Passionate fandoms for popular historical and fantasy fiction television shows, such as Rome, The Borgias and Game of Thrones, have thrust signet rings back into the spotlight. These carved symbol jewelry pieces are gorgeous, and often incredibly highly detailed, with fascinating histories that reach back into the beginning of the civilized world. In modern times, you may wear them to pay homage to a favorite time period in history, a beloved TV series or an honored family crest. Signet rings, it seems, are back and bigger than ever.
14k Tricolor Gold and Diamond Signet Ring
A Brief History
Way, way back in the Mesopotamian era, signet rings symbolized the names of powerful and important people. They were pressed into ink or wax to seal official documents in a rather artful and distinctive manner. They were worn on fingers or around the neck, and many featured intricate designs. In the late Bronze period these seals became a major art form, collected by kings and emperors. And they weren’t just found in the west, the Qin Dynasty in China had their own version, and the Tang Dynasty utilized bright red ink from cinnabar for their seals. Signet rings began falling out of favor when rubber stamps and embossed seals became popular. But, their beauty now transcends their original purpose.
David Yurman Sterling Silver Pave Diamond Wide Signet Ring
Modern Styles
If you currently own or desire a signet ring, there are a few things to note about the difference between original designs and ones created as jewelry. Authentic rings sport a reverse or mirror image of the design, so that it reads correctly when stamped. This makes it utilitarian, certainly, but not nearly as attractive as modern rings, which keep the design face up for viewing. If you actually plan on stamping wax with your ring, it’s best to hunt for an antique, or even have one custom made.
10k White Gold Cognac/White Diamond Signet Ring
Whether you prefer a personalized house sigil (so you can give the Lannisters a run for their considerable amounts of money) or a more generic coat of arms seal, signet rings are fun, beautiful and flattering. Feel powerful and playful all at once, with a signet ring of your choosing.
