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Step 1
As you begin your design, go to antique shows or look through books on vintage jewelry to get an idea of what the styles were. Places like Ebay.com and estate sales should have some good examples of various time periods.
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Step 2
Investigate common motifs from the time period you're interested in. For example, the art deco period of the 1940s featured squarish settings and a mix of diamonds and other precious or semi-precious stones like emeralds and rubies. Take a look at many periods before you decide on a style or era.
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Step 3
Use authentic materials. White gold and yellow gold as well as platinum were used for many decades and the very finest metals were used for wedding sets. Many antique rings will feature filigree and ornately carved design in the band instead of oversized diamonds, so incorporate some traditional filigree into your ring.
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Step 4
Draw out your design. Take all your clippings and images and lay out some of your favorite features. Pick out a diamond shape and a colored accent stone. Draw out a rectangle to represent your band--as if it were sliced and straightened--and draw out the placement of your stones and filigree. Play around with the design until you are satisfied.
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Step 5
Create the woman's ring first, then use aspects of the design in the man's ring. Mirror filigree pattern in a light design on a solid band for the man's wedding band. Simple and clean is key to getting that retro look.
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Step 6
Talk to your jeweler. Bring your designs to your jeweler or goldsmith and discuss your ideas with her. Allow her to do a revised drawing of your ideas and/or a wax carving and review before giving the go-ahead. Bring any diamonds or stones that you have that you want to use to the consultation.
