Antique Engagement rings
Posted on March 9th, 2010 by admin
Past few years have seen a rise in popularity of antique diamond rings amongst the people. After the discovery of diamonds in South Africa in 1860s, the use of diamonds increase substantially in the ring jewelries. It was for the first time that the emphasis was on the diamond and not on the metal in making of these jewelries for wedding or engagement purpose.
Until the advent of diamonds, the rings were mostly had engravings of flowers, snake, and showed the life and eternity symbols. Now, those very rings are once again finding the place in modern day people. A few years back, a diamond serpent ring was sold for more than $ 8000 US. The ring was owned by the wife of Charles Dickens. This ring had a diamond on the head of the serpent two deep red rubies as its eyes.
It was only after the diamond reserves were explored in South Africa that diamond prices fell and common people also were able to buy the rings having the precious stones. Antique engagement rings from the beginning of the 19th century showed remarkable changes in its manufacturing technique. It was for the first time that six platinum claws were used for holding the gem. After this development, the use of platinum started rapidly as this metal was lighter in weight.