What Is A Signet Ring and How Much Does A Signet Ring Cost

If you are keen to show off a classic style in the jewellery that you wear, then a signet ring might be a piece worth investing in. What’s more, there’s a rather interesting history to the signet ring, even though there are now some interesting modern designs.

A signet ring is identified by its raised, flat surface, which often features an engraving.

Signet rings were traditionally worn by men and were designed to sign documents, often in a religious capacity. However, today they’re worn by women and men, making a classic statement in gold or silver.

The History Of The Signet Ring

The signet ring can be traced back to ancient Rome and Greece. Back in those days, the signet ring was seen as one of a man’s most prized possessions and was rarely worn on the finger. In fact, men would lock their signet rings in a box, bringing them out only when they needed to sign an important document.

There is a clue in the name, the signet ring; that’s right, these rings were originally intended for men to sign their names during a time when not everyone was literate. However, back then, only those in a position of nobility, royalty, or religious importance were fortunate enough to possess a signet ring.

More often than not, the family crest would be engraved on the ring or some other unique design that would separate one man’s signet from another’s. These rings were so personal that, when the owner passed away, they were buried with them or destroyed, unlike other jewellery that would be passed down through the generations.

However, over time, the unique designs became more flamboyant and many royals would wear their signet rings as a sign of wealth and for fashion. This trend continued to develop into the wearing of the modern signet ring. There are plenty of mass-produced signet rings on the market today, but a small handful of jewellers still produce handmade, custom signet rings with personalised designs that are intended to be treasured across the generations.

Can Anyone Wear A Signet Ring?

The traditional signet ring was designed as a men’s piece, but back in the 1970s, many women jumped on the trend, and that’s something that’s stuck ever since. Many ladies choose a dainty signet ring in a variety of materials, including gold, silver, platinum, and rose gold.

How Do You Wear A Signet Ring?

One of the questions that has baffled signet ring wearers for decades is whether the ring should be worn with the crest facing towards you or away from you. In reality, there is an answer that defends both sides.

Many would agree that wearing the crest facing towards you symbolises your loyalty to your family. With the crest facing you, it serves as a continued reminder of any hardships or challenges your family has faced and come through the other side.

Flip it around, and some people think that it’s best to wear the ring with the crest facing outwards. This is a symbol for others to show the family to which you belong.

Of course, with modern jewellery, there’s really no right or wrong way to wear your signet ring, and it’s very much down to personal preference.

Which Finger Should You Wear A Signet Ring On?

As well as thinking about how the signet ring should be worn, there’s often a musing about which finger is the right one for a signet ring. Again, what really matters is personal choice, because your jewellery is a way to showcase your individual style.

But if we’re thinking about tradition, the signet ring should be worn on the pinky finger. The reason for this was that, back in the Middle Ages, when these rings were used for practical purposes, it was much easier to use them as seals when worn on the little finger.

If you look at modern royals or people in positions of authority, such as King Charles III, you’ll notice that they still wear their signet rings on the pinky finger.

How Much Does A Signet Ring Cost?

How much you pay for a signet ring depends on numerous factors. For example, if you’re buying a machine-made ring that is produced by the thousands, then you might not pay very much at all. On the other hand, if you’re having your signet ring custom-made by a professional jeweller, then the price will naturally be much higher.

It is also possible to buy a vintage or antique signet ring, which can be more valuable. These items are considered personal works of art and can cost thousands of pounds if owned by a famous person.

It’s also worth considering current gold prices, as they can affect the cost of a signet ring and the amount of metal used to make it.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to jewellery, the signet ring is one of the most traditional yet beautiful pieces you can own. While originally worn by men for signing documents, they’re now a staple in the jewellery boxes of people all over the world, available in an endless array of designs, traditionally personalised.

While it is possible to purchase a mass-produced signet ring for a relatively low price, the most valuable ones are custom-made and entirely unique. It’s an investment that will be treasured for generations to come.