After hearing from our readers of a few horror stories, we decided to turn to our favorite vintage engagement ring expert Leigh Nacht for some useful buying tips. If you are considering a vintage engagement ring, you should read this article before purchasing it.
In the last few years, interest in true vintage and antique engagement rings has grown to a point that they now command a notable, albeit select, presence in the bridal market. Future brides and grooms are looking to vintage for a variety of reasons: the love of the artistry of true vintage design. They are seeking something truly “one of a kind”. They have fallen in love with the romance and history of a particular era. They like knowing that their jewelry is free of any current political conflicts and have no negative environmental impact.
Although fans of antique and vintage jewelry couldn’t imagine liking anything else, the reality is that most jewelers have very limited understanding of this small niche of the market. While most are interested in offering styles that offer a “vintage look” – how this is interpreted often falls short of the exceptional quality that typifies the genuine article or, in many cases, not a true vintage piece at all!
So, how does one in the market for a vintage ring knows where to go? Most novice jewelry shoppers are already daunted by all the information online about diamonds, metal choices, value, etc.. for a regular newly made ring…how can they navigate through another maze of choices?
Rest assured – there is a way. It’s not complicated. You don’t need to jump through a new set of hoops. It involves a wonderful balance between high tech and old school tradition.
First – the “high tech”: do a little basic online research. Type in “Antique Engagement Ring” and you’ll be sure to bring up a host of vendors. Browse a few – find ones you like – then turn to a good review website. Yelp, Google Plus, etc… will generally have very helpful information about the company, their products, and their service. Now that you’ve narrowed your base – it’s time to go “old school”
Get to know your Jeweler
Online shopping is a very new concept. When people went to shop for a ring– they went to the local jeweler that their families had visited for years. Times have changed but – just because a company has an online presence – that doesn’t mean that you can’t have the same experience, the same close relationship, with your jeweler the way that your parents and grandparents had with theirs. Give them a call, ask questions, let them know what you want: a true vintage ring, a newly made ring with a vintage diamond, a complete reproduction… whether or not you get to visit a jeweler in person or conduct your entire transaction long distance – a jewelry professional should be happy to answer every and any question that you have about the items that they sell – and jewelry in general.
It’s the goal of every good jeweler to make sure that the customer is happy and feels confident and reassured that their concerns and desires will be handled with the utmost care. Here are a few tips of qualities to look for in a jeweler whether you are looking to buy a vintage ring or a reproduction:
How long have they been in business? A jeweler with many years of experience will not only have built a solid reputation, but will have the expertise in understanding vintage items and the nature of their care. While those new to the industry may have very good intentions, there is a definite advantage of working with someone who has seen much over many years .
How is their return policy? A jeweler who is confident in their product should extend a clear and fair return policy on their standing inventory so you have time to consider your choice. Can they explain the nuances of vintage jewelery? Explain the differences in the way stones were cut and the methods of fabrication used to build rings in the past compared to methods used today? Are their products accompanied by GIA reports and/or Appraisals from an accredited Appraisal house? Can they explain the details of these documents to you in clear “layman’s” terms.
In answering your questions, your jeweler should be clear and direct – not confuse you with jargon or nebulous responses. Will they stand behind the quality of their pieces? Vintage jewelry usually needs specialized care when worn on a regular basis and repairs will be needed down the road. A good jeweler will want to help you keep your vintage engagement ring in excellent shape – at a fair and reasonable cost – for life.
At the end of the day – people to whom you look for help should do exactly that – be of help to you.
Leigh
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