Optima Est Veritas
Antique Late 19th Century British Signet Rings
Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
People Also Browsed
21st Century and Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Diamond, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Stud Earrings
Diamond, White Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Engagement Rings
Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, Diamond, Platinum
Vintage 1980s Italian Etruscan Revival Cocktail Rings
Carnelian, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Antique Late 19th Century Signet Rings
Garnet, 18k Gold
Antique 1870s Victorian Signet Rings
Carnelian, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 20th Century American Contemporary Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Engagement Rings
Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, White Diamond, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Signet Rings
Agate, 18k Gold
Antique Early 19th Century British Georgian Chandelier Earrings
Diamond, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver, 18k Gold
Antique 1870s French Signet Rings
Brass
Vintage 1920s Swedish Medieval Signet Rings
Carnelian, 18k Gold
Antique Late 19th Century European Arts and Crafts Signet Rings
Quartz, 14k Gold
Antique 15th Century and Earlier Italian Classical Roman Signet Rings
Lapis Lazuli
Antique 1880s Victorian Signet Rings
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s French Art Deco Engagement Rings
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
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.
Read More
Our Guide to Engagement Ring Settings – And How to Choose One
There are many ways to showcase a diamond, from traditional prongs to a smooth, streamlined bezel. Here’s everything you need to consider.
Nothing Says Summer Heat Like This Ruby-Red Cartier Stunner
The vintage bombé ring is bursting with color and timeless style.
Zircon Rings: Our Guide to a Uniquely Colorful Natural Gemstone
Zircon is a magnificent and underrated natural gemstone that has been worn and adored for centuries.
[Survey] Two-Thirds of Jewelry Gift Recipients Don’t Want to Be Surprised
Givers of fine gems enjoy surprise more than receivers, and women more than men. Find out what else our survey of 3,000 Americans revealed.
Colorful Gemstones Are a Brilliant Choice for Engagement Rings
If diamonds don’t seem right, what about a magnificent sapphire, ruby or emerald?
Our Guide to Fancy-Colored Diamond Engagement Rings
Accounting for just 1 percent of all diamonds, these marvels of nature are exceedingly rare and gorgeously complex.
Our Guide to Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco Engagement Rings
Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.
Talking Diamonds with the Jeweler Behind J. Lo’s Engagement Ring
Alon Ruschin, of Vivid Diamonds & Jewelry, channels his passion for gems into helping clients find just the right ring.