What is a Victorian gypsy ring?
Victorian gypsy rings are one of the most distinctive jewels of the Victorian era. Pleasing to look at and also to wear, these chunky yellow gold rings feature one or more diamonds or gems deep-set into the band so that they sit flush with the surface of the gold.
What were Victorian engagement rings like?
Engagement rings from this era often featured bold geometric designs with a larger stone set in the centre of a border comprised of round and baguette cut diamonds or of coloured gemstones. Rings from this era are some of the most recognisable and sought after even nearly 100 years after they were made.
What makes a ring vintage style?
“Vintage” refers to anything at least 20 years old, while “antique” refers to anything at least 100 years old. When it comes to engagement rings, “vintage” usually signifies the ring’s style rather than its age.
Why are Victorian rings so small?
The heavy jewelry of the Grand Period didn’t fit well with women’s new active lifestyles. Therefore, women’s jewelry became lighter and smaller. Delicate rings, bracelets, and pins replaced the heavy opulence of previous years.
What does a gypsy ring look like?
Historically, a gypsy ring featured a rounded, tapered yellow gold band dotted with three equally-sized round-cut gemstones in a row. But it’s a template designers are constantly riffing on: in white or rose gold, with one stone or several, emerald-cut or pear-shaped.
Why is it called a gypsy setting?
The term gypsy ring refers to the setting of the stone: mounted flush with the metal. It was also common for symbols like crescent moons and stars to be carved into gipsy rings, adding femininity to what might otherwise be seen as a more masculine setting.
What did wedding rings look like in the 1800s?
Victorian wedding rings (1837-1901) were likely to be gold and often featured colored gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, amethyst, garnet, chalcedony, and topaz, as well as pearls. The rings are sometimes embellished with filigree and delicate engraving. One big variation is the hand on which the rings are worn.
Did Victorians give engagement rings?
The middle Victorian era is known as the Grand period. As world trade increased and access to gemstones became easier, larger gemstones were used in jewellery and with them more elaborate settings. Giving engagement rings was now ubiquitous, and the most popular style was the solitaire diamond.
How old does a ring have to be to be antique?
100 years old
In the past, jewelry appraisers said a ring must be 100 years old to be labeled an antique. This year of demarcation has been relaxed in recent times. Now, appraisers declare a ring must be only 50 years old.
What is a keeper ring?
In jewelry, a keeper ring is a close fitting ring of simple design which is worn on the finger to prevent another – more valuable – ring from sliding off that finger. Currently, keeper rings are still available but they are generally known as guard rings.