# Signet rings: history, engraving and how to wear them

> A signet ring carries an engraved crest, initials or emblem, and was used to seal documents in wax; history, types of engraving, materials and how to wear one.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/signet-rings/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-07-29
- Updated: 2026-07-29
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/anillos-de-sello/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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A signet ring is a ring with a flat, engraved face, which was once used to sign documents by pressing it into hot wax. Today it is a classic jewel with initials or a family crest.

## Origin

Seals were used in Mesopotamia and Egypt to authenticate documents. In Rome and the Middle Ages, the signet ring was a symbol of authority and identity. Even today it is associated with noble families, universities and schools.

## The engraving

It is engraved **in intaglio** (the design is reversed so that the seal prints the right way round) or **in relief**. It can carry a crest, a monogram, initials, an animal or a symbol. It is carved by hand or with a laser.

## Materials and shapes

It is usually [gold](https://www.711grados.com/en/gold/) of 14 or 18 karats (see [14 or 18 karat](https://www.711grados.com/en/14k-vs-18k-gold/)) or [silver](https://www.711grados.com/en/silver/). The face can be oval, round, square or cushion-shaped. It is often combined with a plain stone such as onyx or carnelian.

## How to wear it

Traditionally it is worn on the little finger of the non-dominant hand, but today it is worn on any finger. To choose the size, see [how to find your ring size](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-find-your-ring-size/).

## See also

- [Seals in jewelry: Mesopotamian cylinders, scarabs and intaglios](https://www.711grados.com/en/seals-in-jewelry/)
- [Ring](https://www.711grados.com/en/ring/)
- [Wedding rings: types, widths, metals and how to choose](https://www.711grados.com/en/wedding-rings/)
- [14 karat or 18 karat gold: differences and which to choose](https://www.711grados.com/en/14k-vs-18k-gold/)