Aug
The Golden Age of Capitalism, or the 1950s era, showcased a period of economic prosperity in the U.S. following World War II. The scarcity and gloom of the 1940s were replaced by lower taxes and increased purchasing power in the 1950s. This optimism was also mirrored in the fashion and jewelry styles of the decade. Unique textiles like nylon, polyester, and acrylic were brought into the fashion world by World War II.
Jewelry Moments of the 1950s
Post-World War II, the U.S. was recovering from the trauma of the war and the scarcity of products like metals for jewelry. By the 1950s, metals such as platinum were no longer scarce, leading to their increased use in engagement rings. Both platinum and white gold became popular choices for engagement rings because diamonds reflect better in white metals than yellow gold. Along with metal, there was greater access to diamonds, making them a common feature in engagement rings of the 1950s.
1950s engagement rings are often identified by their style details. You’ll frequently see braid details on the setting, resembling a braid, rope, or woven metal. This era saw more access to diamonds, resulting in engagement rings with larger center stones. A popular design from this period included a larger center diamond flanked by accent diamonds on either side, either symmetrical smaller diamonds or baguettes. This classic look remains popular today. Common center stone cuts included round, emerald, marquise, and Asscher.
Engagement rings from the 1950s also featured stylistic elements like engravings or braid details in the setting, with increasingly larger stones. One quintessential 50s style was a large center diamond surrounded by symmetrical smaller diamonds or baguettes on either side. Popular cuts for the center stones included round, Asscher, emerald, and marquise. The diamond’s cut is crucial as it allows it to reflect light beautifully.
1950s Style Engagement Rings
For those who adore vintage engagement rings, check out our top picks that exude a 1950’s feel.
Cushion Twisted Vine Halo Engagement Ring
This 1950s-inspired vintage setting features a distinctive twisting diamond braid that ascends the band to the center cushion-cut halo diamond. You can choose your preferred metal (platinum or 14K or 18K yellow, white, or rose gold) and the size of your center stone.
Three Stone Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring
This timeless three-stone diamond setting features 0.12-carats of accenting baguette side stones. The baguette details lend a vintage aura to the setting. Choose your favorite metal (platinum or 14K or 18K yellow, white, or rose gold) and a center stone ranging from 0.25 to 10 carats. If you prefer not to have an oval center stone, you can opt for a different cut (round, radiant, princess, cushion, marquise, emerald, Asscher, or pear).
Vintage Filigree Engagement Ring
This ring offers a modern twist on a 1950’s design. Merging modern and romantic aesthetics, this vintage-style beaded-filigree engagement ring features a cathedral shank that directs the eye to the exquisite kite-set center stone. Choose from round, cushion, or marquise for the center stone, available in sizes from 0.5 to 5 carats. You can also select your choice of metal (platinum or 14K or 18K yellow, white, or rose gold).
Petite French Set Diamond Engagement Ring
This elegant engagement ring design features French set diamond accents for an artistic finish. You can select a center stone ranging from 0.25 to 10 carats. If you want a different center stone other than Asscher, you can choose from round, radiant, princess, cushion, marquise, emerald, oval, or pear. French-set diamonds are small diamonds elevated by tiny prongs around the ring band, creating the appearance of a single, continuous line of sparkle.
Wrapping Up
The 1950s was a remarkable era marked by economic prosperity and post-war growth that influenced fine jewelry trends still admired today. Vintage-inspired engagement rings are still in demand due to their unique details, distinctive settings, and timeless appeal. When searching for an engagement ring, consider choosing a modern 1950s style for the vintage enthusiast in your life.
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