Ornate, creative, and decadent; 1940's engagement rings were styled during the romantic and economic hardships of WWII. Lovers waved goodbye, traveling towards dangers a world away. Platinum was scarce, but it didn't stop these rings from embodying the passion and love intensified from the perils of war.
1940's Engagement Rings - The Retro Era
Materials
Platinum was reserved for the war effort, and jewelers turned to palladium and white gold for the coveted white metal look. Two tone engagement rings were still in vogue but with the new more structured styles.
Styles
The feminine and curvier designs of the mid 1930's and early 1940's began to seem too frivolous for a world at war, and styles began to change quickly. The Retro Movement saw the use of inspiration from the most unlikely sources, the war itself. Bracelets resembled the treads of tanks and red white and blue jewels became popular. Engagement rings saw more structured design aesthetic ushered in as the seriousness of the war was upper most in their minds.
Gems
With patriotism at an all time high in America, Rubies and Sapphires that glistened in colors of red and blue joined the Diamond as popular choices for engagement rings.
Latest Arrivals - 1940's Engagement Rings
The beautiful simplicity of this ring gives it a timeless quality. Dating from the 1940's and set with an excellent diamond this platinum engagement ring is as classically wearable today as it was 75 years ago.
This ring comes with an insurance appraisal. All of our appraisals are done by an independent gem lab. This ring appraises for $5785. The central diamond is a .56 ct. Round Brilliant Full cut. The diamond is a VVS-2 F/G. The setting is Platinum.
Details.....Currently a size 5.5, one free sizing is included. The diamond measures 5.08mm x 5.07mm x 3.45mm. The band tapers from 2.93mm to 1.88mm at the back.
You're In Great Hands
JEWELRY HISTORIANS
Member of the American Society of Jewelry Historians. Just ask for information on any piece and we will tell you about the era and more.
FREE SHIPPING
Free shipping for the USA. Fast, insured, and secure! Your package will be carefully prepared and delivered in a timely manner.
ALWAYS FREE RESIZING
Trust that your ring will be a perfect fit. Don't know your size? That is OK, we will find out together with a sizing tool.
RECYCLED
Whether you purchase an antique or vintage piece, our handcrafted 720 line, or Ancient Influences line, all of gems and metal are recycled.
SECURE PAYMENTS
In-store and online, your payment security is a top priority. We are PCI compliant and SSL secure! Make your purchase with peace of mind. We accept all major credit cards.
PACKAGED WITH LOVE
Our Jewels always ship in our elegant signature packaging, great for gift-giving!
Lovely Words From Past Customers
"I adore my ring (1940s white gold with diamonds and lab sapphires) and can't wait to come in and have it sized with y'all. Thank you again. You made one of the happiest events of my life even more special with your incredible product. All the best,"
Kate & Derek
15 SEP 2018, 8:42
"Bought my Engagement ring here & it's So Beautiful!!! Vintage 1940's Sapphire & Diamonds in a Platinum seething. Their jewelry is Amazing & Great Customer Service!!!"
Kelly Smith
20 MAR 2019, 12:21
"I saw a ring I loved online and asked a ton of questions via Facebook messenger. They were so responsive and helpful! The whole process was so simple and the ring was shipped in no time. It's BEAUTIFUL! It fits just perfectly and I couldn't be happier! Thank you!"
Betty Rivera
15 SEP 2017, 14:42
Recent Accolades
"Top 20 Portland Jewelers"
Thank you to Expertise.com who recently selected Gem Set Love as one of 20 top Jewelers serving the Portland area. They reviewed 141 Portland Jewelers and graded all of us based on - Reputation, Credibility, Experience, Availability, and Professionalism.
Expertise.com
Best Jewelry Shop
"Whether you're looking for that special Edwardian platinum ring with diamonds and sapphire filigree engagement ring or perhaps a less gaudy recycled ring using a vintage cast, Gem Set Love has been the place to go for 22 years."
Gold Rush: Make a Statement with Stacked Rings
Love from Portland Bridge & Groom's Magazine, featuring three spectacular pieces from our shop in the January 16th, 2018 magazine edition. Featured article linked here.
Interested in Learning About Jewelry Through the Eras?
MOURNING IN THE VICTORIAN PERIOD
INSTALLMENT 1 OF THE IDENTIFLY SERIES
-Paula Bixel - Proprietor
"Wearing jewelry in remembrance of our beloved dead is a tradition that originated in the 16th century, but the fashion for mourning jewelry reached its height during the reign of Queen Victoria. Victorian mourning jewelry, particularly those pieces dating to the earlier part of this era, are of special interest to lovers of antique jewelry due to its uniquely personal nature; few other styles of jewelry allow such an intimate glimpse into the past." (read the rest of the blog post here)
Private, In-Store Appointments
For Everyone's Safety:
- No other customers will be in the store.
- All jewelry throughly cleaned after each appointment.
- Masks required, one can be provided.
- Bring photo ID to show at the door.
Email appointments@gemsetlove.com to reserve your time.