Signet rings have been worn for centuries. From Egyptian and Roman times to the modern day they have signified wealth and identity.
Egyptian Signet ring
Roman Signet ring
People of influence would have a ring to sign letters. In the 14th century King Edward II decreed that all official documents had to be signed with the kings signet ring. These personal items would often be destroyed after the persons death to avoid the possibility of forgeries appearing after the person died.
Edwardian Signet ring
In the 19th Century signet rings became more of a status symbol rather than a legal mark. Rings were often engraved with a family crest or the individuals initials.
Traditional Red Wax Seal
Wax can be melted onto the letter or document and the ring is pressed into the warm wax creating an impression of the engraved logo.
Modern Family crest