American’s have always been a nostalgic bunch.  No matter the current fashion trend there is always an appreciation for vintage and antique designs.  For years many have forgone the contemporary and instead purchased antique wedding rings, furniture, clothing, and accessories.  In the early 1900s the modern movement began, but as opposed to completely embracing the new design styles, Americans sparked a revival period of the Classics from centuries before.

In this country we saw homes designed with ancient Greek, medieval England, and Colonial American influences, as opposed to the new American style of architecture that was developing.  In fact, it was not until the victorious end of World War Two and the positive national vibe that winning the battle prompted, that people in this country began to truly embrace futuristic styles.  Our national mood had been lifted; we were keeping our faces pointed ahead, there was no desire to look back.

During times of economic or societal depression, Americans are exceedingly more nostalgic, and contemporary designers have the most difficult time with product sales. The idea that bygone eras were happier times gives antique wedding rings, furniture, art, clothing, and accessories a deeper meaning for the buyer, and owning these pieces of nostalgia improves their psychology.  People flock to flea markets, estate sales, and online stores and auctions for little pieces of the past, perhaps also because they hope to save money on their purchase.  When money is tight, we hold onto it a little stronger, so our purchases become more emotional.  Choosing to buy an antique wedding ring over a contemporary style gives the buyer the sense that their wedding ring is extra special, and thus worth the expense.

In America’s current state of economic and political strife, antique wedding rings, antique engagement rings, and antique themed weddings and wedding gowns are all the rage.  Many brides are purchasing their wedding gowns from vintage clothing stores because the history makes the dress more meaningful as well as less expensive.  This trend continues not just because the antique styles are nostalgic and less expensive, but also because they are more available.  Many out of work and down on their luck Americans have been selling their family heirlooms for cash, increasing the supply of antique wedding rings and wedding gowns in the market.

Antiques, such as wedding rings, are also appreciated for their beauty. Antique wedding rings are more detailed than many modern styles, making them unique.  In the early 1900s, new technologies were introduced that allowed jewelry designers the ability to create detailed and intricate designs with platinum.  The fashion trends of the era also urged elaborate details in wedding and engagement rings and designers created many very elaborate pieces with scrollwork, filigree, and floral designs. If you would like a ring reminiscent of earlier years, take a look at these antique wedding and engagement rings pictured below.

One Fifth CT TW Link Pattern Diamond Anniversary Ring in 14K White or Yellow Gold

Half CT TW Renaissance Styled Diamond Anniversary Ring in 14K White Gold

Half CT TW Antique Styled Five Stone Diamond Anniversary Ring with Milgrain Accents in 14K White or Yellow Gold

Vintage Styled Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring

Tags: antique engagement rings, antique inspired wedding rings, antique wedding bands, Antique Wedding Rings

This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 30th, 2009 at 11:40 am and is filed under Wedding Ring Trends. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.