Signet Rings – From Antiquity to Feminine Reinterpretations
Signet rings have accompanied humanity for thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, they were crafted from gold, gemstones and glass. Engraved with hieroglyphs or divine symbols, they served not only as ornaments but also as seals of authenticity and power, leaving impressions in clay or wax. In Rome, the art of intaglio engraving flourished – carving into stones such as carnelian, onyx, amethyst or jasper. A signet became a miniature work of art, with its imprint carrying both legal and symbolic weight.
What role did signet rings play in the past?
The Middle Ages elevated signet rings to the rank of insignia. Fashioned mainly from gold and silver, often decorated with enamel and family crests, they adorned the hands of kings, clergy and knights as symbols of authority. Every contract, letter or decree could be validated with a personal imprint of a signet.
The Renaissance and Baroque periods brought a true flourishing of jewelry craftsmanship. Signet rings were created with ever greater sophistication – alongside precious metals, artisans used platinum and rare gemstones, while engravings depicted mythological scenes or intricate ornaments. In the 18th and 19th centuries, signets acquired a more personal dimension – bearing initials, floral motifs or portraits, they became family keepsakes and sentimental tokens.
By the 20th century, the signet ring crossed the boundaries of aristocratic heritage and entered the world of fashion. Still made of gold or silver, it was increasingly combined with semi-precious stones, glass and even ceramics. This was also the era when women began wearing signet rings more widely – not only as heirlooms, but as symbols of independence and individual style.
On which fingers were signet rings worn?
Traditionally, signet rings were most often worn on the little finger of the right hand – a custom that remained popular in Europe from the Middle Ages through the 20th century. In certain families, the signet was worn on the ring finger or the index finger, especially when used as a functional seal. In England, aristocrats preferred the little finger of the left hand – a tradition that continues today. Modern women wear signet rings on different fingers, choosing the one that best complements the shape of the hand and expresses their personal style.
The modern face of signet rings
Today, signet rings in their feminine form have acquired a new identity. No longer limited to family heritage or symbols of power, they embody jewelry that balances subtle lines with the strength of natural stones. The contemporary signet is personal, elegant and timeless.
Kamena Signet Rings
At Kamena, we reinterpret this tradition with sterling silver 925 and natural stones sourced in Poland. Iridescent opal, the deep green of nephrite, the painterly pattern of Picasso dolomite, the cool tones of rodingite, the freshness of chrysoprase and the warm hues of chocolate flint – each gemstone brings its own story, making every ring one of a kind.
These are not just accessories, but pieces of jewelry for women who seek more than decoration. Kamena signet rings stand out in everyday wear and highlight individuality and elegance on special occasions. Crafted in our Polish workshop, they preserve the authenticity of minerals and become a personal emblem you can carry with you always.
