If you’ve been bequeathed a signet ring by a family member it likely has a grandparent’s initials engraved on it or has been carved with a family crest. Heirloom jewellery is one of the most personal items you can wear, all the while knowing you are treasuring it for the next generation. 

If you’re seeking your own signet ring what should you be looking for? The first consideration is, do you want to have a new ring made or would you like to find something with a bit of history behind it? 

Choosing an antique or estate ring brings together the origins of that signet ring - what metal and stones it was crafted with, where and when it was made, by which jeweller, and oftentimes with an existing crest or monogram - with what is important to you today.

Sometimes serendipity will find you an antique ring with your desired initials engraved upon the surface, which is quite a magical feeling. Alternatively, you may feel drawn to a particular crest because the image is meaningful to you, perhaps a dragon, an eagle or a crown. With a piece of jewellery you intend to wear every day, or gift to someone special, the search and the story are often the highlight. 

You will also find vintage options with a blank surface which you can leave plain or have engraved with a design of your choosing. 

Signet rings have been worn and used since ancient times, most often to seal letters and official documents by pressing the intaglio (carved design) into warm wax. Along with coats-of-arms and monograms, signet rings can be found displaying merchants’ marks, such as scissors for a tailor, and personal emblems, for example a dog, representing loyalty.

Worn by pharaohs, kings, office bearers and land owners, signet rings were an integral part of everyday business. Before literacy was widespread they were equivalent to a signature and the wax seals bearing their imprint remain intact on many historical documents to this day.

Worn today by all age groups and genders, the signet ring has moved on from its original official purposes to become a piece of jewellery which shows your pride in heritage and appreciation of quality and design. Looking for a thoughtful gift? In the words of Wesley Rutherford (Director, Rutherford Jewellery), “This year…Siân gave me a beautiful signet ring to celebrate our 37 years of marriage, a gift that will forever symbolise our story.”