So, what exactly is Art Deco? It’s a style of design that was popular in the Roaring 20s, characterized by geometric shapes and highly-stylized motifs such as animals and flowers. The lines and shapes of Art Deco influenced the design of everything from architecture (such as the Chrysler Building in New York City) and automobiles to clothing and jewelry.

Art Deco originated in France and gained favor after the 1925 World’s Fair, held in Paris, when examples of this style were on display for many to see. The name “Art Deco” is a shortened form of the name of the event that showcased this style—the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes (the International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts)—and this term has come to embody the decorative, geometric designs of this style.

Art Deco jewelry often featured intricate geometric patterns, as demonstrated by the Vintage Art Deco Emerald Ring. The sweeping lines that point to this ring’s gemstone create an architectural look that gives evidence to the fact that it was constructed with great care. A 4mm round emerald and two smaller diamonds are upheld by these lines of 14K white gold, serving as vibrant accents to a motif that’s full of movement.

Modern gems can provide a lovely complement to Art Deco styles. The stone featured in the Roman Art Deco Tanzanite and Diamond Ring wasn’t discovered until approximately a half a century after the Art Deco period, but this 6mm round tanzanite works perfectly with the modern personality of this ring, adding a pop of cornflower blue sparkle to a classy vintage setting.

Any Art Deco-inspired ring could serve as a unique and stunning engagement ring. Whether you choose a piece with a brightly-colored gemstone or a vintage diamond ring, Art Deco styles readily communicate that your love is able to withstand the test of time.

If you’d prefer a diamond style, consider the 1/4 Carat Art Deco Diamond Ring in 14K White Gold. This one-of-a-kind piece is an excellent example of the stylized flowers that were often seen in Art Deco designs: a shining lotus blossom opens its petals to reveal a dazzling ¼ carat round diamond. This flower is contrasted by the intricately carved leaf and swirl motif that accents the band. It’s a look that’s full of life, despite the fact that it’s inspired by a design that’s nearly a century old.

While Art Deco faded during the Great Depression, it was never forgotten. Today, it’s back in a big way, and antique-style rings that feature the designs of this period are timeless pieces of class and beauty.

These rings originate in a simpler time—a time before cell phones, the internet and instant everything, when life moved at a markedly slower pace. By slipping one of them on your finger, you bring to mind a less complicated era when beauty and romance were celebrated and savored.

Apples of Gold’s collection of vintage gemstone rings features a range of stone, from jewelry classics like emerald and amethyst to unique gems such as pink topaz. Each one gives these time-honored styles a new personality, providing a number of modern interpretations for today’s women.

The Vintage Emerald-Cut Amethyst Ring in 14K White Gold places a stunning emerald-cut amethyst, 10mm high, on display like a piece of fine art in an exquisite frame. However, unlike the pieces that line museum walls, this piece showcases its beauty wherever you go. A sizeable, glimmering violet stone gives a regal personality to this ring; however, that’ not all there is to admire about this piece. An elegant filigree setting surrounds this Victorian-style ring, making clear the level of craftsmanship that was poured into creating it.

Fans of 1920s-inspired style also have a number of head-turning bridal pieces to choose from. For example, the Vintage Floral Aquamarine Ring in 14K White Gold places a cool, glimmering aquamarine, over a half carat in weight, in the spotlight. A lavishly carved floral motif adorns the band, giving this piece a look that’s extraordinarily beautiful.

In addition to their ability to make statement of style and good taste, vintage gemstone rings can also communicate lasting love. Gemstone engagement rings inspired by the past readily serve as symbols of love that stands the test of time. Celebrities including Carrie Underwood and Emily Blunt wear vintage styles on their left hands, demonstrating that these rings can serve as incredibly glamorous symbols of lasting affection.

For example, the Enchanted Garnet Ring in 14K White Gold seems to have been plucked from the pages of a fairy tale. A round garnet adds a burst of rich crimson glimmer, and gives this ring a timeless appeal. Victorian-inspired filigree creates an airy yet substantial setting that’s rich with lively swirls. While this ring is a striking fashion statement on its own, it also readily symbolizes love when it takes on the role of a unique engagement ring. Or, if you’d prefer a perfectly coordinated wedding jewelry set, this ring is also available as part of the Garnet Bridal Wedding Ring Set in 14K White Gold.

Whether you’re looking for a ring that’s on trend for your right hand or a unique engagement ring, vintage gemstone rings deliver. Each of these pieces provides a touch of the past that’s welcome in the present.