A Signet ring refers to one of the oldest jewelry styles that was made for men. It was traditionally made for the British man during the Victorian times, and it was traditionally made to be worn on the left-hand pinky finger.
The signet ring is often adorned with the wearer’s initials, monogram, or a special seal, which is the case because the signet ring was used to stamp and sign off on official documents officially.
In Ancient Egypt, for example, the queens and the Pharaohs wore signet rings to sign off on important documents, and the signet rings all feature distinct personal signatures, way before personal signatures became a real thing.
Signet rings are still stylish today, and though they are not used as seals, some feature family crests or other personal signatures and insignias.
And if you love the idea of these bold signet rings and like to wear them well, the signet rings could be the best option for you, and you only need to know how to wear the rings correctly.
How to wear a signet ring with a wedding ring
1. Wear the signet ring on the right finger
Historically, men and women wore the signet ring on the pinky finger or the index finger.
But then, how you wear the ring will carry different meanings beyond representing the social cord and signifying the wearer’s social standing.
In general, the ring finger can be worn on any finger, and each of the fingers has a special meaning.
- A signet ring on the thumb represents a great feel of sensuality.
- A signet ring worn on the forefinger or the index finger represents agility.
- The ring on the middle finger represents someone confident in their appearance, and it may also signify a positive/ good temperament.
And on the ring finger, the signet ring would be considered a wedding ring, which is also why most people avoid wearing the ring on the ring finger since this finger is reserved for wedding rings.
2. Meaning of the signet ring
Today, however, the signet ring is a status symbol that takes on different other meanings, most of which vary from one generation to the next.
For most people, the signet ring offers an excellent way of commemorating one’s family history and a meaningful life event.
It is also a great piece of jewelry that makes one of the best family heirlooms passed down from one generation to the next.
And as a result, the signet rings make excellent gifts for special events and loved ones’ graduations, weddings, and birthdays.
3. Consider the shape of the signet ring
The other important thing you need to bear in mind when choosing and wearing a signet ring is the shape of the ring.
At the of the day, the shape of the signet ring influences your style preferences, and also, the stone incorporated in the ring will affect its meaning.
Some signet rings are worn as birthstone rings, and the meaning of that ring will differ depending on the birthstone and its meaning in crystal mythology.
Diamonds, for example, symbolize strength, while emeralds are a symbol of new beginnings. While the classic signet ring is oval and worn on the pinky finger, other signer rings are chunkier and much heavier, and also they are much straight than they are oval, so they can be worn on the ring finger and the pinky finger.
The rounded signet ring has a softer look and is ideal for the index finger. The octagon-shaped signet rings, on the other hand, are more expressive, fun, and unconventional, and the ring looks great on the index or middle finger.
Take note of the fact that the shape of the ring may or may not work for you depending on the length and the width of your fingers. And so, even the most elegant style of signet rings may not work for you if it doesn’t complement the shape of your fingers and your hands.
4. Best signet ring to wear on your index finger
The round-shaped signet ring, with or without a family crest ring, is ideally worn on the index finger.
Because the signet ring worn on the index finger is quite expressive and makes a strong statement, it works great for you if you are going for a bold statement look.
However, if you prefer a subtle look, you may want to wear the ring on a different finger.
5. Dominant or Non-Dominant Hand?
Generally, you wear the signet ring on the non-dominant hand, either on the left or the right pinky finger.
The ring is usually worn on the left hand but on a different finger to avoid wearing two rings at once.
In some parts of the world, like the Netherlands, it is customary to wear the ring on the right hand.
6. Color of the signet ring
In addition to the multiple ring styles, shapes, and sizes, the signet rings are available in different colors, with the most popular colors being the blue lapis lazuli signet rings, the black onyx, and the bloodstone signet rings.
Note that the color bloodstone refers to the dark green color that features red inclusions. Other signet rings are available in carnelian or dark red.
The color of the signet ring notwithstanding, it’s important to buy a signet ring that you can easily color-coordinate, and this is why most people opt for black signet rings.
7. Preferred ring style
The other important consideration to bear in mind when choosing and wearing a signet ring would be the shape of the ring and how that ring comes off as.
For an elegant look, opt for the rounded, traditional-style signet ring; a square, heavy, oxford signet ring works well for a contemporary, bold look.
The straight oval signet ring is a common simple style because it’s easily engraved, and you can wear it with anything. And for bold signer things, the cushion, octagon, and bulbous oval signet rings would be ideal for you.
The direction of the engraving
You can wear your signet ring in two ways, with the crest or engraved details facing towards you with the engraving turned down or away from you so that the engraving is turned upwards.
The ring can be worn in either direction, depending on your style preferences. When used as a seal, the engraving would have to be turned around to face out for ease of use.
Conclusion
The signet ring is an important accessory that boasts an elegant but traditional feel and look. And because most people wear the signet ring as an accessory rather than a stamp, you get to wear the signet ring however you’d like and on whatever finger that feels right to you.
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Stephanie is a jewelry lover when she was a teenager. Her major was fashion design when she was in college. She is a jewelry designer at SOQ Jewelry and other design companies. Now she is also a writer for our website. She writes a lot of designs&brands posts with very actionable tips.