A perfectly manicured hand proffered towards the camera with the glimpse of a wide grin in the background is an image we're all too familiar with on social media. And while the caption 'I said yes', or the appearance of a proud fiancé/e smiling with the knowledge that they've 'done good' might warrant a 'like', we must admit, it's the sparkling engagement ring that always draws us in.

In recent years we've noticed an emerging trend to these joyous engagements announcements - a comment or follow-up post from the newly-betrothed paying homage to the ring's antique or vintage provenance, whether it's been passed down from generation to generation, or lovingly sourced from an antique jeweller.

Global fashion shopping platform Lyst has confirmed our suspicions that old hardwear is 'in' with the newly betrothed, informing us that searches for 'vintage engagement rings' have risen 24%, year-on-year.

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'As the appetite for sustainability and second-hand fashion continues to grow, it isn’t surprising to see that more and more couples are looking to incorporate more vintage pieces to their big day,' Lyst's content lead Morgane Le Caer says of the company's findings.

We already know that more brides are turning to vintage and second-hand wedding dresses, so it makes sense the desire for an ecologically low impact but precious and meaningful item seems to have spread to engagement rings too.

'One of the biggest trends we have been seeing in 2021 is that of sustainability,' Bernadette Chapman, founder of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (UKAWP), tells ELLE UK.

'Couples are consciously make decisions about their wedding and the impact on the environment and thus having a vintage ring appeals to couples as they know they're rescuing a beautiful piece of history. And like all romantics, they love the story behind the ring as well.'

Besides, what is more romantic than knowing your ring is likely pretty ethical?

vintage engagement ring
Max Mumby/Indigo//Getty Images
The Duchess of Cambridge with her engagement ring that once belonged to her late mother-in-law Princess Diana

'Couples are far more aware of human cruelty around the world and especially communities that exploit cruelty, violence and low pay to mine the many diamonds you see on rings today,' Chapman agrees. 'By purchasing an antique ring you can be more confident that you have not funded such cruelty.'

But if you're not lucky enough to have Royal Family-worthy heirlooms, opting for a vintage engagement ring will mean heading to an antique jewellers for us mere mortals. And, as with any second-hand purchase, consumers may understandably be hesitant to invest in something pre-owned, particularly online, often questioning if the source is reputable or if the quality is up to scratch.

To find out how to source a vintage engagement ring, we spoke to Sullivan Taylor, founder of the online marketplace The Vintage Jeweller, to learn more.

Why are more people are opting for vintage engagement rings?

'One of the main reasons is the sustainability aspect, but there is also something romantic about owning something physical from the past.

'Vintage and antique items were also made entirely by hand and customers have an appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication that went into making these pieces. We live in a world with a lot of mass production so it’s nice to have something unique that expresses your personality.'

Vintage Engagement Rings To Shop Now
Georgian Rose Cut Diamond Crown Ring Circa. 1810s 18ct Gold and Silver
Georgian Rose Cut Diamond Crown Ring Circa. 1810s 18ct Gold and Silver
£8,500 at ebay.co.uk
Gold Diamond Ring - Victorian Ruby and Diamond Three Row Ring 18ct Yellow Gold
Gold Diamond Ring - Victorian Ruby and Diamond Three Row Ring 18ct Yellow Gold
Art Deco Style Sapphire and 0.91 Carat Diamond Cluster Ring 18ct White Gold
Art Deco Style Sapphire and 0.91 Carat Diamond Cluster Ring 18ct White Gold
1.30 Carat Heart Shaped Emerald and Diamond Ring
1.30 Carat Heart Shaped Emerald and Diamond Ring

What are the most popular eras and styles of vintage engagement ring?

'I have noticed a growing number of people moving away from the classic solitaire and towards something more personal and unique.

'Art Deco springs to mind as a popular era - the designs are bold and sleek with an emphasis on geometric shapes and clean lines, making them very different to jewels from eras before and instantly recognisable, even today.'

Which are your favourite eras and styles of vintage engagement ring?

'I have a tendency to prefer the older pieces - I like the idea that you’re never going to be able to find another one exactly the same. Even the diamonds used centuries ago were cut by hand, making each one unique and full of character.

'I recently sold a Victorian-era ring with delicate floral shoulders set with diamonds. It’s very charming and characteristic of the craftsmanship of the time. This week a client chose a ring with a sapphire as the centre stone. The stone - which is 6.28 carat, of Burmese origin and with no evidence of any treatments or enhancements - is set in an archetypal Art Deco mount. It’s not a traditional choice of engagement ring, but I love it and was very happy they bought it.'

Does a buyer get 'more for their money' with a vintage engagement ring, over new engagement ring?

'They will be buying a one off piece which has appeal and value to it.

'The choice of where you buy your ring is also important, you can find good value by shopping with independent sellers as they are not always subject to the overheads that large retailers are. Also antique jewellery, as it’s becoming harder to find and source, will continue to hold its value well.'

Why is a vintage engagement ring the more sustainable choice?

'To combat the environmental challenges we face, it makes more sense to reuse precious metals and gemstones reducing the demand for newly mined materials and consequently, reducing the damage done to the environment from the effects of mining practices.'

What are your top tips for buying a vintage engagement ring?

'So many people get caught up on the characteristics of the diamond, they look for a diamond with a particular colour or clarity grade. While these factors are definitely important and you want to make sure you do your research so as not to be ripped off, ultimately it's the style and feel of the ring that's important.

'For your engagement ring, which you are going to wear everyday, it’s got to be personal to you. The ring has to mean something more to you than a diamond grading on a certificate.'

How can someone tell they're buying a vintage engagement ring from a reputable source?

'Like so many online platforms we rely heavily on a feedback system. We have many Google Reviews, as well as a 100% positive feedback rating on our eBay store which allows customers to shop with confidence.

antique engagement ring
Getty Images

'Word of mouth is also a useful tool. If you speak to a friend who has had a positive experience buying their engagement ring, this could be a good starting point.'

Is maintenance and resizing different for vintage engagement rings?

'Most antique and vintage pieces have proved their durability through their long lifespans, but they should still be treated with care. For peace of mind it’s a good idea to have your ring serviced by a reputable jeweller.

'One thing to be cautious of when resizing is the hallmark and any other markings on the inside of the band. As a result of resizing you may lose the old hallmark which allows you to precisely date the ring. If the piece is signed by a designer or jewellery house you have to be very careful not to lose this as it can impact the value significantly.'

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