What is a Signet Ring?

What Is a Signet Ring? The Story Behind the Statement

Signet rings are steeped in tradition — worn by royals, nobles, and influential families for centuries. But in recent years, this once-formal symbol has become a powerful fashion statement, blending heritage with personal style.

Whether worn on the pinky or boldly on the index finger, signet rings have found a fresh place in contemporary jewellery. But what exactly is a signet ring, and why is it making a comeback?

A Brief History of the Signet Ring

The term “signet” comes from the Latin signum, meaning sign or mark. Historically, signet rings were used as personal seals — pressed into hot wax to sign documents with a unique family crest or emblem. These rings carried authority, authenticity, and legacy.

Some of the earliest examples date back to Ancient Egypt, with Pharaohs using them as seals of power. In medieval Europe, they evolved into a symbol of nobility, passed down through generations.

For centuries, to possess a signet ring was to possess status.

Traditional Design Features

Classic signet rings are easily recognisable by their:

• Flat or slightly domed top surface, often engraved with initials, monograms, or family crests

• Bold, masculine silhouette typically wider than standard bands

• Gold construction, often 9k or 18k yellow gold, though platinum and silver variants exist

The flat top is the canvas — traditionally engraved using intaglio (an engraving technique where the design is carved into the surface). While originally functional, today this area is a place for personal expression.

Who Wears Signet Rings Today?

While historically reserved for men of status, modern signet rings are genderless and versatile. Today, people wear them to represent:

• Heritage and family history

• Personal milestones such as weddings or achievements

• Modern fashion, with clean, bold lines suiting both minimalists and maximalists

At Diamond Lab, we often design signet rings for grooms, milestone birthdays, or as generational gifts. They’re no longer tied to old hierarchies — they’re about creating personal legacy.

Popular Signet Styles in Australia

Modern Australian clients are drawn to clean, refined forms that still carry meaning. Popular choices include:

• Initial Signet Rings: Custom engraved with one or two letters — popular as wedding gifts or self-commemorations

• Minimalist Oval or Cushion Shapes: A nod to tradition, but without ornate detailing

• Stone Inlay Signets: With black onyx, lapis lazuli, or even lab-grown diamonds for a modern twist

• Chunky Gold Rings: A statement piece worn as a pinky ring or middle finger ring

Explore more of our handcrafted styles in the Custom Jewellery Collection.

Can a Signet Ring Be a Wedding Ring?

Yes — and increasingly so. For clients looking for something unique, we often craft signet-style wedding bands. These may feature the couple’s initials, a meaningful symbol, or a minimalist flat-top design with a custom polish or brushed finish.

It’s a timeless way to blend tradition with your own narrative.

How to Wear a Signet Ring

There are no strict rules anymore, but here are a few classic approaches:

• Pinky Finger (Left or Right): The most traditional location, symbolising discretion and legacy

• Index or Middle Finger: A bolder fashion-forward look

• Stacked With Other Bands: When crafted in slimmer form, they can complement other rings or wedding bands

💡 Styling tip: Match the metal tone of your signet with your watch, chain, or wedding band for a cohesive aesthetic.

Custom Engraving Ideas

The engraving is where your story lives. Clients often request:

• Couple’s initials or shared monograms

• Wedding dates, coordinates, or star signs

• Symbols (lions, family shields, hearts, trees)

• Artistic etching or abstract patterns

Engraving transforms a beautiful ring into something deeply personal.

Final Thought

Signet rings may be ancient in origin, but they’re modern in spirit. Whether you wear one as a nod to your heritage, a marker of achievement, or simply as a bold fashion choice, the signet ring is timeless — and entirely yours to define.

At Diamond Lab, we honour this tradition with modern craftsmanship. Our bespoke signet rings can be fully personalised, making them perfect for weddings, anniversaries, or generational gifts.

Let us help you create a piece that tells your story — and one day, becomes part of someone else’s.