Victorian engagement rings are ones which were created in the time of Queen Victoria of England.

Recently there have been a number of celebrities spotted wearing Victorian engagement rings. One of the most popular types of engagement rings of this period is the ‘You And Me’ ring, which was a French-styled ring of great popularity in the 1800s. These rings have a pair of oppositely-set stones, with each one symbolizing one person of the couple. The twin stones may also be surrounded by other stones, and the pair may match or can be different. Often, one or both of the stones are diamonds.

One other ring that was highly popular in Victorian days was the ‘regards’ ring. The stones ruby, emerald, garnet, amethyst, ruby, diamond and sapphire were used in these rings. Taking the first letter from the names of each of the stones gave the word REGARDS. Stones were sometimes used to make the initials or name of the person who gave the ring.

A different type of ring used the stones lapis lazuli, opal, vermarine and emerald to spell the word LOVE.

The ‘dearest’ ring was another type of popular ring. Diamond, emerald, amethyst, ruby, emerald, sapphire and topaz were all combined in a ring to make up the word DEAREST.

The serpent or snake ring was also very popular as an engagement ring in Victorian times. It had a pair of serpents which were entwined symbolizing bride and groom, and may be set with gemstones. Even Queen Victoria wore one of these rings after her engagement to Prince Albert.

3-stone engagement rings were also really popular in the Victorian era. They often had pearls and diamonds, hearts entwined and several other shapes.

The engagement rings of Victorian times usually were made from yellow gold or rose gold, with occasional use of silver or platinum.

Many Victorian traditions relating to engagement no longer exist. One tradition was that the man would ask his young lady’s father for permission for them to marry. If his request was successful, a special dinner would be given.

Diamonds and gold were in quite short supply in Victorian times, so ring makers had to develop ways to make the materials go further. They used thin sheets or plates of gold, and pierced or filigree design work on the rings made the rings look more substantial while not using a large amount of gold.

Sarah Carter is the owner of a website on period engagement rings and Victorian engagement rings. Visit her site now to see more.