a plaque around the stone. Some of these rings are quite large and dramatic while others are more delicate.

As mentioned earlier, diamonds weren't the only stone used for engagement rings in Edwardian times. Another popular stone was the sapphire. For example, the Fay Cullen company offers an Edwardian ring that features a Ceylon sapphire flanked by mine cut diamonds, set in platinum. This stunning ring features the delicate scrollwork of the era on either side of the sapphire. Other popular gems of this time include peridot, aquamarine and emerald. Many women do prefer the fire and flashiness of white diamonds, however. They do look beautiful paired with intricate platinum bands as were popular during this time period.

If you love the look of Edwardian style engagement rings but can't afford one, you can find a reproduction. Reproductions take advantage of modern jewelry making technology and can be made to look like real antiques without the high price tag. You will often find the diamonds and gemstones of today to be higher in quality simply because of the high tech cutting and shaping methods. There are quite a few jewelry designers who will work with you to create a customized ring made to your exact specifications. You can get the Edwardian look in a ring that has been made especially for you.