Rings

Signet rings have been around since ancient times. Kings, nobles and merchants used them both as personal adornments and to carry out financial transactions. Instead of signing an official document, they would press their distinctive signet ring into clay or wax to give their authorization. For this reason, a man’s signet ring was one of his most precious possessions, and was guarded very carefully.

Over the centuries, powerful and influential men have continued to use them as a status symbol. Many presidents, famous actors and members of British royalty are well known for this detail. Has the time of the signet ring come and gone? Far from it! Many gentlemen keep this rich historical tradition alive in their wardrobe. Mark and Graham’s men’s rings come in different styles and shapes, but all are the embodiment of elegance. If you’re trying to decide if an accent ring is perfect your personal style, check out a few reasons why rocking one is so awesome.

OK, so it’s true that today signet rings aren’t legally-binding instruments for effecting contracts, but their luxurious vibe hasn’t changed one bit. Wearing one gives you a distinguished air that people notice. As a matter of fact, it’s usually the first they ask you about when meeting for the first time. Your sophisticated manner of dress – and confident personality – makes them feel naturally inclined toward you with regard. That goes whether you’re conversing with a job interviewer or making reservations for an exclusive restaurant.

While you might not use your signet ring for official transactions, it has the power to add weight and style to personal correspondence. Sending a special missive to your special someone, maybe to invite them out on for a romantic evening? Compose a hand-written letter on monogrammed stationery and place your flowing signature at the end. After folding the paper and sliding it into a clean white envelope, write or print its recipient’s first name on the front in an elegant font. Finally, use brightly-coloured wax and your seal or signet ring to leave her breathless. You can bet that the object of your affection will treasure everything – letter, envelope and seal – for a long time.

Our signet rings feature an engraved monogram. Some options highlight a single attention-grabbing initial, while others present your entire name. The customary design for formal rings and other jewellery is to place the initial for you first name at the beginning, followed by the first letter of your surname. The middle initial is generally placed last.

The font you choose reflects a lot about your personality. If you’re a forward-looking visionary who loves to be on the cutting-edge of technology, pick out a minimalist style like Helvetica or Typewriter with brackets. For a touch of art and romance rooted in the 1920s and 1930s, look for gentle curves that aren’t too extravagant. And if extravagant defines you? There are designs that highlight luxury to the nines, with brilliant capitals and sweeping contours.

When deciding on the right size for your hand, first you need to select which finger you prefer to wear the ring on. In some cultures, it’s common to use the pinkie finger of your non-dominant hand to proudly display a signet. But there aren’t any etiquette rules in this respect, so feel free to choose whatever finger and hand that makes you feel most confident.

Whether to opt for silver or gold also depends on your personal preference. Gold is bright, exciting, lustrous and energetic. It’s a good fit for effusive and enthusiastic clothing styles. Silver is more thoughtful and collected. It has a cool feel that goes especially well with deep blue, purple and neutral tones. The only style guideline that’s usually agreed upon – although there are exceptions – is that matching metals look very elegant together. Tie clips, cufflinks, rings and watches feel very harmonious when all crafted from the same metal, whether gold, silver, platinum or another.