At a time, every individual of importance would have owned a signet ring. From the Italian Mafia to the Egyptian Pharaohs, they were once used as identification to legitimise documents, seal letters, and sign off death warrants. Now, they’ve become a staple accessory for any discerning gent - with no family crest required.
Alongside the classic chain and huggie earrings, the signet is an easy entry to the world of jewellery, designed with a masculine silhouette that will add a level of intrigue to any otherwise undecorated hand. Traditionally worn on the pinky, you can now choose whichever finger you prefer, but the best rule to remember is the larger the finger, the chunkier the ring.
When investing, always take note of the materials. Our top tip is to stick to prescious metals, like sterling silver and gold, for a ring that will stand the test of time. If you’re a fan of gold but not the price point, a happy medium is a ring crafted with sterling silver yet plated with gold vermeil, and if you’re concerned about durability, then look for platinum or rhodium for extra strength.
Whether you prefer a contemporary, sleek style, are partial to the 80s aesthetic, or are on the hunt for a personalised, engraved design for a thoughtful gift, all of the bases are covered with our edit below. Keep scrolling to find out for yourself.
Gold Signet Rings
Pawnshop Signature Stripe Signet Ring
Brimming with 80s appeal, Pawnshop’s 24kt gold vermeil plated sterling silver design is ideal for those who have a love for the vintage aesthetic. One of the brand’s signature pieces, it’s a modern day take on a classic.
Buy now £57.50, Pawnshop
Pi London 9kt Gold 1960’s Oval Check Signet Ring
A label that sources antique jewellery, each piece from Pi London is entirely unique. This design from the Sixties is crafted using solid gold, and features an unusual masculine debossed check that gives it an alternating look from different angles.
Buy now £480.00, Pi London
Miansi Thin Lennox Agate Ring Gold Vermeil
Slim, sleek and sophisticated, Miansi’s Lennox features a contemporary rectangular head that’s inset with a deep red agate stone, known for its calming and grounding effect. A ring that looks as though it could have been passed through the generations, it’s timelessly classic and perennially chic.
Buy now £165.00, Miansi
Missoma Engravable Octa Signet Ring
For high quality jewellery at an affordable price point, London-based label Missoma is the place to go. In a 18kt gold plated vermeil on sterling silver, this is a ring that will live in your collection for years to come. A contemporary geometric design, it stands out when compared with the traditional signet silhouette.
Buy now £85.00, Missoma
Monica Vinader Guiding Star Signet Ring
Perfect for those who enjoy the meaning behind their jewellery, Monica Vinader’s more delicate signet features a star that’s intended to guide and protect.
Hand crafted in 100 per cent recycled satin-finish gold vermeil, it’s a great entry level piece for a jewellery newbie.
Buy now £75.00, Monica Vinader
Silver Signet Rings
Tom Wood Cushion 9kt gold & sterling-silver ring
If a ring features a delicately curved pillow effect, chances are it’s from Norwegian label Tom Wood. Made using sterling silver that’s strengthened with white rhodium, this is certainly a piece that will last. As a chunky design, it would look best worn on the larger fingers as opposed to the pinky.
Buy now £340.00, MatchesFashion
Alighieri The False Promises Ring // MAN
Crafted in Hatton Garden, the jewellery quarter of London, you can count on Alighieri’s collections for superior design and quality. All of the label’s pieces, which are described as ‘modern heirlooms’, feature intricate, elevated details like this ring’s fingerprint-esque design, and are often recognisable thanks to their mottled, handcrafted appearance.
Buy now £169.00, End Clothing
Bleue Burnham Sapphire and sterling-silver signet ring
One for the fashion forward gents, Bleue Burnham’s collections tend to be more statement than understated, often featuring prescious stones and surreal or abstract details - and this ring is a case in point. Comprising of an abstract shape that’s inset with beautiful, colourful sapphires, it’s sure to garner the attention of any stylish individual.
Buy now £395.00, MatchesFashion
Maria Black Rock Signet Ring
Known for minimalist collections that have a personal feel, Maria Black’s designs are simple yet unique. Almost as if it has been carved from rock, this signet is a bold sculptural piece that’s perfect for the man who loves to make an accessory statement.
Buy now £287.00, Maria Black