We use the term pre-loved to describe all of the rings we sell, but when we are able to date an item may call it vintage or antique.

In general, the main difference between these words is the age of the item.

Within the jewellery industry there isn’t a set standard for classifying an item as vintage or antique. However, where it is possible to date an item, then commonly it would be classified as vintage if produced from around 40 years ago, or antique if produced from 100 years ago!

So if you see us use one of these words then this is what we mean:

Pre-loved: an item we aren't able to date or produced post 1990

Vintage: an item we are able to date produced between 1920-1990

Antique: an item we are able to date produced pre-1920

There are many factors that can determine how a ring is priced. The biggest are:

• The material

All of the rings we sell are made from solid gold, no base metals or plating. Solid gold ranges in purity, most commonly from 9-18 carat (ct). 18ct gold is more pure and therefore more expensive.

You can read more about different types of gold in the blog post below.

• The size, quality and type of gemstone

A larger, better quality and rarer gemstone ring will cost more than a smaller, lower quality gemstone ring.

See our blog post below on different types of gemstones!

• The age and condition of the ring

In general, an older ring in good condition will be more expensive than a more modern ring due to its rarity, craftsmanship and historical significance.

On the other hand, the older the ring the greater the chance or slight flaws or signs of wear, which can also influence the price. We will always make it clear through pictures and descriptions what the condition of the ring is.

• Trends and popularity

Like with anything, certain styles or stones may be more or less popular at different times. For example, emeralds are having a bit of a moment!

There's no single reason and it's completely up to your taste, style and budget.

BUT a few of the reasons why I adore pre-loved items are:

A New Lease of Life

I think about how these beautiful items were once cherished by someone else, and love the idea of being able to continue that story.

Sustainability & Eco-Consciousness

Pre-loved jewellery keeps existing metals and gemstones in circulation, reducing the demand for new mining.

Exceptional Value

Because you’re purchasing an existing piece rather than paying for fresh manufacturing and branding costs, you’ll often pay less per gram of gold or carat of gemstone. That means you get more bang for your buck than with new jewellery.

Unique Style & Character

Every pre-loved ring carries its own history, whether that’s subtle patina, tiny engraving details, or even design flourishes - that aren’t found in today’s commercialised mass-market lines. You’ll stand out and I guarantee will be asked about it or receive compliments instead of “My friend has that from *insert name of known jewellery brand*!”.

Proven Durability

These rings have already endured years or even decades of wear. Their continued integrity is a testament to their lasting quality. You can buy with confidence that the piece will wear beautifully for many more years.

Investment Potential

Solid gold and older mined gemstones hold intrinsic value. While plated and vermeil rings lose their worth as soon as they’re worn, a solid-gold ring retains, and sometimes even appreciates, over time.

Each ring is measured using the standard UK ring sizing scale (D-Z).

I use the below standard sizing to try and help you understand what this means.

Please bear in mind that this is not an official measurement and more an indication of what finger a ring might fit on based on my own hands, from pinky (extra small) to index (large).

D-I: Extra Small

J-L: Small

M-P: Medium

Q-U: Large

U+: Extra Large

We do not offer ring resizing, but most can be resized once purchased if you take them to a jewellers. It tends to be easier to make a ring smaller than bigger. The cost to resize averages around £50, but this can vary depending on the type of gold and how big of a change in size you want to make.