Shoppers often feel undue pressure when choosing an engagement ring style. Many people might find themselves debating between modern and vintage engagement rings. Thankfully, this decision is not as complicated or overwhelming as it appears.

In this article, we break down the difference between vintage and modern styles (and where they overlap), so that you can make the best style choice for you. When you’re ready to start exploring engagement rings, discover contemporary yet timeless VRAI designs featuring lab-grown diamonds to find your dream style.

What Is Considered a Vintage Engagement Ring?

Vintage engagement rings feature design details from eras past. Vintage style rings may be truly vintage — antique rings that are purchased or passed down secondhand. These heirloom designs hold sentimental value. They often feature vintage stones such as antique Cushion cuts.

Vintage engagement rings can also be new rings with vintage-inspired designs. For example, many popular settings today are vintage, such as The Halo, The Bezel, and The Three Stone.

Most vintage engagement rings embody a specific era. For example, the Three Stone came into fashion in the Art Deco era, while Floral engagement rings are reminiscent of the Victorian period.

Every vintage ring tells a story, with a bold style that stands apart from many designs today. People often love vintage style designs for their bespoke or filigree detailing, timeless glamor, and historical significance.

Pros and Cons of Vintage Engagement Rings

Historic and timeless, there’s a reason so many vintage ring styles have endured today. While vintage designs range in style, the following pros and cons are examples of why vintage rings are better for some.

Pros:

• Historical.
• Has meaningful details that tell a story.
• Vintage can be more sustainable than new.
• Features intricate, bespoke detailing.
• Utilizes premium, enduring craftsmanship.

Cons:

• Requires more maintenance.
• Often costs more.

What Is a Modern Engagement Ring?

A modern ring refers to a ring with a contemporary, sophisticated style. Sleek, clean lines, minimalist designs, and unexpected materials define modern rings. Modern designs typically feature newer settings, but some historic settings have an inherently modern feel, such as The Bezel. After all, every engagement ring design was considered new, and therefore modern, upon its creation. Some eras, like the Art Deco era, introduced designs modeled after the innovation and architectural progress of the time. Some of these settings retain their contemporary look today.

Modern designs often appear understated at first glance with the emphasis on craftsmanship and premium materials over bold, intricate detailing and diamond accents. Many modern engagement rings are Solitaire rings. They often feature subtle updates that break away from traditional designs, such as unique center diamond shapes or intricate prong settings.

Modern rings represent the future, so they often use innovative materials like lab-grown diamonds, and have silhouettes inspired by geometry and architecture. Contemporary designs may elegantly incorporate curved, angular, or multiple bands, for example.

If you love minimalist style, chances are, you’ll gravitate toward modern styles.

Modern Engagement Rings Pros and Cons

If you love the look of a modern engagement ring, it's probably right for you. Consider the following pros and cons of modern rings before making your choice, however.

Pros:

• Can be more durable.
• Minimalist aesthetic.
• Innovative, distinct lines and angles.
• Newer diamond shapes.
• Often more affordable.
• Easier to find.
• Can be lower maintenance.

Cons:

• Less historic meaning.
• Less rare.

Discover Contemporary and Vintage-Inspired Designs at VRAI

Whether your heart is set on a ring that whispers tales of the past, or one that embodies bold innovation, your perfect match is out there.

Unmatched transparency and craftsmanship are what differentiates VRAI from the rest. Since the first VRAI created diamond was made, VRAI has been leading the way in innovation and creativity. VRAI lab-grown diamonds are grown in our own zero-emission foundry, the world’s first, powered by 100% renewable energy. Through our partnership with fourth-generation trained master diamond cutters, each VRAI created diamond is cut and polished to the highest standards, with cuts in the top 1% of the world.

VRAI's curated collection of engagement rings includes timeless yet modern designs with eye-catching vintage-inspired styles and contemporary creations. With unparalleled customizable details and the option to create your own bespoke piece, every VRAI design is made according to your specifications.

Vintage vs Modern Engagement Ring FAQ

Read on for more information on modern vs. vintage engagement rings.

Are Vintage Rings Worth More?

Vintage engagement rings aren’t necessarily worth more or less than contemporary engagement rings. Many vintage-inspired settings feature diamond accents and intricate detailing, so these embellishments will increase the value.

Heirloom rings may also feature rarer diamond shapes, materials, or designs that can add to their worth. Have your ring appraised to know its value.

Are Modern Engagement Rings as Sustainable as Vintage?

New doesn’t have to mean unsustainable. Modern rings can be as sustainable as vintage engagement rings if they are made from eco-friendly materials, by a sustainable jeweler, or feature lab-grown diamonds such as VRAI created diamonds grown in a zero-emission foundry. The materials and how the ring is made will determine if it’s sustainable.

Can I Blend Vintage and Modern Styles in One Ring?

Yes, you can mix and match vintage and modern styles to create a truly unique engagement ring design. These styles often complement each other.

For example, a sleek lustrous platinum band with a diamond halo is timelessly elegant. A linear, angular Trillion or Emerald cut diamond creates an Art Deco look when combined with vintage-inspired settings.

How Do I Care for a Vintage Engagement Ring?

To care for your vintage engagement ring, clean it regularly and take it to a professional for annual check-ups.

Are Modern Engagement Rings Customizable?

Yes, modern engagement rings are customizable. Many jewelers offer personalized details for contemporary designs, or you can create a custom design ring.