Shopping for a vintage gold signet ring?Traditionally considered a ring for men, a 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 gold is the feel-good metal, the serotonin of jewelry. Any discussion of 18-karat gold signet rings, 22-karat gold signet rings or this lustrous metal in general comes down to a basic truth: Gold is elementary, my dear. Gold jewelry that couples the mystique of the metal with superb design and craftsmanship achieves the status of an enduring classic.
Indeed, it isn't all about men's signet rings anymore — the trending accessory is for everyone. Princess Diana wore a signet ring that was a gift from Charles before their wedding, for example, and we all know that the royals are top-tier fashion influencers, especially when it comes to rings.
Find antique and vintage gold signet rings for sale on 1stDibs.