{"id":964250,"date":"2024-12-09T20:17:10","date_gmt":"2024-12-09T20:17:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.antiquejewellerycompany.com\/?p=964250"},"modified":"2024-12-09T20:18:55","modified_gmt":"2024-12-09T20:18:55","slug":"how-to-choose-the-perfect-antique-eternity-ring","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.antiquejewellerycompany.com\/how-to-choose-the-perfect-antique-eternity-ring\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Choose the Perfect Antique Eternity Ring"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

An eternity ring<\/a>, often called an infinity ring, may seem simple but they come with a deep symbolism, a rich history, and a wide variety of designs each carrying their own meaning and charm. Here\u2019s a guide to help you choose the perfect antique or vintage eternity ring for any occasion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Symbolism of the Eternity Ring<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The unbroken circle design of the eternity ring represents infinite or eternal<\/em> love. Their message of commitment and devotion is why, nowadays, they’re a traditional gift for anniversaries, the birth of a child, or any significant life milestone<\/strong>. The continuous line of gemstones, usually diamonds<\/a>, adds to the representation of resilience found in everlasting love, as diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Brief History of Eternity Rings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Eternity rings date back to Ancient Egypt around 2000 BC<\/strong> as a symbol of eternal love and life with their continuous, unbroken circle. Sometimes depicted with a snake swallowing its tail, known as the ouroboros<\/em>, the circle depicts the eternal cycle of life and death. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The ouroboros <\/em>in its original Egyptian context symbolised repetition and renewal. This is fitting as in marriage couples change and their love consistently regenerates. In essence, eternity rings celebrate love and life in all forms. Whether a token of self-love, a gift from a partner, or a present from a parent, they are a gift for everyone\u2014single, partnered, or married. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This tradition faded over time but resurfaced in Europe around the <\/strong>Victorian Period, where eternity rings joined engagement rings<\/a>, wedding bands<\/a>, and promise rings as popular symbols of commitment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did you know?<\/p>Queen Victoria’s engagement ring was a snake- it’s rumoured this ring kicked off the fashion for engagement rings!<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

For more information on serpent imagery in jewellery read up on The Seductive Romance of Snake Jewellery<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n

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The modern eternity ring<\/strong> took shape in the 1960s<\/strong>, thanks to the discovery of small diamonds in the Soviet Union. Since these diamonds were too small for traditional engagement rings, jewellers began setting them around bands, marketing them to husbands as meaningful gifts for anniversaries and other post-wedding commitments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Today, new mums receive eternity rings as a gift for giving birth (or a “push present”), very apt considering its history as the symbol of continuing life.<\/p>\n\n\n

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To learn more about gifts for mums-to-be here are 5 Perfect Push Present Ideas<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding the Different Styles<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Antique eternity rings come in several styles, allowing you to find a design that perfectly fits your lifestyle and taste:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Full Eternity Ring<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This style features stones encircling the entire band, creating a luxurious, dazzling effect. Full eternity rings are perfect for special occasions, but the presence of stones around the entire band may make them less suited for those who work with their hands or need a practical, everyday ring.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Half Eternity Ring<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Designs have stones that cover the front half of the band only. This is a practical choice for everyday wea<\/strong>r, providing comfort and elegance without the full circle of gemstones. Half eternity rings are also often more budget-friendly<\/strong> while still delivering a beautiful sparkle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is also the Three-Quarter Eternity Ring<\/strong>, which is a fab balance middle-way to the full and half eternity styles. This design provides more brilliance than a half eternity ring while offering a little more comfort and practicality than a full eternity ring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Choosing the Right Metal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The choice of metal can affect the look and durability of your antique eternity ring. Here are a few popular options:<\/p>\n\n\n

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