Antique and vintage engagement rings hold a certain magic…

An air of romance, unparalleled expert craftsmanship, and subtle hints of history that modern rings can rarely replicate. Whether you’re captivated by a charming Victorian filigree setting or a striking Art Deco mosaic of diamonds and colored gemstones, buying authentic antique jewelry requires a blend of confidence, curiosity, and just the right amount of caution — and that’s especially true when you’re shopping online. 

From finding the right jeweler to finding the right ring, here’s what every bride-to-be, jewelry collector, or romantic at heart should know before clicking that “add to cart” button:

1. Find a Reputable Jewelry Showroom for Your Online Engagement Ring Shopping

When it comes to antique jewelry, provenance is everything. Unlike new pieces that come fresh from the bench, vintage and antique engagement rings come with their own past — sometimes beautifully documented, sometimes not. This is why buying from a trusted jeweler’s website is non-negotiable.

Seek out jewelers who specialize in antique and estate pieces, particularly those with deep expertise in the eras you are interested in (e.g. Victorian, Art Deco, Modern Estate, etc.)  A reputable dealer will offer:

• Clear photography of their pieces from multiple angles
• Thorough descriptions of setting, gemstone(s), and era
• Transparent sizing services, repair, and return policies

• The opportunity to speak with a member of their team

There are quality antique jewelry showrooms that are fully digital, yet still offer the white-glove treatment, from virtual consultations to concierge shipping. If you're shopping for a piece as important as an engagement ring, you deserve more than just a confirmation email — you deserve to have a conversation with the trusted jewelry professional with whom you’ll be working, while still maintaining all the convenience of online shopping.

Call, text, or book a virtual appointment with Walton's!

Art Deco Platinum and Old European Cut Diamond Engagement Ring // Walton's Jewelry

2. Understand the Differences Between Antique and Modern Diamonds

Not all diamonds are cut alike. In fact, antique diamonds often look dramatically different from the modern brilliant-cut stones you’ll often see in engagement rings today. And that’s part of their charm. While modern diamond guides focus on the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight), these guidelines didn’t exist a century ago.

Read more on important distinctions in antique diamonds!

Before the Industrial Revolution, diamonds were cut by hand with an eye toward soft sparkle over precise symmetry. Here are a few antique diamond cuts you’ll encounter:

• Old Mine Cut – Slightly squared with curved edges, chunky facets, and a romantic inner glow
• Old European Cut – Rounded with a small table and high crown; precursor to the modern brilliant
• Rose Cut – Flat bottom with a domed and faceted top, with an elegantly low-profile

These diamonds tend to flicker like candlelight rather than flash like a spotlight. Expect a warmer, more intimate brilliance. Also keep in mind: antique stones often have quirks, like small inclusions or slightly off-center culets — not flaws, but fingerprints of the past.

Victorian Gold and Old Mine Cut Diamond Engagement Ring // Walton's Jewelry

3. Take Your Time Getting to Know Your Style (and Ring Size)

Falling in love with a vintage or antique engagement ring can happen in an instant, but knowing which style suits you best might take a little time.

Browse our collection of antique & estate engagement rings!

Do you dream of a sleek geometric platinum Art Deco ring? Or a delicate Victorian piece in scrolling filigree? Perhaps a retro rose gold solitaire feels more “you.” Antique rings aren’t one-size-fits-all in look or fit, so take the opportunity to soak up your favorite styles before you go shopping. Try these tips to find the perfect ring: 

• Save images of rings that catch your eye and build a digital vision board to see what patterns emerge. You’ll get daily inspiration when you follow Walton’s Jewelry on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook.
• Visit a local jeweler to determine your exact ring size. It can be tempting to try the string method or any other at-home means, but they simply aren’t accurate. Not all antique rings can be resized, so this is key!
  
• Pay special attention to the metal and stones that suit you best as you browse one-of-a-kind antique treasures, and prioritize finding a quality engagement ring from a reputable jeweler when the options are overwhelming.

Above all, make sure your ring suits your lifestyle. If you’re active or prefer a low-profile setting, keep that in mind and communicate that with your seller. The perfect engagement ring is the one you’ll never want to take off. An antique engagement ring isn’t just a piece of jewelry—it’s a promise steeped in history, a work of art forged by hand, and an intimate reflection of personal taste. Buying one online is absolutely possible (and often wonderful), so long as you shop smart, stay informed, and trust your instincts.

At Walton’s Jewelry, we have more than 50 years of experience serving Historic Downtown Franklin and the greater Nashville community. Each member of our team has trained at The Gemological Institute of America and has a deep passion for preserving the history and beauty of antique jewelry. Whether you are a Tennessee local looking to stop by our showroom or prefer to view our selection virtually, we invite you to explore our newest arrivals and reach out with any questions you may have.