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How to Identify Vintage Men's Signet Rings

Like a modern-day coat of arms, a signet ring displays an authority's initials, family crest or other regalia. Historically, signet rings were used to stamp a seal into a wax or clay tablet. Though some vintage signet rings sport engraved markings, modern rings tend to have their symbol or crest recessed into a small display plate. Today, signet rings may be issued to a graduating class by an academic institution or found at antique or consignment stores. You will need to examine your ring closely to determine if it is a vintage men's version.

Things You'll Need

Jeweler's loupe

Instructions

- 1
  Note the band around the ring. It should be free of any ornament or decoration. The band should be the same width all the way around the finger, or slope downward slightly from the top display plate. Men's signet rings make use of simple, straight lines in the band and display plate to convey masculinity.
- 2
  Inspect the engraving on the top display plate. Vintage rings will show a set of initials or a family crest, or an academic or government symbol. In authentic vintage signet rings, this engraving will be mirrored, or oriented backward, to ensure that the seal reads correctly when pressed into wax or clay.
- 3
  Peer through a jeweler's loupe at the engraving. Vintage signet rings formerly used for stamping seals may show traces of wax or clay in the crevices of the engraving.
- 4
  Check the ring for normal wear or tarnish. Unless the signet ring was stored well and kept in immaculate condition, slight scratching or discoloration from hand oils would suggest that the ring was worn regularly and may be considered vintage.
- 5
  Read through any paperwork accompanying the ring. If you have purchased the ring from a reputable antiques dealer or consignment store, you may have received paperwork that lists the original owner or manufacturer of the ring.

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