Victorian Wedding Rings

Vintage, Victorian-era jewelry was made during Queen Victoria's reign, in the mid-1830's through the end of the 19th century. Historians often break Victorian jewelry into three periods: Early Romantic (mid 1830's - 1850), Mid Grand (1860's - 1870's), and Late Aesthetic (mid 1880's - 1900). Many early-era Victorian rings featured elaborate settings. The composition of wedding and engagement rings changed from early to late Victorian era. Before opening of the South African diamond mines around 1870, diamonds were scarce and expensive. Tiny stones were used to accent larger, colorful gemstones. With increased availability of diamonds came a wider variety of styles, often mixing large diamonds and other gemstones, such as sapphires and rubies.

The Old Mine cut (sometimes called Old Miners or simply Mine) is characteristic of the era. It is a multi-faceted brilliant cut, designed to most effectively reflect light. The Mine differs from the modern brilliant cut in shape, proportion, and other detail. The serpent is also characteristic of Victorian engagement rings. Snakes were said to symbolize eternity and to bring good luck, so were a natural symbol of engagement. This design was especially popular because Queen Victoria wore a serpent engagement ring.

Shop: gold & diamond or silver & CZ Victorian rings.

Special thank you to writing coach, editor, and ghostwriter Bobbi Linkemer, who contributed the original material throughout MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com.