You’ve decided you want a ruby engagement ring—brilliant choice. But now you’re torn between vintage vs modern ruby ring designs. You’re not alone. Ruby rings are timeless, but the choice between old-world charm and contemporary elegance can feel surprisingly tricky. This guide is here to help you figure out which style aligns best with your personality, lifestyle, and values.
How Ruby Ring Designs Have Evolved Over Time
Ruby rings have adorned fingers for centuries, reflecting changing artistic styles and cultural moments.
- Victorian Era (1837–1901): Designs often featured romantic motifs such as hearts, flowers and serpents, crafted in warm yellow or rose gold.
- Edwardian Era (1901–1915): Platinum came into favour, with intricate filigree and lace-like detailing that exuded delicacy and refinement.
- Art Deco Era (1920s–30s): Known for bold, geometric patterns and strong symmetry, these designs offered a glamorous and modern aesthetic.
- Contemporary Trends: Today’s ruby rings focus on clean lines, versatile designs, and customisation, suited to everyday wear and personal expression.
Whether inspired by the elegance of the past or the simplicity of the present, ruby rings continue to evolve—while retaining their emotional depth and symbolic power.
Vintage Ruby Rings: A Touch of Romance and History
A vintage ruby ring usually refers to one made more than 20 to 30 years ago or designed in the style of a past era. These rings are rich in detail and often carry a sense of story and sentimentality.
Key Features:
- Craftsmanship: Intricate engraving, filigree, and milgrain edges created through handwork.
- Metals: Traditional choices like yellow gold, rose gold and early platinum.
- Gemstones: Vintage rings often feature old-cut rubies with unique inclusions or antique settings.
Advantages:
- Distinctive and one-of-a-kind, with no two pieces ever truly alike.
- Carries historical charm and emotional depth—ideal for those who love meaningful jewellery.
- Considered sustainable, as no new mining is required.
Points to Consider:
- May require more careful maintenance due to age and delicate settings.
- Limited sizing options; resizing may not always be possible.
- Ensure authenticity by requesting proper documentation and certification.
Modern Ruby Rings: Sleek, Customisable and Built for Today
Modern ruby rings are designed with contemporary lifestyles in mind—blending aesthetics, durability and innovation. These rings often highlight the gemstone itself, with settings that maximise brilliance.
Defining Characteristics:
- Design: Minimalist styles, geometric lines, and elegant simplicity.
- Metals: Popular choices include white gold, platinum, and contemporary alloys.
- Settings: Modern prong, bezel or tension settings that enhance the stone’s presence.
Benefits:
- Highly customisable, allowing full control over design, cut, metal and setting.
- Designed for everyday wear—durable, comfortable and practical.
- Ethical sourcing options and lab-grown rubies are widely available.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Modern ruby ring designs may not offer the historical depth or antique charm of vintage pieces.
- If made from newly mined materials, environmental impact can vary—though many jewellers now provide responsibly sourced options.
Another boon of modernity is ‘lab-grown rubies’: they’re just as real but way less expensive! Curious? Read the difference here.
| Feature | Vintage Ruby Rings | Modern Ruby Rings |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Ornate, detailed, historically influenced | Clean, minimalist, often geometric |
| Metals | Yellow gold, rose gold, early platinum | White gold, platinum, contemporary blends |
| Customisation | Limited to existing pieces | Fully customisable in all aspects |
| Durability | May need special care and gentle handling | Durable, ideal for regular wear |
| Symbolism | Represents heritage, romance, and tradition | Reflects individuality, innovation, and style |
| Investment Value | Can appreciate over time due to rarity | Varies by design and material; more consistent |
| Eco-friendliness | Environmentally friendly (no new mining) | Varies; ethical and lab-grown options available |
- Choose vintage if you appreciate craftsmanship, history, and romantic symbolism. Ideal for special occasions or as a family heirloom.
- Choose modern if you prefer contemporary design, personalisation, and durability. Perfect for those who wear their rings daily or want a custom piece to reflect their unique style.
- Or combine the two—modern rings with vintage-inspired elements offer the best of both worlds.
What to Know Before You Buy
Whichever style you choose, consider these practical aspects:
- Maintenance: Vintage rings may require more care. Clean regularly and check settings to preserve their integrity.
- Sizing & Fit: Sizing a vintage ring can be tricky. Always consult a jeweller before attempting adjustments.
- Certification: Whether buying vintage or modern, always ask for gemstone certification from trusted sources.
- Insurance: Protect your ring from loss or damage by getting it properly insured.
Both vintage and modern ruby rings have their own unique charm. One speaks to history and romance; the other to innovation and individuality. By considering your personal preferences, how you plan to wear the ring, and the story you want it to tell, you’ll find the style that truly reflects who you are.
Take your time exploring, and when you’re ready, let the ruby choose you too—it always knows where it belongs.
Explore Ruby Ring Collections at Angara
Whether you’re drawn to the character of vintage or the brilliance of modern design, Angara offers a wide range of BIS Hallmarked, certified ruby rings, all fully customisable to your preferences. Enjoy free insured shipping, a 15-day return policy, and our lifetime exchange and buyback guarantee.
Browse our ruby ring collection online or speak to our experts for personalised recommendations tailored to your style and story.
FAQs
1. What features should you look for in a ruby ring?
When buying a ruby ring, focus on colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight—just like diamonds. The most prized rubies have a vivid red hue, often called “pigeon blood red,” with minimal inclusions and excellent brilliance. Also, consider the type of metal (gold or platinum), the setting style, and whether the ruby is natural or lab-grown, with proper certification. A sturdy setting like bezel or prong ensures the gemstone stays secure for everyday wear.
2. What does a ruby engagement ring symbolise?
A ruby engagement ring symbolises passion, eternal love, strength, and commitment. Throughout history, rubies have been associated with the heart, fire, and deep emotional bonds. Choosing a ruby over a traditional diamond adds a personal, meaningful touch—perfect for couples who want their love story to stand out.
3. What are the reasons to propose with a ruby engagement ring?
Proposing with a ruby ring offers a bold and romantic alternative to the classic diamond. Rubies symbolise intensity and lasting devotion, making them ideal for a heartfelt proposal. They’re also rare, luxurious, and stand out beautifully in any setting. Plus, for those born in July or who value symbolism, a ruby engagement ring can feel deeply personal. It’s a unique choice that reflects both style and sentiment—perfect for modern couples seeking something meaningful yet timeless.
4. How do I know if a ruby ring is vintage or modern?
Vintage ruby rings are usually over 20–30 years old or inspired by historical eras. They often feature intricate designs, hand engraving, and older gemstone cuts. Modern rings tend to have clean, minimal lines and are made with current trends and technologies in mind.
5. Are vintage ruby rings more valuable than modern ones?
Vintage ruby rings can hold or even increase in value due to rarity and historical significance, especially if they’re well-preserved and come with proper documentation. Modern ruby rings may offer consistent value depending on gemstone quality, metal, and brand.
6. Which is better for daily wear: vintage or modern ruby rings?
Modern ruby rings are generally better suited for daily wear as they are designed for durability and low-maintenance comfort. Vintage rings, while beautiful, may require more care and are often best reserved for special occasions.
7. Can I customise a vintage ruby ring?
Customising a vintage ring is possible but limited. Most are one-of-a-kind pieces, and altering them may risk damaging the original craftsmanship. For full customisation, modern ruby rings are a better option.
