Winter is a unique season, filled with reflection of times that have passed, whilst also looking ahead to a future filled with promise.
It is a time for celebrating traditions that have endured through the ages, whilst also considering what you also wish to pass down yourself, which is often a reason why gold signet rings capture the imagination so strongly.
Right now, signet rings are not only an enduring symbol of heritage but are also at the forefront of jewellery trends. It has become the ultimate expression of your history, your style and your personality, even if its primary purpose is less of a necessity for many people today.
There are a lot of ways to design and wear a signet ring, and the only rule is that it should look and feel right to you, but here are some top tips and facts to know about the unique wearable seals and how they have been made in the past.
How Are Signet Rings Traditionally Worn?
Whilst mostly a stylistic choice, signet rings used to be not only a symbol of identity, class and status, but also an important identifying mark in an age where not everyone could write a signature.
Whilst not the first signet rings, the Roman intaglio was a symbol of identity, and wearing one often denoted that you either had authority or you were working under the authority of the person whose seal ring you were wearing.
This is also where the tradition of wearing the seal ring on the little finger began, initially as a practical consideration to ensure that the movement of the hand was not affected by a relatively heavy, bulky ring.
Can You Wear A Signet Ring On A Ring Finger?
Whilst the tradition is to wear the signet ring on the little finger, it can be worn on any finger you choose. Some Victorian era signet rings were so bulky that they were often treated as an accessory similar to a fob watch.
As such, a signet ring can be worn on a ring finger if you prefer, but one curious quirk to bear in mind is that many signet rings are designed around little finger sizes, so you should be careful to ensure you do not buy a ring that is too small for your finger.
The golden rule with sizes is that it should feel snug but not too tight. It should feel like it will stay on your finger, but it is easy enough to take off if you need to.
What Signet Ring Shapes Are Available?
The most important decision to make when it comes to your signet ring is your shape. It will determine the surface you have for your seal, crest or carving.
These are the three most common shapes that we offer, but if you have particular needs, we offer a bespoke jewellery service that can create a ring shape that meets your needs.
Oval
Also known as the Oxford oval, the classic oval is a jack-of-all-trades design that allows for a wide range of designs to be engraved onto it, and also tends to complement other jewellery much more easily.
Cushion
If you need a little more space for your design, the wider, rounded square cushion shape is a striking, bold shape that has become increasingly popular when signet rings make a statement of their own rather than act as a signature.
Heart
A very unique and personal shape that we love, heart-shaped designs are based around romance and intimacy, often featuring carvings that tell the story of a very personal relationship.
How To Choose A Signet Ring Head Size
Aside from the shape, the size of the signet ring head is a key decision to make, and the answer depends on the size of the statement you want to make.
Should You Choose A Larger Signet Ring?
In general, if you are wearing the signet ring on a finger other than the pinky, it is better to choose a larger head. This gives you more room for a detailed crest and tends to look more balanced on the finger.
When Should You Choose A Smaller Signet Ring?
If you have relatively small or slender fingers, a smaller signet ring can look more appropriate and contemporary, particularly if paired with other narrow-band jewellery.
How To Get The Perfect Bespoke Signet Ring
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Contact us with your needs and book an appointment with us.
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Get a personalised ring sizing.
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Wait for our expert jewellers to provide pictures and three-dimensional models of your bespoke design.
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View a 3D wax model and choose stones to place.
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Pay your deposit and wait for the ring to be produced.