Signet rings are one of the oldest and most highly valued status symbols, but they are no longer just the preserve of kings and chiefs. Here at Liam Ross, we can create a bespoke version for you that reflects your own status or heritage that you can treasure just as much.
It is safe to say that signet rings have a very long history indeed. The first examples were used in Mesopotamia around 3,500 BC, with these being used to create seals that could be imprinted in clay and denote authority.
They were very hard to forge, which made them ideal for those who did not want their authority or decision-making to be compromised.
This was such a good idea that they went on being used by multiple civilisations:
- They were used by the ancient Egyptians and Romans, with the latter reserving them for high-status people
- In medieval Europe, they were used by individual noble families, with each having an insignia, similar to a coat of arms
- They became more ornate and less functional during the Renaissance period
- When the Industrial Revolution arrived, mass production became possible
Are Signet Rings Still Used Today?
This historical progression may make it seem like signet rings have gradually lost their significance, having once been the preserve of rulers and others in high authority, while now anyone can have one.
To an extent, this is true, but signet rings still retain a great significance. For instance, King Charles wears a signet ring and has done so for decades, well before he ascended to the throne at the end of his mother’s 70-year reign.
For so many of our customers, however, the tradition they will follow is that of the medieval families. Of course, you don’t have to be categorised as noble to have one of these beautiful rings, but they do still carry much significance, as well as serious style.
To see what we can achieve with bespoke signet ring design, complete with its own wax seal and presentational box, watch this video featuring a striking example, complete with family crest or emblem:
This is just one of the options for a signet ring that we can make. We’ll work closely with you to discuss your ideas and help you bring them to life, whether your design comes from an existing family coat or arms or other symbol, or you’d like something created from scratch.
How Do We Work With Clients To Design Signet Rings?
Indeed, some of our most creative work is highly original, achieved through working closely with our clients in the creative process. If you don’t have a family coat of arms or insignia, we can even help you to develop one.
On the other hand, if you have had a family coat of arms or other symbols, but this has fallen out of use, the project may involve the exciting task of revival!
Having decided to get a signet ring and then come to us with your ideas, we can get to work on this design and then carry out the work itself.
What Traditional Techniques Are Used In Crafting Signet Rings?
The practice of making these rings involves traditional hand-crafting techniques that date back a very long way.
Although we use modern equipment, such as microscopes that enable work to be done with great precision, we also utilise many traditional tools. Some of them are literally antiques!
A great benefit of having such tools is that our goldsmiths are trained in the traditional methods of jewellery-making. Although some modern aids can enhance the techniques, it is by using older tools for older skills that the most authentic pieces can be crafted.
This has the great advantage of making 21st-century signet rings look every bit as traditional as their equivalents made long ago, providing each wearer with something that looks great today but will stand the test of time, which will enable it to become the ideal family heirloom.
What that also means is that the techniques we use are not experimental, but tried and tested, so you can have great faith that your new signet ring has a genuine sense of authenticity, every bit as much as the rings your ancestors might have worn.
How Are Gems Incorporated Into Signet Rings?
As well as ornate engravings that can carry symbols, crests and other insignia, your ring may also have gemstones included.
Unlike a traditional ring in which the stone is the centrepiece and the ring is built around it, a signet ring retains its shape with the traditional wide, largely flat surface on top. A stone (or stones) can then be embedded into it.
However, ensuring this complements the design rather than dominating it is a delicate balancing act. This is a key element of the traditional skills that we can bring to this situation, which is made possible by the fact that gemstones have long been included in signet rings.
In one regard, signet rings have a very traditional style that has been maintained for millennia. In another, they are open to all kinds of variations and hold different levels of significance and meaning for their wearers.
Very few now bear seals of authority or regal power (although the one King Charles wears will do), but they can take on a different significance for each wearer, based on their family, membership of an organisation or other associations.
This wide range of meanings and potential for different symbols and engravings, not to mention the choices you have of metals and gems, makes signet rings prime candidates for bespoke designs made in traditional style.
Frequently Asked Questions About Signet Rings
What finger do you wear a signet ring on?
Traditionally, it is the little finger, but this is not mandatory.
Can a signet ring be worn as a wedding ring?
Yes, it can be used this way and you might want to have an engraving on it to signify something significant about your marriage.
What metals are signet rings made from?
They are commonly made from gold or silver. Platinum is another option.
Does the ring have to signify something like a family symbol or membership of an association?
Not necessarily. You can wear one simply because you like the style.
Which gemstones are used in signet rings?
Signet rings usually contain gemstones, and precious stones like sapphires and diamonds are commonly used now. However, semi-precious gems can also be used and these may be more traditional.