Where should I look for an antique engagement ring?

I’m beginning the search of looking for an engagement ring and I’m wondering where do I find a vintage antique engagement ring? I know most of the times these things are passed down in families but I’m not sure if one of my grandmothers or great grandmothers (I still have three that are still alive believe it or not) still have their engagement rings and are willing to pass it down. I will definitely be looking into this soon.

Anyways, I want to get my girlfriend a ring that has a story and a soul. She currently has a promise ring that I purchased from Macy’s when I was a freshman in college for $500 that is diamond and has filigree. She constantly reminds me of how its her most cherished possession. I know if I got her a vintage antique engagement ring she would love it forever.

In a couple of weeks, we will be visiting a couple of antique stores in Madison, GA (fifty bucks to anyone who knows the significance of this special town in GA) because I want her to check out some rings so I can get a general idea of what she likes. Plus my parents will be tagging along and we’re going to start warming them up to the idea that we’ll be getting engaged in the near future.

Any ideas? Antique stores? Antique Road Show? Antique auctions? Should I ask for “papers” to make sure its legit and not made in China a couple of months ago and to insure the authenticity of the diamond?

Thanks for all of the advice guys!