Edwardian Engagement Rings

Edwardian engagement rings come from a time when fashion and elegance became increasingly important.

It was the Belle Epoque in continental Europe and King Edward and his wife Alexandra enjoyed the rapidly changing times.

The Edwardian era began in 1901 and marked not only a new century but also the end of the Victorian period.

Queen Victoria's death in 1901 and Edward's succession to the throne changed the political & economic climates. Edward took on the role as a fashionable elite and set the tone for the era that bears his name.

The Edwardian era runs from 1901 to 1910 although it is often extended beyond the King's death all the way up to 1919.

Edwardian Style

The tight corsets of the Victorian era were loosened and eventually discarded and new, more mobile and free flowing styles of clothing were embraced.

Engagement rings and other jewelry reflected the changing fashions and began to follow suit. Lighter and more delicate designs became a top priority.

Platinum, white gold and even silver replaced the yellow and rose gold of the previous era in order to achieve the new lighter aesthetic. Platinum became very popular due to it's strength and hardness which allowed for less visible settings.

With platinum, very little metal could be used and jewelers were able to create intricate, light and lacy designs with lots of perforations in the metal.

White on white became the ultimate statement for luxury and elegance so for Edwardian jewelry, this translated into diamonds and/or pearls set in platinum or white gold.

This isn't to say that Edwardian engagement rings are simple or less interesting than their earlier counterparts—they are in fact, more often than not, intricate and beautifully detailed.

Although the rich deep tones and heavy designs of the Victorians were no longer in style, the new Edwardian aesthetic incorporated modern neo-classic designs, had a richness all its own, and inspires many replicas today.

Old Mine Cut diamonds and Old European Cut diamonds were usually the centerpiece of Edwardian engagement rings and were often framed in filigree work. Garlands, swags and bows, ribbons, romantic scrollwork, and accent stones would be carefully woven into an overall ring design with unique complexity. We think this is why they are so popular today, they seem to have a timeless quality about them.

Towards the end of the era, modern motifs of stars and crescents emerged and the Amethyst, a favorite of Alexandra's, became one of the more popular gemstones found in Edwardian jewelry. She and Edward travelled extensively and being a fashionista brought back design elements from the various cultures she had seen. Her influence can be seen throughout the period.

Edwardian Engagement Rings Today

Authentic antique Edwardian engagement rings, like all antique jewelry, are becoming increasingly hard to find these days although they are still available. Online specialty jewelers, such as FayCullen, who trade solely in antique pieces are probably your best bet for finding one.

Beware of less reputable dealers who might not really know their stuff or try to mislead you.

Finally, never even consider purchasing a piece without some form of independent appraisal or certification.

However if you're interested in Edwardian style more than an actual period piece, you can find many Edwardian replica engagement rings at some quality retailers.