Optima Est Veritas
Antique Late 19th Century British Signet Rings
Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
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21st Century and Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Diamond, 18k Gold
Antique 1870s French Signet Rings
Brass
Vintage 1950s American Modernist Brooches
Diamond, Tourmaline, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1980s Italian Etruscan Revival Cocktail Rings
Carnelian, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Stud Earrings
Diamond, White Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
Late 20th Century American Contemporary Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Late 19th Century Signet Rings
Garnet, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Engagement Rings
Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, White Diamond, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Antique 1870s Victorian Signet Rings
Carnelian, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Lapis Lazuli
Vintage 1920s Swedish Medieval Signet Rings
Carnelian, 18k Gold
Antique Early 19th Century British Georgian Chandelier Earrings
Diamond, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver, 18k Gold
Antique 1880s Victorian Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Engagement Rings
Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, Diamond, Platinum
2010s French Art Deco Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
2010s American Modern Cocktail Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold
Finding the Right signet-rings for You
Traditionally considered a ring for men, a vintage signet ring is a popular gift today for anyone who desires an expressive, timeless piece of jewelry that can feature all manner of engraved motifs, gemstones, specific symbols or monograms.
Whether it's an antique gold signet ring, diamond signet ring or some other classic iteration, signet rings get their name from signus, which means “sign” in Latin.
These rings, which may historically be referred to as “seal rings,” date back thousands of years and were used as a form of signature. Whatever may have been engraved on the ring — a married couple’s initials, a family crest — identified ownership for the purposes of authenticating documents and more when impressed on soft wax. During the Middle Ages, signet rings were symbols of power and prestige and common accessories for nobility. Later, during the 19th century, precious and semiprecious stones such as rubies and diamonds were added to gold signet rings as they took on a more ornate appearance than they had previously.
In recent years, fashion has been primarily about individuality, and nothing is more personal than a jewel bearing a name or monogram. That is the reason jewelers have revived traditional signet rings, custom-engraving their designs with customers’ preferred words or symbols. Those who prefer the thrill of the hunt have a range of vintage letter charms and pendants to sift through.
And it isn't all about men's signet rings anymore, either — the accessory is for everyone. Princess Diana wore a signet ring that was a gift from Charles before their wedding, and we all know that the royals are top-tier fashion influencers, especially when it comes to rings.
Find vintage diamond signet rings, onyx signet rings and other types of rings on 1stDibs.
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