18 Karat Armorial
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Antique 1890s Unknown Late Victorian Signet Rings
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Modern Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Modern Signet Rings
Yellow Gold, Gold, 18k Gold
2010s French Modern Signet Rings
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
2010s French Modern Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Modern Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 19th Century French Napoleon III Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Modern Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Modern Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1950s American Signet Rings
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 19th Century English Victorian Signet Rings
Carnelian, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Yes, there is such a thing as 18-karat. The term describes metal that is 75 percent pure gold, with the remaining 25 percent being an alloy like aluminum, copper, nickel, iron or zinc. On 1stDibs, find a variety of gold jewelry and decorative objects.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry is 18-karat gold, not 14-karat. The luxury jewelry designer makes necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings and cufflinks in 18-karat white, gold and rose gold. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023Whether 14-karat or 18-karat white gold is better for a wedding band depends largely on your preferences. If you like the look of white gold with a warmer tone, you may wish to opt for 18-karat gold because it often appears yellower due to its higher gold content. On the other hand, 14-karat white gold wedding bands tend to be durable, making them a good option for people most concerned with keeping their rings scratch-free. Find an assortment of white gold wedding bands on 1stDibs.
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