Abraxas Ring
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold, Silver
Recent Sales
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Agate, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
18k Gold, Silver
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Jasper, 18k Gold, Silver
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
People Also Browsed
Late 20th Century American Modern Signet Rings
Lapis Lazuli, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Early 20th Century French Belle Époque More Jewelry
Diamond, Platinum
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Afghan Classical Roman Dome Rings
Agate, Gold, 18k Gold
Antique Early 1900s Art Nouveau Cocktail Rings
Diamond, Moonstone, 14k Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Silver
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Jasper, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Lapis Lazuli, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Early 19th Century Italian Neoclassical Fashion Rings
Agate, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Agate, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Carnelian, Gold, 18k Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Carnelian, Gold, 22k Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Band Rings
Carnelian, 22k Gold
Antique Late 19th Century English Signet Rings
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Early 1900s American Art Nouveau Signet Rings
Emerald, 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.