Antique Three-Stone Engagement Rings: The Ultimate Guide

When it comes to engagement rings, the choices can be overwhelming, but few styles hold as much significance and beauty as three-stone rings. Often referred to as “trinity” or “past, present, and future” rings, these exquisite pieces of jewellery have gained popularity amongst modern couples. Let’s investigate if an antique three-stone engagement ring is the perfect match for you.

The History of Three-Stone Rings

Though three-stone rings have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, their history dates back much further. The design can be traced to Victorian and Edwardian times, when elaborate jewellery designs featuring multiple stones were all the rage. The concept of three stones symbolising different aspects of life or love is steeped in these periods’ love for symbolism in jewellery.

The modern popularity of three-stone engagement rings was given a significant boost when Prince Harry proposed to Meghan Markle with a stunning three-stone ring in 2017. The ring featured a large centre diamond flanked by two smaller stones from Princess Diana’s personal collection. This royal endorsement has inspired countless variations of the style, bringing three-stone rings back into the spotlight for today’s couples.

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The Symbolism Behind Three-Stone Engagement Rings

Three-stone engagement rings are more than just beautiful jewellery; they are rich in symbolism. Each stone typically represents a different aspect of a couple’s journey together:

Past, Present and Future

The first stone signifies the past—the memories, experiences, and milestones that brought you and your partner together. It represents the foundation of your relationship, encompassing everything from your first date to the challenges you’ve overcome. The central stone represents the present. It embodies your current love, commitment, and dedication to one another. This stone is often larger than the others, symbolising the importance of your relationship today. The third stone signifies the future—the dreams, aspirations, and goals you hold together. It embodies hope for what lies ahead and the journey you will embark on as a couple. This stone reminds you to cherish your shared vision for life and love. This link to the past rings even more true with antique three-stone engagement rings as they are both from the past and are given as a commitment to the future.

Many couples customise the meaning of their antique three-stone rings. For some, the three stones can represent friendship, love, and fidelity—key aspects of a long-lasting relationship. For others, they can symbolise family or important milestones like the birth of a child. This versatility in meaning adds to the charm of this ring style.

Styles of Antique Three-Stone Engagement Rings

One of the great advantages of three-stone rings is their versatility. They come in various styles, allowing couples to choose a design that reflects their personality and preferences. Here are some popular styles to consider:

1. Classic Three-Stone Setting

The classic three-stone setting features three equally sized stones arranged in a row, with the centre stone often being slightly larger. This design allows each stone to shine brightly, drawing attention to the rich symbolism behind the ring. A perfect choice for those who appreciate traditional, timeless aesthetics.

2. Period Three-Stone Designs

Though the overall effect is the same, the period of an antique three-stone engagement ring can better match your partner’s personality. The angular, geometric design of Art Deco match a bold, sleek partner. Whilst the soft curves of the Victorian versions are perfect for a more sensuous romantic

3. Coloured Gemstone Designs

Modern trend is for a wholly diamond three-stone engagement ring. For a unique twist, many couples opt for a combination of gemstones in their three-stone rings. For example, pairing a diamond with two coloured gemstones, such as sapphires, emeralds, or rubies, creates a striking contrast that reflects the couple’s individuality. However, throughout history, it was usual to have the opposite combination; diamonds flanking of a central coloured gemstone like ruby, sapphire, emerald or even amethyst. Ironically, these timeless looks may now be more of a statement than the newer, trendier combination.

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Why Choose an Antique Three-Stone Engagement Ring?

Three-stone rings offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for engagement rings:

1. Meaningful Symbolism

The primary appeal of a three-stone ring lies in its rich symbolism. For couples looking to express their unique journey, this design offers a heartfelt way to showcase their love story.

2. Versatility

Three-stone rings come in a range of styles, allowing for personalisation based on taste and budget. Whether you prefer classic or modern designs, there’s a three-stone ring to suit every couple.

3. Brilliance and Sparkle

With three stones, there’s an abundance of sparkle! This design offers more surface area for light to hit, resulting in a dazzling display that captures attention and admiration.

4. Timelessness

While trends come and go, the elegance of a three-stone ring remains timeless. This makes it a wonderful investment piece that can be cherished for generations.

(Arm yourself with more bonus tips and insider secrets for your engagement ring quest in our Engagement section.)

Conclusion

Whether you opt for a classic all-diamon design or a mixed gemstone creation your antique three-stone stone engagement ring is sure to capture the essence of your love story: past, present, and future.