1. Vintage engagement rings are unique. Unlike most of what’s available in your typical jewelry store, a vintage engagement ring is not being churned out by the hundreds. This piece has its own history and its own composition. There may be similar rings out there, but each one is special.

2. Vintage engagement rings are REALLY pretty. Antique engagement rings tend to balance design and materials in a way that’s more balanced than the contemporary emphasis on materials. The workmanship is often more detailed than on contemporary pieces, and the decorative motifs are typically more fully-developed in a vintage piece than in jewelry made today.

3. A vintage engagement ring is a connection to the past. There’s no relationship that’s quite like yours. But people have been getting married for EONS, and it’s nice to be reminded that you’re not alone in this, you’re together with a long tradition of people experiencing joy and sadness, elation followed by some slogging through. It helps to keep things in context.

4. A vintage engagement ring is a good value. The labor involved in recreating most vintage pieces would be cost-prohibitive today. Also, vintage rings tend to do a great job of using details and design elements to highlight materials, so a vintage engagement ring with a small-ish stone tends to look more substantial than the same small-ish stone in a modern setting.

5. Vintage engagement rings are eco-friendly. Vintage engagement rings are the ultimate in stewardship. So if you’re thinking about seven generations ahead (or even just about your own self living on a nice planet), selecting a ring that’s already in existence instead of making and using more STUFF seems like a no-brainer.