Signet Rings have been trending in women's jewelry for the past several years, from antique signets with engraved monograms to intaglio and seal versions with motifs and sayings that are meaningful to the wearer. (See my signet ring story). Although they were originally men's ring throughout history—the seal versions serving as signatures for noblemen and eventually represented hobbies and careers for the masses—signets developed a bad rep in the mid 20th century onward. Films and television series from the later 20th century through the millennium featured them prominently on the pinky fingers of mobsters—from The Godfather trilogy to the hit HBO series The Sopranos and movies like Casino and Goodfellas in between. But as jewelry becomes more creative and symbolic for men—signets represent guys with individual style and make perfect gifts for dads who are not afraid to express themselves or who compare themselves to say, Brad Pitt instead of Tony Soprano.
Kim Dunham's Large Brutus Eye Ring is hand-made in 22k yellow gold, with relief work surrounding the center stone which is onyx. This is a gem that is said to release feelings of stress and anxiety, and empowers the wearer to face ones fears. It looks equally well on the ring or pinky finger depending on your dad's hands. Dunham also creates one-0f-kind signets in every shape imaginable based on collaborating with her clients. This particular ring is a popular one and can be engraved on the inside.
Andrea Fohrman's new collection of men's rings features different gemstones that have a celestial or planetary feel to work with her aesthetic. Her 18K gold Apollo signet ring reminds one of the dark evening sky—mysterious and intriguing in rutilated quartz, black onyx, black diamond and white diamond. It's one of the newer types of signets that features an alluring stone rather a motif or monogram.
