On trend: massive rings, statement
The first seal-type rings
Around 3500 BC, in ancient Egypt, pharaohs and nobles wore stone or ceramic signet rings, decorated with symbols denoting power, but also with elements of art. The Minoan civilization created ivory signet rings, and later, during the Bronze Age, the transition was made to metal rings as we know them today.
In the Middle Ages, every man of influence had a signet ring engraved with his monogram or family crest. And even though these are very beautiful pieces of jewelry, they originally had a practical purpose. They were used by the nobility to seal documents (hot wax was used) or to sign all letters and legal documents (ink was used).
Having a signet ring during that time marked you as a member of the highest class, above other ordinary people. In the 14th century, King Edward II decreed that all official documents be signed with his signet ring.
In medieval times, not only kings, but also members of the nobility and clergy wore these rings. Throughout the Renaissance and into the 19th century, signet rings became the ultimate sign of elitism and wealth for merchants, doctors and lawyers. At the time, these jewels were very heavy and masculine, made in a robust form to withstand wear and tear - they were regularly used to sign documents, and there was also a tradition of them being passed down from generation to generation.
Precious and semi-precious stones were added to them in the 19th century. The practice of carving the seal in precious stones brought color to this type of ring, with the most popular stones introduced into the design being ruby, amethyst and garnet.
As time passed, the signet ring broke free from the supposed boundaries of class and gender. By the end of the 19th century, men of all social classes had begun to wear it. And women began to love it, a significant moment being the year 1988, when this model was worn by Princess Diana.
Seal ring today
After a long history of being a sign of power, the signet ring is worn today by women and men who like classic and timeless jewelry. It's a bold piece of jewelry that keeps the look simple yet sophisticated at the same time. In addition to royalty who are rarely seen without this ring (eg Prince Charles), celebrities such as Chris Noth, Johnny Depp, Kate Moss and Kristen Stewart are fans of the model.
Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Valentino and Fendi are some of the luxury fashion houses that have reinterpreted the traditional signet ring in their vision.
Corporations and organizations turn to signet rings to identify members' affiliations, and Freemasons, universities, and even biker gangs have their own designs. Also, some military figures wear the ring as a sign of their rank.
How to wear a signet ring
Traditionally, it is worn on the little finger of the left hand (or right hand if you are left-handed). However, the rules are a little more relaxed these days, you can wear your signet ring on the little or ring finger of either hand. You can match it with other jewelry, including other rings, bracelets, cufflinks or watches (it is recommended to match the metals with each other).
Cherished by both men and women, large enough to be considered statement jewelry yet practical for everyday wear, the signet ring is the perfect accessory for your everyday wardrobe.
At Moogu we can beautifully engrave your initials on your ring or you can choose for you and your partner to wear each other's initials on your finger. Today, more and more people choose the signet ring rather than the wedding ring. As models of engagement rings, we also offer massive rings, but this time those with stones (diamonds, sapphires, rubies or other precious stones) that can be integrated into custom designs.
