Signet Rings: A Unique Gift for Father's Day

If you are searching for a unique Father's day gift this year, something really special, then why not consider a signet ring? These beautiful, characterful objects are steeped in tradition, and yet are enjoying something of a resurgence in modern men's fashion.

Historically, signet rings were used as a seal of authentication for high status individuals, and played a crucial role in business, politics and society.

Seals of authentication - created from the method of inscribing a mirror image onto a hard surface - were used as far back as Ancient Mesopotamia 3500 BC. Signet rings are even mentioned in The Old Testament,

"And the Stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the King sealed it with his own signet."
(Daniel 6:17)

Their use proliferated throughout the Ancient world, became a permanent fixture of social status in the middle ages, and later enjoyed prominence in the Georgian and Victorian eras. In contemporary fashion, they are still prized for their unique historical and aesthetic value.

Here at Grays we have hand picked a stunning selection of signet rings from different eras, including some that aren't inscribed and are suitable for personalised engraving.

Ancient Roman ring dating from the 3rd century AD, silver with carnelian intaglio of clasped hand. Available at Ancient Jewellery.

Victorian amethyst and 18ct gold intaglio ring. Depicting a rearing horse with a monogram underneath. Available from The Antique Jewellery Company



Victorian bloodstone and 18ct gold shield shaped signet ring. Available from The Antique Jewellery Company

 Rare Art Deco engraved sapphire signet ring, depicting a stag's head crest. Signed Boucheron Paris, and dated 1930  Available from Havlik Fine Jewels



Top to bottom: Victorian 18ct gold  ring; Victorian carnelian on 18ct gold ring.
Both are part of a selection of plain signets available from Leila in the Mews and suitable for engraving. Visit Bennett and O'Connell Engravers for engraving enquiries.


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