Spotlight on Signet Rings
We're making no secret of the fact that we're enamoured with signet rings. A design with a long history throughout civilisation, our gallery is full with a selection of artist made signets to cover all tastes.
Beginning in ancient Mesopotamia as far back as 3500BC, the signet ring is synonymous with status, nobility and authenticity. Signets are usually noted for their flat bezel, often with a tapered band. The flat surface carries markings and designs which have been carved, engraved, or pressed into the surface, which is known as 'intaglio', and are often set with precious gemstones such as diamonds and sapphires.
Originally engraved with a family crest or iconography unique to their owner, they were used to seal official documents and letters. This was achieved by pressing the face of the ring into hot wax, thereby creating an impression of the design. With each signet ring elaborately carved with personalised details that were impossible to replicate, a signet seal was considered more authentic than a signature.
The Ancient Egyptians began the tradition of wearing signet rings on the pinky finger of the non-dominant hand, which the Romans continued, but these days any finger is deemed acceptable.
For a long time in modern society, they have been viewed as a family heirloom, designed to be passed down through generations. Why not chat to us about creating a bespoke commission for a custom design from one of our artists, to become your family's next treasured heirloom piece?
Our designers are proving that there are plenty of ways to get creative and customise a signet ring to mark your special history, and many of our clients are turning to this unisex, accessible style. Wear them as a wedding ring, to signify milestone birthdays, or simply because you love their form!
Scroll down to see some of our favourites.
Clean and contemporary: Ele Misko and Anna Marrone
Colourful exuberance: Seb Brown is renowned for his love of signet rings
Oxidised and imprinted with ghostly apparitions: Suzi Zutic
Celebrating clean lines, geometry and negative space: Melanie Katsalidis explores her signature hexagon shapes
Rich with ancient spiritual symbology: Emma Homfray and Tara Lofhelm
Textural and studded with diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds: Katherine Bowman
