Heirloom engagement rings are rings that are passed down in the family. Some may be passed down from the grandmother or passed close relative of the groom-to-be, while others might be handed down by a living relative such as a mother. These rings can also be handed down by more distant relatives such as aunts.
What makes these rings special is the history behind them, as well as the significance that they hold. This adds plenty of romance while continuing a long-lasting legacy through generations of brides. With that said, these engagement rings are not always perfect for every type of bride. Those who prefer modern jewellery may be touched at the idea without loving the style of the ring. With this in mind, it is always a good idea to think carefully about heirloom rings before you propose. This guide shares some tips to help you get started.
Everything You Need to Know About Heirloom Engagement Rings
There are a few things that you should know about heirloom engagement rings. Some of the most important points to consider include the following:
Asking permission for the ring
In many families, rings are handed down to the oldest son or the first child to get engaged. In other families, rings may be kept somewhere safe until you ask whether you can give it to your beloved. If you are unsure of the protocol for this, it is best to keep it straightforward and simply ask your mother or father. Chances are high that they will be thrilled at the idea of continuing the tradition.
Consider your bride’s preferred style
Many vintage and antique rings are beautifully designed, with timeless styles that are every bit as stunning today as they were many decades ago. Others may feature stones, settings, designs or metals that are not suited to your bride’s style. Before you get down on your knee, take a good look at the ring and take a close look at the type of rings your love wears. Look at the metal she prefers, the stones she likes, the size of the ring she favours, and any other detail that gives you a hint on whether she would love this ring. If you are not sure it is her style and there is no way to make alterations to suit her preferences, it is better to go with a new ring instead.
Think carefully about alterations
You may need to have the ring resized, which is a simple alteration. It is a good idea to have the ring checked by a specialist to ensure that its settings are still in place. You could have the ring cleaned, too. You could have
stones reset or even changed to different types of gems. Depending on the ring, you may be able to change the band and keep the stones. Do not ever make changes without checking with your family, however. Although the important thing is keeping the ring in the family, making drastic changes may not be the right move if it turns the original ring into something completely different. It could also end up costing more to change the ring than to invest in a new ring.
Ultimately, whether or not you go with a heirloom ring will come down to personal preference and your unique family traditions. If you are looking for expert help in evaluating, resetting or customising your engagement ring, contact Cape Diamonds and we will help you add the final touches to your heirloom ring.