Some Common Vintage Ring Settings

When searching for a vintage ring, it will sometimes be helpful to understand how some of the most common types of vintage ring settings were designed.

During the time we often hear referred to as the Victorian period, most rings were designed with yellow or rose gold. Diamond mining was somewhat scarce at this time so ring settings were often created with center stones of less expensive gems surrounded by smaller diamonds. Near the end of this period however, the single, dramatic diamond set with a six prong setting was created. This simple beauty was much less ornate than previous Victorian jewelry. Known commonly as a Tiffany setting, it is still a popular choice for those loving a beautiful, simple solitaire.

During the Edwardian time period, platinum became the metal of choice for rings and other jewelry. The most common vintage ring settings that can be found today from this period are round cut diamonds with diamonds or other stones on the sides. The settings and shanks of rings during the Edwardian period were very intricate and highly detailed, often designed with leaves, hearts, flowers etc.

Ring design of The Art Deco period reverted back to simpler designs doing away with the lacy filigrees of the Edwardian period. The simple 4 prong setting gained interest. Although the settings were quite simple, this was a day that favored larger stones in the more bold emerald or rectangular cut, and the elaborate rounded diamond, marquis cuts.

The term “Pave” came out of this period and many vintage ring settings were of this design. This design contained many small stones glued in a cluster to look like one continuous surface of stones. Small stones of the same type are continued on the shank. This is one of the most intricate vintage ring settings, one that still exists in modern jewelry design.