Lucky Persimmons Ring
2010s British Signet Rings
Sapphire, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
People Also Browsed
Vintage 1970s Italian Drop Necklaces
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Antique 1880s English Victorian Cocktail Rings
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Gold, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Vintage 1970s Engagement Rings
Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1920s British Victorian Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Signet Rings
Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1980s American Evening Gowns
2010s Classical Greek Signet Rings
Carnelian, Gold
Antique 16th Century European Renaissance Signet Rings
Agate, Gold, Enamel
2010s American Empire Fashion Rings
Diamond, 18k Gold
2010s British Modern Signet Rings
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s British Modern Signet Rings
Diamond, Yellow Gold
2010s European Modern Signet Rings
Diamond, Yellow Gold
2010s British Modern Solitaire Rings
14k Gold
2010s European Signet Rings
Diamond, Yellow Gold
2010s European Artisan Signet Rings
Ruby, Blue Topaz, Yellow Gold
2010s Signet Rings
Ruby, 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.