The prototype of the signet ring appeared more than 4,000 years ago in Ancient Egypt, when the Sumerians used cylindrical seals for signing contracts and fire-painted seals. Since then, seals have been considered proof of personal identity and a symbol of power. Therefore, putting a seal on a ring is not only convenient to carry, but also represents the supreme power of the person who wears it, and was even regarded as a token for the transmission of the throne in ancient Egypt. Into the modern world, the signet ring has gone beyond the traditional symbolism and become a more personalised way of expression, more and more people are beginning to pay attention to the coordination of clothes and accessories with the signet ring because of its unique craftsmanship and design has become the best choice to show personal style. Next, we will introduce some common styles and characteristics of signet rings as well as the precautions for wearing them.
signet ring Shapes
Oval
The most traditional shape for a signet ring is the oval, which is one of the reasons why it has always been favoured. Unlike other styles of signet rings, the oval shape is more elongated, providing more surface area for personalised, detailed and intricate engraving.
Round
Round signet rings originated in the ancient Mesopotamian empire some 3,500 years ago, when the empire’s territory also included parts of what is now Iran, Syria, Kuwait and Turkey. Round rings are engraved in yellow, white gold or silver, a shape that gives beauty of symmetry and balance, making them perfect for monogramming to express personalisation.
Cushion Shape
Often made of precious metals and elaborately set with gemstones such as garnet, onyx, and carnelian, cushion-shaped rings originated during the Greek and Roman periods. Cushion signet rings have a distinctive rectangular or square shape with rounded corners, much like a cushion or pillow. The design usually has a flat or slightly raised surface in order to allow enough room for engraving intricate symbols, patterns and initials.
Square
A perfect blend between tradition and modernity, the square signet ring features a distinctive square surface that gives it a unique and contemporary aesthetic. With a flat top, the square seal allows plenty of room for your engraved symbols, initials, family crest or personalised design.
Engraving Patterns for signet rings
Family Coat of Arms
If you don’t have a family coat of arms, designing and engraving one yourself is a very rewarding endeavour. This is because creating your own family coat of arms will preserve your family’s traditions, values, and history and pass them on to future generations. You are free to incorporate colours, symbols and patterns that you find meaningful into your design, or you can work together with other members of your family to create a design. When carving, you can choose a stereo microscope to magnify the carving area, which not only makes it easier to see, but also maximises the precision of the carving, and ultimately results in the carving design you want.
Initials
The earliest intertwined monograms of multiple letters were the royal signatures engraved on ancient Greek coins. Nowadays, combining initials into a personalised monogram and engraving it on a signet ring is also a popular option. You can also have the initials combined in an embossed design, which creates a raised design on the surface of the ring that is striking and has a more minimalist aesthetic.
Quotations
Many people take a quote from a writer or artist, or a philosophical quote from a book or a song lyric as their credo for life, a source of comfort in times of disappointment and a source of motivation in times of difficulty. It’s also a great idea to have these quotes engraved on a signet ring, as a personalised statement and a constant source of inspiration and strength.
Coordinates
Using coordinates as an engraving for a signet ring is a highly personalised option, which adds an element of adventure and fun to the ring. You can choose a set of coordinates of a location that is important to you, such as your hometown, a favourite holiday destination, your alma mater or the location of another memorable life event. This way, whenever you look at the signet ring, it’s like you’re gazing at a private map leading to your memorable location.
Things to consider when wearing a signet ring
Because the signet ring itself is usually quite large and hard to ignore no matter which finger you wear it on, it is recommended that you wear just one, otherwise it will be too cumbersome.
Wearing a signet ring on the pinky is often seen as the most personalised option, but you can of course choose as much as you like.
In Summary
The origins of the different shapes of signet rings are influenced by various cultures and regions as well as contemporary fashion trends. The shape or engraving of the signet ring you choose depends on personal preference. But whether as a symbol of family heritage or as an accessory to show off one’s taste, the signet ring is a unique and historic piece of jewellery.