Vintage & Estate Rings

The definition can vary, but in general, we like to consider antique rings as those that are over 100 years old, while vintage typically refers to anything from 20 to 99 years old. Estate simply means the piece was previously owned, regardless of its age. Our collection is made up of a mix of estate, vintage, and antique jewelry and timepieces.

Yes, a professional appraisal from Long’s Jewelers can be helpful for determining the fair market value and is often required by insurance companies to properly cover the item.

Always check the item's state of repair. While some wear is expected, you should ensure that the stones are secure and ask if any parts of the ring have been restored. Our team of estate buyers and on-site jewelers at Long’s inspect every vintage ring we receive thoroughly, ensuring all vintage rings in our collection are restored and ready to wear.

Highly sought-after periods include the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco eras, each featuring distinct design motifs and metalwork. Our Vintage & Estate Ring Collection features styles across all historical periods. If there is a specific era you’re interested in, our team would be happy to help guide you to the right selection.

Vintage diamonds were cut by hand, resulting in imperfect symmetry. They typically feature taller crowns, smaller tables, visible culets, and a broader sparkle.

Look for established jewelers like Long’s Jewelers in and around Boston who have a strong community presence, transparent transaction processes, and positive online reviews to ensure authenticity. Consider a jeweler who is willing to stand behind your purchase and ensure a lifetime of satisfaction and enjoyment. 

Yes, scarcity is one of the most important factors. A highly rare piece can still hold significant value even if it is in fair rather than mint condition.

Many vintage rings can be resized by a skilled jeweler. However, heavily worn bands or delicate settings may require special care during the resizing process. In general, whether or not a ring can be resized also depends on the current size of the ring versus the desired size. Most rings cannot be dramatically changed, but going up or down by half a size may be possible. At Long’s Jewelers, we have a team of skilled estate buyers and on-site jewelers who can help make this determination.