Estate Rings

When shopping for an engagement ring, some couples wonder if they should buy a pre-owned engagement ring. This article reviews the reasons that estate rings are a wonderful option for the conscious shopper who’s concerned about the ethics of purchasing a new, mined diamond.

What is an Estate Ring?

Let’s start by defining the term “estate ring.” Simply, estate jewelry is pre-owned jewelry (but “estate” sounds fancier, right?). There is no specific age attached to estate jewelry. If it’s pre-owned and being resold, it’s considered an estate piece. You might also see the terms “vintage” and “antique” when looking at pre-owned rings. Technically, a vintage ring is at least 50 years old, and an antique ring is over 100 years old, but both would be estate pieces. There is no singular reason why a piece of jewelry ends up on the resale market. It’s possible the previous owner passed away without an hier. It’s possible the original owner “upgraded” and sold their older set. And, of course, it’s possible the sale is the result of a breakup.

Should I Buy a Pre-Owned Engagement Ring?

Only you know if you are comfortable with the idea of purchasing an estate diamond. Typically, you won’t know the story behind the ring. Some buyers are uncomfortable with the idea of owning a ring that may or may not have been part of a breakup. Personally, I chose an estate diamond ring when my now-husband and I were ring shopping. I was not concerned about owning something that someone else wore, even though I don’t know the story of my ring. My husband and I are writing our own story and putting our own love and energy into the ring we picked. I chose my ring because, to be frank, I could get a larger stone for much, much less money. My estate ring is also without any of the environmental or human rights concerns that surround mined diamonds. It seemed like a win-win for me.

Things to Consider When Buying a Pre-owned Diamond Ring

There are an incredible amount of pre-owned diamond rings on the market. You can find them for sale on eBay, Etsy, at pawn shops, antique stores, jewelers, and specialty sites dedicated to selling pre-loved jewelry. Of course, it’s important to do your due diligence when shopping for a used ring. Ensure you are shopping legit sites with buyer protections in place. If shopping on a marketplace site like eBay, use your discretion when reviewing the sellers. Make sure they are well-reviewed and reliable (I personally suggest The Wilson Brothers, although there are many other phenomenal eBay sellers). Don’t be afraid to contact the seller to ask more questions about the ring — a legitimate, trustworthy seller is always happy to oblige. If you do purchase a pre-owned diamond online (I’ve purchased many this way!), you should take it to a jeweler once you receive it. The jeweler will inspect the ring, check that the prongs are solid, and confirm for you that the stone is real. It’s also worth mentioning that you can purchase an estate ring (or a loose pre-owned diamond) and work with a jeweler to set the stone in the new setting of your dreams.

Making the Decision to Buy an Estate Diamond

If price and ethics are both considerations for you, I highly suggest you rule pre-owned rings into your hunt. Not only can you get more rock for your dollar, you are making the most environmentally sound choice of all. There are no new materials needed — just a trip on the FedEx truck. As the saying goes, diamonds are forever. If you value owning a natural diamond but you have valid concerns about the ethics of buying new, pre-owned could be the perfect compromise for your forever ring.